At 1,002 rooms, this is North America’s largest member of Marriot’s luxury JW brand. What with all the people hustling off to meetings or schmoozing on the lower-level floors, it’s not exactly serene. Nevertheless, the hotel doesn’t feel sterile—partly because the staff prides itself on catering to individual needs (even with so many individuals to cater to), and partly because of its organic design aesthetic. Subtle allusions to Texas’ natural history are sprinkled throughout, and the earth-toned decor is enlivened with plants and other touches of color in the downstairs public areas. In the rooms, headboards resemble tufted leather and bathrooms have distinctive shell light fixtures. The hotel doesn’t just pay lip service to nature: This is one of the most eco-friendly properties in town. There’s an excellent full-service spa and well-equipped exercise room, but this JW really outdid itself with the Edge rooftop pool, which has the shape of Texas outlined on the bottom; it’s flanked by curtained cabanas, cushioned banquettes surrounding fire pits, and, of course, a fully-stocked bar. Of the many top-notch food concessions, standouts are the indoor/outdoor Corner restaurant, drawing locals to its farm-to-table Texas fare and people-watching patio overlooking Congress Avenue; and the Burger Bar, which adds shakes, breakfast tacos, fries, and other comfort food to its array of gourmet patties.