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The Concierge

Jessica Silvaggio
Hotel Contessa
San Antonio, Texas

What service can you provide to groups that they normally might not receive?

As a member of guest services for Hotel Contessa, I provide each guest with a level of service that goes beyond expectations. Our sales and marketing team can provide groups with other accommodations. The hotel also boasts a conference concierge to help specifically with meetings. Need audiovisual help, copy machines, activities? No need to go hunting for these items on your own, the on-site meeting expert provides this assistance.

What are your group restaurant recommendations?
Hotel Contessa’s Spanish-inspired Las Ramblas restaurant features Spanish entrees and tapas and a lovely wine list. Patrons can dine indoors at the warmly-lit river-level restaurant or on the waterfront patio. Off-site—but close by on the River Walk—are many wonderful and unique dining options. Boudros is a Texas bistro featuring local delicacies, including many Southwestern-inspired dishes. Biga on the Banks is a fine-dining establishment with an always-changing, seasonally inspired menu. For steaks, don’t miss Bohanan’s Prime Steaks & Seafood. If seafood is more your thing, Pesca on the River features wild—not farmed—fresh seafood. Fig Tree is an elegant, European-inspired restaurant in the restored village of La Villita, and Azuca is a Nuevo Latin restaurant—a fusion of Cuban, Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.

What are your bar or nightclub recommendations?
My bar/nightclub recommendations include Howl at the Moon for kitschy sing-a-longs and dueling pianos; Zinc is a sophisticated wine bar; Suede is a trendy club scene; Swig serves posh martinis; Medusa Lounge is part art gallery, part bar, and is known for great drinks and a hip scene; and Blue Star Brewery pours local handmade brews.

Can you recommend a good place to take a stroll?
The beautiful San Antonio River Walk is the ideal place for a leisurely stroll. Hotel Contessa is located on a serene and less-touristy bend of the legendary River Walk and benches dot the walkway. Guests can also take a stroll to more-populated areas where there is always something to see.

Are there any quirky places we should check out?
Cypress Cove is both quirky and fun, featuring local bands, a car wash, laundry service, and an outdoor playground. Also, Limelight is a great bar that showcases music ranging from punk to rockabilly.

If we only have an hour or two, what should we definitely check out nearby?
One should definitely check out the River Walk, which is not only scenic, but offers a variety of restaurants. For a true Texas experience, you can’t miss the Alamo! Also, Market Square is a must-see, paying homage to authentic Mexican mercados. Next, if time allows, check out Southtown. Often overlooked, Southtown is as bohemian as San Antonio can get! The arts district features local artists, bars and restaurants, minus the hustle and bustle of the River Walk.

What is an unusual request you’ve had from a group?
Bachelor/bachelorette groups usually have the most interesting requests! But at one meeting, one of the attendees wanted the conference concierge to find a toy bazooka that shoots out t-shirts and prizes like the ones you see at sporting events.

A party of 12 wants to have dinner right away. What restaurant can accommodate last-minute requests of this size?
Las Ramblas is always quick to accommodate our guests. But depending on the night and/or what type of food is desired, I recommend Acenar, Bohanan’s or Ruth’s Chris.

What’s a unique event that has taken place at your property?
During Fiesta—a 10-day annual event that celebrates San Antonio and its rich culture—groups will book meeting rooms to literally party with us!