Introducing the New Ricardo Marriott and House of Toro in Westlake

Designed by famed Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, Solana Office Park and Plaza have long been the front door to Westlake. Nearing its fourth decade, the Marriott Hotel has been reimagined, debuting as the Ricardo Marriott. A new chophouse, House of Toro Chophouse & Patio, and its caviar lounge, The Black Pearl, are ready to welcome you to dine. Here’s the scoop on the new Ricardo Marriott and its signature restaurant House of Toro.

The master plan of this 1800-acre campus (circa 1987) predates all of the development that has sprung up around it in the past nearly 40 years. Southlake Town Square, for instance, didn’t arrive until nearly 20 years later, in 2006. Solana originally served as a corporate campus for IBM.

Now, after a multi-million dollar revamp, Marriott elevates its prized property once more.

Ricardo Legorreta’s Signature Style

Ricardo Legorreta designed the campus with his signature architectural details. The striking, brightly hued vertical elements, angled edges, and layers of geometric shapes cast dramatic shadows. Legorreta is also responsible for the redesign of Fort Worth’s Museum of Science and History. You can see the similarities.

Likewise, the hotel’s guest suites and communal spaces highlight the unique architecture. This is a completely refreshed, modern take on its interior design.

The hotel’s signature dining at House of Toro is also inspired by the bold architecture of Ricardo Legorreta. “House of Toro is a sophisticated yet moody space that reflects his signature bold geometric forms, vibrant use of color, and masterful play of light,” according to a release.

Inside Ricardo Marriott’s Modern Updates

Following its multimillion-dollar renovation, the newly dubbed Ricardo Marriott feels fresh and modern, while embracing its elegant architecture.

It has 293 rooms and suites ― many of which include private balconies. Each room is layered with fabrics and dramatic brown and cream herringbone carpet. Many have blonde wood headboards that reflect Ricardo Legorreta’s dramatic use of square, stacked windows.

Solana Kitchen + Lounge is a bright and open space topped by a dramatic golden oculus. It serves as the hotel’s great room with three meals daily. And a grab-and-go Café31 serves fresh pastries with Lavazza coffee.

The hotel also boasts more than 15,000 square feet of updated meeting and event space, along with outdoor elements and a new-and-improved pool.

House of Toro Makes a Statement

Coury Hospitality is pleased to announce the opening of House of Toro, the signature chophouse at the newly debuted Ricardo Marriott. It’s a “Latin-inspired take on the traditional steakhouse, with a menu centered on premium cuts, elevated dishes, and a thoughtfully curated wine program,” they say.

Located just beyond the dining room is the Black Pearl Lounge. It features “tableside caviar service, hand-cut beef tartare, premium spirits, curated wines, and seasonal cocktails.”

Led by Chef de Cuisine Nate Sanders, the menu at House of Toro is built around the grill and inspired by Latin traditions. Sanders’ experience includes the openings of Carbone in Dallas and Trick Rider in Frisco.

House of Toro features a darker, moodier palette than the rest of the property. There is an outdoor patio that will be utilized for “events and entertainment programming, including curated wine dinners and pairing classes throughout the year.”

On The Menu at House of Toro

Standout offerings include Lobster Cargot, a Maine lobster tail cooked in garlic herb butter, broiled with Havarti. And the Toro Wedge Salad is made with Valdeon blue cheese imported from Spain, Jamón Serrano, Marcona almonds, and cherry tomatoes.

The menu also features a USDA Prime 36-ounce porterhouse served with a choice of two sides, including patatas bravas and charred caulilini (cauliflower broccolini). Other items feature fresh seafood dishes plus an Ibérico pork chop with sherry lacquer.

Latin flair continues on House of Toro’s beverage program. The Blood Orange Margarita is made with fresh citrus and a hint of Campari. While the Matador Old-Fashioned is all about rich bourbon and black walnut bitters. A spicy El Diablo is crafted from tequila, crème de cassis, fresh lime juice, and ginger beer. Plus, a curated wine list has been hand-selected to complement the menu’s flavors.

Solana made a statement when it was first on the scene in the up-and-coming Westlake community. Now, nearly 40 years later, with its new Ricardo Marriott and signature dining at the House of Toro, it is as relevant as ever.