Today’s Hospitality Brief

Hospitality Highlights

The Talbott in Chicago reopens after a complete renovation and joins Marriott's Autograph Collection.
Meyer Jabara Hotels takes over management at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Northwest/Oldsmar after recent renovations.
Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki becomes the first Tapestry Collection by Hilton property in Hawaii

1. Hotel Renovations

Historic Renovation and New Identity for The Talbott in Chicago

The Talbott, a revered landmark in Chicago's Gold Coast, has completed a full-scale renovation and now joins Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection — a curated portfolio of over 330 unique hotels worldwide. This milestone redefines the hotel’s legacy, blending timeless elegance with modern personality.

The transformation involved reimagining all 178 guestrooms, public spaces and event areas, creating a cohesive design featuring warm textures and local references. In collaboration with Studio 11 Design, the decor interprets historic elegance through a rich palette of caramel, gold and antique white with curated artworks.

Renovation includes:
- 178 guestrooms
- Public spaces
- Event areas
New offerings:
- Art collaboration with Nicole Cicak
- New restaurant "LAUREL"
- Gallery Room for social gatherings

The renovation emphasizes local artistry and authentic storytelling, creating a boutique experience that honors the city's rich architectural and cultural heritage. The hotel now offers a blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury for Chicago visitors and locals alike.

2. Rebrands and Management

Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki Joins Tapestry Collection by Hilton

The iconic Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki has become the first Tapestry Collection property in Hawaii, operated by Highgate. Located at Waikiki's gateway, the hotel combines local charm with Hilton’s signature brand, emphasizing a deep connection to the community.

With a renovated mid-century design, the hotel features 368 rooms, including unique lofted bunks and suites. Their "This Is How We Waikiki" approach reflects a guest-first philosophy through personalized service and local cultural integration.

The hotel offers exclusive amenities such as the Waikiki Swim & Social Club, a retro-inspired pool with private cabanas, weekly poolside classes and community stewardship initiatives. Its onsite dining spot, Favorite Son, serves island-inspired comfort foods along with daily happy hours featuring craft cocktails and live entertainment.

Hotel rooms: 368
Design: Mid-century modern
Amenities: Pool, fitness center, beach rentals
Partnership: Operator Highgate

Management Change at Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Northwest/Oldsmar

Meyer Jabara Hotels has officially taken over the management of the 87-room Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Northwest/Oldsmar. Located just 13 miles from Tampa International Airport, the hotel features amenities like an outdoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center and multiple dining options for both leisure and business guests.

The property recently underwent a comprehensive renovation of its guestrooms and public spaces, positioning it for strong performance in a recovering Tampa market.

Owner Rogatien Krecek, who purchased the hotel 1.5 years ago, noted a quick turnaround shortly after Meyer Jabara's management began with noticeable improvements in employee morale, accounts receivable, occupancy and ADR.

Location: 13 miles from Tampa Airport
Hotel features: outdoor pool, fitness center, conference space
Renovation: guestrooms and public spaces upgraded
Owner: Rogatien Krecek, purchased 1.5 years ago

Asymondly, the hotel’s strategic position in Tampa — a top-performing market with great beaches and vibrant downtown — strengthens Meyer Jabara Hotels’ expanding Southeast portfolio.

The company emphasizes a family-focused and brand-supportive management approach within the Hilton system, aiming for continued success in the region.