Dare we say, you might be tempted to draw parallels between South Congress Avenue and LA. But this Texan strip of land is undoubtedly distinct, exuding its own brand of charm.

We're here for the top-end retail and understated lodgings.

Tucked discreetly from the main road, is Hotel San José. Flanked by its sibling establishments, Hotel Saint Cecilia and Austin Motel, the hotel positions you within walking distance of Austin's prime attractions. Not least among them is the Congress Avenue Bridge, an excellent vantage point to marvel at North America's largest bat colony.

Hotel San José is the first hotel instituted by the Bunkhouse hospitality group, founded by the inimitably stylish Liz Lambert.

Resurrected from its origins as a 1930s roadside inn, Lambert has reimagined it into a chic abode full of local character. The property is embraced by creeping fig vines adorning stucco walls, with granite-traced walkways guiding guests to their rooms.

And the pièce de résistance? The elegant black bamboo screen in the alfresco lounge. It unveils a small, secluded pool.

Guests can choose from seven different room types, from European-style Shared Baths to more spacious Courtyard Suites with private balconies. They're all minimalist, with concrete flooring and reclaimed Texas pine furniture. Inside, amenities include custom-made linens, colorful kimonos, Malin + Goetz toiletries, and a curated mini-bar.

The property teems with nostalgic touches. A lending library offers a vintage collection of CDs and DVDs (now delightfully archaic), and for the literary romantics, an age-old typewriter stands ready to be borrowed, awaiting tales yet to be typed.