Hotel Stays: Rosewood São Paulo

Having stayed at a number of Rosewood properties, it’s safe to say I’m a fan of the brand. Each Rosewood hotel or resort has its own personality but consistently upholds the high standards of a luxury hospitality group.

The Rosewood São Paulo is no exception—yet it’s also exceptional. It’s a place to immerse yourself without worrying about being in the spotlight.

Privacy is a top priority, evident from the level of security and discretion around the property. During my stay, celebrities (both American and Brazilian) graced the premises, but you wouldn’t know unless you looked closely. Even taking photos in the lobby at 6 a.m. required coordination with the marketing team to avoid an impromptu scolding from security. The extent of this commitment to guest privacy is rare, even among top-tier luxury hotels.

Centrally located near Avenida Paulista, one of the major thoroughfares in the city, the Rosewood São Paulo blends seamlessly with the Cidade Matarazzo, a historic complex from the early 20th century that is being repurposed into a high-end hub for art, music, and hospitality. The hotel anchors this vibrant area, which features preserved buildings transformed into residences, high-end boutiques, and entertainment venues.

Occupying the iconic Matarazzo Maternity hospital and a stunning vertical garden tower, the Rosewood São Paulo is as much an architectural marvel as it is a retreat. This impressive garden tower, designed by renowned architect Jean Nouvel, houses the hotel’s rooms and private suites, offering an urban sanctuary in the heart of São Paulo.

One thing that sets Rosewood São Paulo apart is its artistic sensibility. With 450 works by 57 Brazilian artists displayed throughout the property, the art feels organic rather than decorative, adding depth to the hotel’s aesthetic.

The interiors, curated by the renowned Philippe Starck, perfectly balance old and new elements. Brazilian woods, lush garden walls, and unique furnishings bring an authentic yet modern feel. The hotel’s 160 rooms and suites, along with 100 private residences, are designed to be more than just places to rest. They’re spaces to savor—ideal for everything from a solo escape to a romantic getaway.

Another highlight is the newly unveiled penthouse, a standout even in a city known for luxury. Starck and Nouvel have created an elevated experience that represents a shift in São Paulo’s luxury landscape.

The penthouse is technically a private residence but it is also part of the hotel pool of suites when the residents are away.

The brand new Asaya Spa is another gem within the hotel, with its design alone worthy of a visit. I’d previously been skeptical of the whole crystal-infusion trend, but the spa here might just have changed my mind.

Besides its aesthetic charm, the spa offers incredible treatments. I enjoyed a 60-minute massage that began with a cacao-based drink—bitter but very drinkable.

The hotel gym deserves a shoutout too. With its spacious layout, great ambiance, and ample cardio machines, it’s one of the best hotel gyms I’ve seen. There’s even a sauna accessible directly through the locker rooms, making it easy to unwind after a workout without needing a spa appointment. Open 24/7, it caters to night owls and early birds alike.

The dining options at Rosewood São Paulo are equally impressive, with six restaurants and bars catering to every mood and craving.

For those who like a midnight snack or an early breakfast, there’s a 24-hour dining option at Le Jardin. (Just imagine the most luxurious and artistically-designed 24-hour diner in the world.)

It’s a thoughtful touch, especially considering Brazilian dining often starts later in the evening, aligning well with the local culture.

An unusual (but delightful) perk here is that breakfast can be ordered through room service at no extra charge. (Noting that only one of the prix-fixe breakfast menus is included with your stay each morning, but that’s still something.)

One of my favorite aspects of the Rosewood experience was the hotel’s attention to detail—even in the uniforms. I couldn’t help but notice that the staff’s attire mirrored the hotel’s aesthetic.

From polka-dot suits at the concierge to the stylish attire at Terez, the Brazilian bistro, each uniform seemed curated to enhance the hotel’s immersive vibe. It reminded me of Disney’s attention to detail in creating an all-encompassing experience. The fashion sense here is on point, both among the guests and the staff.

As for favorite spots? That’s a tough call. The Emerald Pool and Bar offers a relaxing oasis in the midst of São Paulo’s bustling energy, making it feel like an escape within an escape.

Then there’s Rabo di Galo, the speakeasy tucked behind a curtain at Le Jardin, which serves a stellar Espresso Martini (among many other cocktails as well as high-end spirits and wines—don’t miss the hotel’s house sparkling wine, made in Brazil).

And Blaise serves traditional Brazilian food, with an emphasis on seafood. (But really there are so many options—as a vegetarian, I never went hungry once here!) It also has a rustic and cozy cabin vibe, evoking the Brazilian countryside.

The rooms here are more than just a place to sleep—they’re a space to savor. As a homebody, I appreciate a good hotel room just as much as a museum or local restaurant.

And the guest rooms at this Rosewood are ideal for any kind of stay, whether it’s business travel, a wedding, or a getaway with a partner or friends.

Also designed by Starck, the rooms include familiar elements I’ve seen in his other major hotel properties, such as the Hotel Brach and Le Royal Monceau-Raffles, both in Paris: a guitar, art books, glass mirror sliding doors, cherry-hued wood panels, and illustrated wallpaper in the hallways.

But unlike those other hotels, there’s one essential addition here—a coffee maker. Thankfully, an Illy machine was ready and waiting.

(Also, the minibar is packed with a curious mix of high-end serums, snacks you might not have seen before, and a few eclectic items. But I digress.)

In all, Rosewood São Paulo is more than just a hotel; it’s a destination in itself. (The marketing team says they’re “not selling a room, but a lifestyle,” which yes, sounds like a line, but it actually fits here.)

Whether you’re admiring the in-house art collection, relaxing at the rooftop pool, or indulging in a meal at one of its many dining options, you could easily spend days here without stepping foot outside.

But, when you’re ready, the hotel’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring São Paulo’s vibrant art scene, which is among the best in the Americas.

Final Verdict: In short, if you’re heading to São Paulo and want an experience that’s both luxurious and culturally enriching, the Rosewood São Paulo is worth every moment. It’s a home away from home, perfect for business travelers and vacationers alike.