The Nobleman Fort Worth Debuts with Historic Charm and Culinary Sophistication
May 19th, 2025 – A distinctive blend of past and present has taken shape in Fort Worth’s Near Southside neighborhood with the opening of The Nobleman Fort Worth, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, and its highly anticipated on-site restaurant, Duchess. Developed by Jeff Blackman of Bedford Lodging, the new property is more than a hotel—it’s a carefully reimagined landmark, wrapped in hospitality, culture, and culinary creativity.
Located at 503 Bryan Avenue, The Nobleman incorporates the preserved façade of the original No. 5 Fire Station, a 1911 structure that once housed Fort Worth’s bravest and now anchors a stylish 153-key property. The firehouse doesn’t just serve as visual inspiration; it physically forms the heartbeat of the hotel, housing guest check-in, social spaces, and the Duchess restaurant in a setting that respects its original architecture.
Where Heritage Meets Contemporary Comfort
Thoughtfully designed by Kathy Moran-Clarson of KMC&A Design, The Nobleman exudes an atmosphere of welcoming ease with polished references to its firehouse roots. The revived white-tiled walls and brass fixtures preserve the building’s early-20th-century integrity, while modern updates—like terraces, outdoor fireplaces, and leisure spaces—create a luxurious yet unpretentious ambiance. The fireman's pole remains as a nod to the building’s legacy, bridging the property’s historic foundation with its present-day identity.
With 121 guestrooms and 32 extended-stay suites featuring kitchenettes, the hotel is geared for everyone from medical district visitors and business travelers to weekend staycationers. Amenities include a pool, 2,000 square feet of indoor-outdoor meeting and event space, and a state-of-the-art fitness center—all designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s luxury traveler.
Duchess: A New Chapter in Fort Worth’s Dining Scene
Located within the historic fire station and accessible from street level, Duchess sets the culinary tone for The Nobleman with a concept that merges New American cuisine with seasonal Texas flair. Consultant chef Casey Thompson, known for her work at Dallas’ acclaimed Mansion Restaurant and her appearances on Top Chef, developed the breakfast and dinner menus and sourced an executive chef to bring the vision to life.
Guests can expect dishes that strike a balance between comfort and sophistication—think fried Texas burrata, crispy chicken parm burgers, and ricotta gnudi. Signature entrées like the lucky pig speak to Duchess’s commitment to both regional inspiration and culinary technique.
Adding an extra layer of local collaboration, Duchess has partnered with Lucchese Bootmaker to introduce Lucchese Craftsman, a tequila-forward signature cocktail served with branded leather coasters and surrounded by a Lucchese boot display at the bar. It’s an homage to craftsmanship and heritage—a motif that runs through both the food and the space.
A Brand Built with Intention
More than just a physical space, the identity of The Nobleman and Duchess was carefully crafted by Brooke Hollis Hortenstine and Missy Wyszynski of Ashlar Projects. From the logos and messaging to menus and social media presence, the team brought to life a refined and cohesive brand that aligns with Fort Worth’s evolving luxury narrative.
Construction services were provided by Kansas-based Crossland Construction, and the property is now under the expert management of Crestline Hotels and Resorts, a national hospitality group known for curating distinctive guest experiences.
As Fort Worth continues its transformation into a cultural and culinary destination, The Nobleman Fort Worth and Duchess restaurant stand as powerful new additions—bridging legacy architecture with forward-thinking design, and offering a refreshing take on local hospitality. It's not just a place to stay or dine, but a statement of how historic preservation and modern luxury can thrive in harmony.