The elegant lobby features a gold and alabaster chandelier, a hand-painted sky motif ceiling and beautiful hand- woven tapestries, which accent the Empire period furnishings. The Belden-Stratford is home to the French restaurant, Ambria, one of the city's top-rated dining venues. The Ambria dishes up classic, vegetarian and shellfish menus, including Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Braised Beef Ravioli, Raspberry Soufflé, Chocolate Euphoria Cake and Soft Pecan Caramel with Almond Brittle. The more casual Mon Ami Gabi offers French bistro fare, while the Stratford Market, a Mexican-American deli, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Belden-Stratford is also home to the full-service Vera Volli Spa, where guests can pamper themselves with a full range of treatments, including the River Stone Massage and a chocolate wrap.

Some of the luxurious guestrooms feature wrap-around views of the surrounding area, including the park and city. Décor includes Oriental rugs and walnut furniture. Bathrooms feature fancy Gilchrist & Soames products. br> The Belden- Stratford Hotel attracts business travelers, vacationers and celebrating couples who appreciate its refined style, award-winning dining, away-from-the-crowds setting - and getting enveloped in chocolate.