"How did it strike you on arrival?It's hard to be disappointed walking into the Fairmont. From the stately exterior to the international flags over the awning to its location at the top of Nob Hill, the building itself is a stunner. Once inside, the lobby is genuinely beautiful, with marble floors, columns, and ornate ceilings. It's a San Francisco institution. What’s the crowd like?The Fairmont pulls in all kinds—from business travelers to wedding guests to partiers looking to check out the Tonga Room, the hotel's tiki bar, which Anthony Bourdain highlighted on his show The Layover in 2014. Locals also love to bring their kids to the Fairmont around Christmas to see its two-story gingerbread house. (It is made of gallons of icing and thousands of gingerbread bricks). Overall, though, patrons reflect the hotel's upscale vibe. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The aesthetic of the rooms at the Fairmont isn't exactly wild and crazy—they're big on neutrals—but they are elegant. Amenities include extras like in-room Keurigs or Nespresso machines, Frette linens, and MP3 docking stations. The hotel also has king rooms and suites with sofa beds, if you're traveling with family or friends. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Fans are thrilled by the linens, and rave about them consistently. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?If money were no object, I'd get right on the cheese dome, a selection of four cheeses—including a Humboldt Fog and a Cowgirl Creamery triple cream, along with grapes, and olive oil toasted baguette under a glass dome (though at $45, it's not unreasonable for in-room dining). Moms and dads might be more interested in the "children's amenity," a bottle of whole milk, chocolate chip cookies, and a coloring book and crayons for $10. (Though do note that these are on their amenities list, not their room service menu.) Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The Fairmont has a partnership with New York-based perfume house Le Labo, and offers an exclusive line of products with their Rose 31 fragrance. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?For guests at the hotel, it's $13.95. Room service: Worth it?At the Fairmont, a standard breakfast of eggs, meat, breakfast potatoes, and toast will run you $22. Big spenders can be a little more decadent with the $34 sirloin and eggs, which comes with mushrooms, asparagus, and bearnaise. Between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. you can also design your own sandwich ($18), snag a burger ($23), or opt for grilled pacific salmon ($38) or New York steak and frites ($41). Guests also can order directly from Fairmont restaurants, pick something off the late-night menu (11 p.m. to 6 a.m.), or even get room service for their dogs. Luscious liver treats are $12. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?The Fairmont's concierge makes great recommendations, particularly if you request dining options that locals frequent. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The hotel has its own beehives, allows pets, and has a rooftop garden with a fountain and views of the city. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Valet parking is $71 per night, though it does include unlimited access. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The Fairmont is one of the most luxurious and best-reviewed hotels in the city. It might be more than a lot of people want to spend." - Elise Craig
