The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco
"How did it strike you on arrival?The Ritz's 1909 neoclassical building cuts an impressive figure on not-quite-the-top of Nob Hill, and the interior is just as opulent as the soaring columns and friezes on the exterior might suggest. The lobby has marble-tiled floors and columns, and furniture and rugs in tones of gray. The palette continues in the hotel bar, which has high ceilings, large windows, and red leather bar stools and banquettes. What’s the crowd like?It's a luxury hotel with a luxury hotel vibe. The crowd is mostly in suits and business attire. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The hotel completed a renovation in March 2015, so everything feels up-to-date. Wallpaper and curtains are also in gray tones, but the carpets are patterned with dark blue, and the white linens are topped with navy throw pillows. Desks are large enough to spread out and get some real work done, and even the more basic Deluxe rooms have almost 500 square feet of space. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Beds at the Ritz are made with 400 thread count Frette linens and a down comforter. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?In-room Nespresso is a pretty nice perk, and the minibar comes with Glenlivet 12-Year and snacks like cashews and chocolate chip cookies. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms have rain showers, separate baths, marble, double sinks, and terrycloth robes and slippers. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Standard Internet is $14.95 per day, while high-speed internet costs $18.95. Room service: Worth it?The Ritz has a serious room service menu, with entrees like a 16-ounce bone-in ribeye, and selections for kids, like its ants on a log appetizer. Room service is 24 hours. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why?The bartenders at the Lounge give a very generous pour. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Perfumer Krigler and women’s fashion designer House of Azadeh have boutiques in the lobby, and San Francisco cable cars stop right outside of the building. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The location not-quite-on-top of Nob Hill is a great one, and the building itself is gorgeous. Bottom line: worth it, and why?If you're looking for a luxury hotel experience, the Ritz is among the best in the city." - Elise Craig
