Fairmont Heritage Place, Ghirardelli Square
"How did it strike you on arrival?The Fairmont Heritage Place—not to be confused with Nob Hill's Fairmont—is an all-suite private residence club housed in a brick building that was once Ghirardelli's chocolate factory. As such, it's far more low-key that its sister property on Nob Hill, with a small but well-designed lobby with tiled floors and stone steps, contemporary artwork and potted plants. From the outside, the brick building is stately, with Fairmont flags flanking the entryway. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.All the residences come with one, two, or three bedrooms, high-end kitchens with Wolf appliances, dining areas, and living rooms with fireplaces. The suites range in size from 850 square feet to a sprawling 1,800 square feet, and they’re tricked out with anything and everything you might need: dishwasher, wine fridge, and a washer-dryer. In addition, the property has partnerships with McCormick’s and San Francisco Brewing Co.; you can order direct through the concierge, and a butler will deliver your order straight to you. The vibe is far more modern than the iconic hotel, with details like exposed brick, open floor plans, loft-like ceilings, and bronze pendent lights. The space come with homey touches like framed images, and comfortable chairs and couches and shades of beige and blue. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The beds come with Mascioni linens. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?I would absolutely steal the glass-front wine refrigerators. CD/DVD players mean you can make yourself at home, while washer-dryers are incredibly handy for those on the road for a while. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Bathrooms have stone floors, dark cabinets, and rain showers. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is complimentary. Room service: Worth it?This isn't a typical hotel, so there's not restaurant or room service. But there is a concierge to make your reservations for you. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Great views of the water, and a terrace you can hang out on. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The freedom of staying in your own apartment. It has the convenience of an Airbnb and the luxury of a hotel. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The location is in the middle of tourist central." - Elise Craig
