A Venerable Nob Hill Hotel with Drop Dead Views.
Written: Aug 25 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: A luxurious San Francisco landmark.
Cons: Pricey and somewhat stuffy.
The Bottom Line: It's always nice to live a little. This hotel is splurge.
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| fredelledge's Full Review: The Fairmont San Francisco |
I believe this hotel is probably one of the finest in the Fairmont chain. It certainly has a history of catering to Presidents, celebrities and the uber rich. The lobby looks like an ornate European castle. It's worth sitting and taking it all in.
Be prepared. This hotel will cost you, unless you're lucky enough to find an internet special. You can even spend $60 on breakfast in the Laurel Court. I'm serious. Maybe it's because they have a chef, Bernard Chirent with a Michelin starred resume. For rooms, I've seen rates as low as $189 all the way up to $10,000 for the 6,000 square foot three bedroom penthouse with a formal dining room that seats 50! The hotel also runs a "Porsche Package" with suite and use of a car at equally absurd pricing. I'm sure there are people who step right up to the plate.
Many a bride has dreamed of getting married on Nob Hill at the Fairmont. If you're there on a weekend, you're sure to see a wedding or two. It's worth it just to sit and watch the festivities. We saw two weddings taking place...one was breathtaking and one was humorous...I guess it was breathtaking in its own special way.
The Fairmont has recently completed an $85 million renovation, so you'll find the hotel in tip-top shape.
Mobil gives it 4 stars and AAA gives it four diamonds. Much can be said to the staff "anticipating your needs", and working hard to fulfill your expectations. My guess is the general manager who hails from the Peninsula Hotel group, has everything to do with this.
I had no service glitches whatsoever during my stay. The twice daily maid service was unobtrusive and efficient. The linens and towels were incredible as was the bed, one the most comfortable I have ever slept in. The concierge was incredibly helpful and even held a jacket for a friend to pick up after my check-out. The bathrooms always receive rave reviews. Swathed in cream colored marble, they offer separate tub and glass enclosed shower. Excellent bath ammenities. The only thing they didn't think of were heated floors, but that's more of a European tradition in 5 star hotels.
My room had a jaw dropping view of San Francisco bay from the Golden Gate to the Bay Bridge. The room was not overly large, and completely comfortable in a soft Asian design. The honor bar was fully stocked and the television offered more channels than I would have expected. High speed internet in all rooms.
While some people might feel a little out of place in such opulent surroundings, it's actually quite relaxed on weekends with many guests in jeans and sweaters. And after all this is San Francisco.
We had a lovely stay. If you enjoy a traditional environment and don't mind being on top of Nob Hill, rather than down on Union Square. This is an incredible location. Be prepared to pay; status has a price. I would encourage you to venture out for dining as San Francisco has many outstanding restaurants. If you do eat in, you will not be dismayed the food is top notch.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
fredelledge
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Reviews written: 32
Trusted by: 0 members
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