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Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

March 2, 2023

They say first impressions are everything, and The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco sets an everlasting impression the moment you are greeted at the doors of a 1909 Neoclassical landmark. As the doorman adorned in a top hat and coattails warmly welcomes you, you anticipate the moments of grandeur that await you inside.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco sits at the top of the prestigious Nob Hill neighborhood, where you will find San Francisco’s most-visited attractions and the historic cable car in the immediate area.

In this blog post, I invite you to discover why The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is ranked as the city’s no.1 hotel by Travel + Leisure and U.S. News.

*Thank you to The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco for sponsoring this blog post!

About The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

Recognized as the only AAA Five-Diamond hotel in San Francisco, the nine-story hotel sits on top of Nob Hill’s eastern slope. At the corner, you may hop onto the historic street car or even take in the scenic views of Nob Hill’s eastern slope. In the immediate surrounding area, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco borders the city’s Financial District, Chinatown and Union Square.

As far as airports go, both San Francisco International and Oakland International airports are a short 25-minute drive from the hotel.

Below is summary of what you can expect from this Ritz-Carlton property, with a more detailed description to follow:

  • Guest Rooms and Suites: 336 luxury suites and guest rooms with downtown or bay views
  • The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco Club Lounge: Exclusive club featuring all-day food presentations
  • Three Dining Options: The Lounge, Parallel 37 and The JCB Tasting Lounge
  • Krigler Boutique: Luxury Fragrance

Guest Rooms and Suites

From the 336 luxury suites and guest rooms, we stayed in the executive suite which boasted of an expansive 800 square feet of space! As our bellhop escorted us for a room tour, we walked down the suite’s marbled foyer into the living space.

Living Space

In the living space, there’s a spacious seated area and a 55-inch high-definition, LCD flat-panel TV placed on a credenza. Next to the TV, an end table holds a Nespresso machine to make in-room Nespresso gourmet coffee and tea presentations. And while we didn’t utilize this, it’s worth noting that the sofa can convert into a queen bed. I think this would be ideal for families or a getaway with girlfriends. At max, the website says the executive suite may sleep up to four people.

Powder Room and Walk-in Closet

From one section of the living space, you may stroll into the enclosed powder room to enter the massive walk-in closet or Italian marble bathroom. The powder room contains an elongated built-in vanity and mirror that you may utilize to get ready for the day. In the closet, you will find it allows you to comfortably settle in. There’s plenty of storage space on the racks and the shelves. These smaller details that allow me to comfortably unpack are why I always find myself at home with The Ritz-Carlton hotels. Should you require additional storage, you may use the credenza’s drawers in the living space and in the bedroom.

Italian Marble Bathroom

While the entire hotel exudes luxury, the Italian marble bathroom was one of my favorite room features. Some of the details that I noticed on a first glance were the beautiful double-vanity (I loved the classic craftsmanship on the wood), a soaking tub large enough for two, and a separate walk-in shower with a rainforest shower head. Upon further inspection, I took note of most-cozy, plush terry cloth robes and Asprey toiletries. Although I curled my hair and fastened my jewelry in the powder room, I found myself applying my makeup on the lighted cosmetic mirror at the double vanity. One last final detail, the toilet has it’s own room and door.

French Doors Bedroom

Back to the living space, you will notice French doors. Once opened, the doors reveal a king-size bed, an executive desk, a seated area with a marble table, and another credenza with a 55-inch high-definition, LCD flat-panel TV.

The seated area was my favorite spot to work out of the room! Framed in front of a floor-to-ceiling window was a round marble table and two end chairs. The window revealed the hotel’s lush courtyard and a city view. I loved that a remote control provided the option to have the window view entirely open, or create a sense of privacy with the white, translucent roller shades. In the evening, I switched over to the blackout curtains.

Moving onto the bedding, we slept incredibly well with the 400-thread-count, 100% combed cotton Frette linens and down comforter.

With the bedroom’s blue and grey tones, we found ourselves relaxed and at ease. There was no sense of urgency, and we just went about our day at a leisurely pace.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco Club Lounge

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco Club Lounge provides continuous, complimentary food and beverage service. This superb service even extends to alcoholic beverages. If I wasn’t working out of our executive suite, I would find myself in the Club Lounge.

Club Lounge Amenities

The entire space is filled with natural light and offers a selection of comfortable seating and tables. The Club lounge is also not accessible to all guests. So, as someone who prefers a quiet work space, this was most-ideal to me. For Club Level guests looking for a more intimate business setting, the 24-hour Club Business Lounge offers complimentary wireless Internet, well-appointed seating, a flat-screen television and desktop workstation with printing.

However, it goes to say the Club Lounge isn’t only limited to those who have matters pertaining to business. In fact, it’s also an ideal spot to meet up with family and friends before embarking on an adventure in the city. Should you require assistance, you may utilize the full-service Club Concierge for extraordinary travel experiences.

In addition to the privacy and WiFi, culinary offerings are served throughout the day, including: breakfast, light lunch, hors d’oeuvres and desserts. You will also have the option to sip curated California wines, crafted cocktails and espresso drinks. My husband and I enjoyed the lounge during breakfast and lunch, both which we’d recommend.

Exceptional Service

This is the best service that I have received from any global, luxury lounge. When I asked the lounge host, Zeny, for oat milk, her response blew me away! She apologetically said they did not have oat milk, but generously offered to pick some up for me for the rest of my stay. Of course I told her that wouldn’t be necessary, but I was thoroughly impressed by her persistence and desire to accommodate! All staff were exceptionally hospitable.

Access to the Club Lounge

Whether you’re staying in a guest room or suite, the Club Lounge is available for purchase. There’s a few different ways to obtain access to the Club Lounge, which include:

  • During Booking: At the time of booking on www.ritzcarlton.com, you will notice there’s the option to book two styles of a room, i.e.: Executive Suite, 1 King v. Club level Executive Suite, 1 King. Book the room that specifies “Club level.”
  • After Booking: You may request to upgrade to Club level after booking, but the rate may be higher.
  • Daily Rate: If you don’t plan to visit the lounge every day, then this could be an ideal option.

Dining Options

In addition to the Club Lounge, there are two on-site eateries and a wine lounge for all to enjoy at The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco: The Lounge, Parallel 37 and The JCB Tasting Lounge.

The Lounge and Parallel 37 offer contrasting atmospheres that are led by Executive Patrick O’Sullivan. Chef O’Sullivan, who has more than a decade of culinary experience at luxury hotels in San Francisco and London, brings his passion to create modern cuisine with fresh ingredients.

The Lounge

The Lounge is the elegant and lively lobby restaurant that serves classic American fare. I found myself smitten by the decor. It was stunning in every way and offered a timeless elegance. Our favorites from the menu were the Heirloom Tomato + Burrata and the Filet Mignon.

As far as what to drink, we opted for two pours from The JCB Collection. This is a great alternative if you don’t have the opportunity to visit The JCB Tasting Lounge. The Lounge also serves excellent handcrafted cocktails.

Parallel 37

Parallel 37 serves American classics that are crafted with local ingredients. You can expect both indulgent and healthy options. I loved my yogurt bowl with the housemade granola and fresh fruit. It was the perfect light option after indulging in The Lounge and eateries around the city.

The JCB Lounge

Through a unique partnership with legendary winemaker Jean-Charles Boisset, The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco offers tastings in an opulent, intimate setting at The JCB by Jean-Charles Boisset Tasting Lounge. Rare and exclusive bottles are available for purchase, as well as other retail products.

In regards of the tastings, guests may choose from three curated wine tasting experiences ranging from $60, $75 and $95 per person. Available tastings include: Sparkling Wine, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Red Blend styles. For a private tasting, indulgence may be created by adding a Regiis Ova caviar pairing, or a locally-sourced cheese and charcuterie selection prepared by Chef O’Sullivan.

Krigler Boutique

At The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco the luxury journey continues with Krigler. Krigler has long-catered to haute cliente, some which include: Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, Jackie O. and Princess of Wales. The 119-year-old parfumer will help you discover your new signature scent from its existing collection, or even create a custom-made scent. My favorite scent was English Promenade 19, which was a favorite of Audrey Hepburn. Additional items for purchase include scented candles, soaps and gifts.

Overall Thoughts

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco reminded me that we need to continue romanticize timeless luxury, but with a modern twist. This is one beautiful hotel with outstanding service, food and amenities. And the location is unbeatable. I’d encourage you to book The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco for the ultimate luxury experience! The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco pairs modern elegance with that of timeless luxury in the most spectacular ways.

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