Hotel Vitale

Perfectly positioned and immaculate full service hotel with buzzy bar and restaurant

San Francisco is consistently rated one of the top cities in America, nay the world, to visit. Understandable when you consider its wonderful natural setting on the Bay, its cultural contribution, its position in the vanguard of technological innovation, its devoted promotion of high quality food and fine wines, and its friendly inhabitants.

The city's charms are showcased in the simply contemporary Hotel Vitale. Colours are softly seductive, inspired by water and earth. Natural materials such as limestone and wood are deployed throughout to create a soothing urban oasis. Its prime location on the Embarcadero overlooks the Bay Bridge and Treasure Island. 200 rooms and suites come in several configurations, designed to suit business and leisure travellers alike; all are supremely comfortable with 440-count linens, all mod cons and stylish bathrooms. The Americano restaurant wins plaudits for its style and ambiance; the bar with circular cocktail lounge plus Bayview patio attracts a vibrant crowd. And the professional staff personify the Bay Area's friendly reputation.

Highs

• Superb location on the Embarcadero, close to downtown, Ferry building, AT&T park and great transport links
• Excellent restaurant with locally sourced and seasonal menu, and scene bar; we waddled out of there after a wonderful meal
• Smooth, efficient service without attitude. Expert concierge team
• Rooms and suites conceived for relaxed luxury; hotel has won many design awards
• Spa with outdoor private soaking tubs

Lows

• Larger than the usual hotels i-escape works with but we felt its location, restaurant and comfortable rooms merited inclusion
• Some may feel the subtle décor to be tasteful to the point of bland
• Streetside rooms experience some noise; to be expected in the heart of a bustling city
• No pool but guests have complimentary use of the pool at the YMCA next door