The Palace Hotel – Fit for Royalty
The Palace is one of San Francisco’s grandest hotels and brimming with local history. It is one of my favorite hotels for an overnight stay and to recommend to visitors. The Palace is beloved by locals and tourists for its beautiful classic architecture, restaurants and bar. There is so much history here that you are likely to run into someone with their own special story and connection to this landmark property.
While the hotel has hosted its share of dignitaries, celebrities and royalty, you don’t have to be famous to stay here. Walking through the grand entrance on New Montgomery Street, you will be greeted by uniformed doormen. A oversized vase with red roses greets visitors to the hotel. The stately lobby is both welcoming and elegant, and if you have to wait a few minutes before your room is ready, they provide free Wi-Fi in the lobby.
The hotel recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary and its history is intertwined with that of San Francisco. Enrico Caruso was one of San Francisco’s famous guests who performed a concert before the 1906 Earthquake that devastated San Francisco and the Palace Hotel.
Dining at either the Garden Court or Maxfield’s is a treat. Enjoy the Signature Palace Crab Salad with their famous green goddess dressing, invented here. The homemade biscuits served at the restaurants are fabulous. The Pied Piper is a classic San Francisco bar, made for sipping champagne and martinis. If you close your eyes you can imagine elegantly dressed men and women from decades past, enjoying a cocktail.
Whether you are staying at the Palace Hotel for business or pleasure, be sure to enjoy the pool, spa and fitness center located on the fourth floor of the hotel. The dramatic indoor pool is located in a bright glass-enclosed atrium with views of the surrounding modern buildings. It is one of a few indoor pools in a historic property in San Francisco.
Splurge on one of the Suites at the hotel. Guest rooms are elegantly furnished with a combination of antique wood furniture and and comfortable seating areas. The beds are divine, with luxury linens, down duvets and soft pillows that ensure restful sleep. Guest rooms are traditional with modern marble bathrooms and the requisite soft terry robes. Business travelers will appreciate the ample desk, comfortable leather chair and plug-ins for computers.
If you have leisure time, take advantage of the Afternoon Tea, served in the beautiful Garden Court. If your stay includes a weekend, make reservations for the gourmet Sunday Champagne Brunch. Bring your appetite – with all of the delicious selections you will be well fed. The endless supply of sparkling wine and coffee will leave you satisfied.
Concierge staff are happy to provide restaurant recommendations or arrange local tours or trips to the wine country. Read more about the Palace Hotel’s rich history here and their elegant Sunday brunch.
Details: The Palace Hotel is a part of Starwood’s Luxury Collection, located at 2 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, California 94105. Call (415) 512-1111 for more information.
