Hotel Vitale, San Francisco

Location 

The hotel sits on the recently revitalised Embarcadero (eastern waterfront), across from the old Ferry Building, which today is home to the Ferry Plaza Farmers’ Market, a real foodies’ favourite. Behind it lie the high-rises of the Financial District, the vibrant markets of Chinatown, and eventually Nob Hill, one of the city’s most elegant addresses. Out in front, you’ll find views of the bay, Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge.

Accommodation 

The 200 rooms are bright and airy and modern in design, and all but a handful of interior courtyard rooms offer fabulous views of the bay or the city. Colour schemes are soothing in tone, spa-like bathrooms have been crafted from natural limestone, toiletries come courtesy of Jonathan Adler, and the generously stocked mini bars are run on an honour system. We are especially fond of the Terrace Suites, where private terraces come with heat lamps and outdoor furniture, and the Deluxe Panoramic Circular Suite, whose deep-soaking tub for two looks out across the bay.

Dining 

It’s no small accomplishment that in a city with dozens of great dining options, Hotel Vitale’s Americano restaurant still stands out. The modern restaurant serves Northern Californian dishes with Italian influences – everything from salads to pizzas, to great seafood and meat dishes. The prices are more than reasonable and almost everything is sourced locally, much of it from the farmers’ market opposite. A circular cocktail lounge and an outdoor terrace with beautiful bay views all add to the dining experience.

Facilities 

The rooftop spa offers sweeping views of San Francisco Bay, complimentary yoga classes and a private bamboo garden with deep-soaking tubs. Treatments start at just 25 minutes in length, so even those in a rush can get a little pampering. There’s an on-site fitness centre, and thanks to some clever partnerships with nearby facilities, Hotel Vitale guests get discounted rates at the Bay Club Gym and Golden Gateway Swim and Tennis Club.