The architectural grand dame that is Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco sits atop Nob Hill, offering commanding views of the city. The historic building, originally constructed in the early 1900's, was further improved with the added Ritz-Carlton branding; and when any structure joins this elite hotel group, the expectations are enormous. Because Ritz-Carlton has earned the all the major accolades both the hospitality industry and leading consumer organizations can bestow (such as The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award from the United States Department of Commerce) the bar is set above and beyond the standards of most hotels.
Occupying a nationally registered landmark is an honor and a challenge. Although graced with a good foundation, it takes creativity and persistence to raise these mature structures to the standards of the 21st century. But yet again, The Ritz-Carlton rises to the occasion. While the rooms maintain their old world charm and comfort, with soft cushy chairs, luxurious bedding and window treatments, each room offers unique size and character. A few of the rooms offer guests the sounds of the city, including its heartbeat, the cable car bells. While some may be charmed by the city's sounds, others may like the quietude that comes with new construction standards. No worries, an able staff member will escort you to as many rooms as you like until one meets your personal requirements.
A counterpoint to the traditional rooms, the recently renovated public areas offer the chic, cool vibe and excitement that many guests prefer. The lounge and bar is an action-packed hot spot while Parallel 37, the reincarnation of the space’s former restaurant, features casual, hip décor and approachable California cuisine. Chef Michael Rotondo, formerly with Charlie Trotter, is determined to put his signature on the newly envisioned space. Think vibrant, seasonal cuisine and a staff dedicated to passionately pleasing customer requests.
Keen on unlimited experimentation, some of Parallel 37's most successful dishes include Kampachi, a fish similar to the yellowtail, prepared with kumquats, ponzu and brown butter; Striped Bass with yuzu gel, arugula blossoms and parmesan; and Flank Steak made with tomatillo, coconut milk and green curry. Every morsel counts in these precious portions, leaving you waiting for the next bite to scintillate your senses. Wine pairings by Food and Beverage Manager Justin Kindel are a thoughtful expansion on the culinary expectations.
Although each guest is accorded special treatment, try The Ritz-Carlton Club Level for the height of luxury. Rooms on the top floors are reserved for exclusive Club Lounge privileges, including an open bar with carefully selected drink options, handcrafted cocktails, meal presentations, a caviar service on Saturday evenings and irresistible sweets and savories. Personal Club Concierge experts anticipate nearly every question while you are also likely to strike up a chat with other discriminating Club Level guests. Superior service and an extensive menu of amenities makes San Francisco’s Ritz-Carlton at Nob Hill an experience that is truly “putting on the Ritz.”
