apseals

I have good friends that are looking for help in planning a romantic long weekend in the city. I have been there many times but usually my focus is more family/group oriented so I need help in giving them some recommendations. Hotel: Preferrably, a high-end hotel or boutique hotel in a neighborhood other than Union Square or the Wharf. Restaurant choices don't have to be all fancy/high end such as Fifth Floor but leisurely ones as well. They just found out they are having a baby so they want it to be an extra special trip. They have not ruled out staying one night in Sonoma area or south of the city. OK Fodorites.....you have never let me down before......help me out!

bodi

Mandrin Oriental for view?

apseals

Just looked at their website. Sounds fantastic. Has anyone stayed there that might have some feedback? Keep the suggestions coming!

kindra178

I think the W is in a great location. Get a groovy corner room for great views of the bridge. It's across the street from the Yerba Buena Gardens which is gorgeous as well as next door to the MOMA. My other recommendation would be the Palace.

apseals

topping

haydencat

The Union Street Inn looks very charming, upscale and romantic. www.unionstreetinn.com. I haven't stayed there, but I've walked by and admired it many time. I love the neighborhood location, too. Great shopping and restaurants nearby. Merenda, Pane e Vino, Isa (very romantic), and Betelnut are all within walking distance. Gary Danko is my favorite in the "Fifth Floor" category. It never disappoints.

apseals

I have heard raves about Gary Danko but have not eaten there yet. The Union Street area would be a nice one I think and much more quiet than some of the other areas. It has been a few years since eating at Betelnut. Is it still worth going to or are other/new places in that catagory better?

apseals

ttt one more time

gplimpton

I've stayed in the top floor suites at the Mandarin. Views are unbeatable. Rooms are nice. They're not as nice as the Four Seasons' rooms and not as nice as the better suites (not the standard rooms) at Campton Place nor as unique as the Archbishop's Mansion. Mandarin's a business hotel, very nice but not quite as memorable as some of SF's other better hotels.

Don't forget about places like Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur and Carmel Valley Ranch. A bit of a hike, but those are unique, memorable places.

The W is not at all what I'd describe as a "price no object romantic" hotel. Rooms are small, and while well done, they're not really romantic. They're a bit retro hippish. Staff need some training about service-oriented attitude. Would have been a great place for a weekend when I was in my early 20's.

apseals

Thanks gplimpton.
I had see W from the outside and had heard about it being quite "hip" but had no idea what the inside was like. I also appreciate your input on the other hotel choices. They have stayed at Post Ranch Inn so was trying to recommend something they have not tried.

To all fodorites: I appreciate the comments and help...keep it coming.

kikahead

Hotel Monaco! Very romantic--may be too close to Union Square for you however. Gary Danko's is FANTASTIC! We did the tasting menu (with wine) and it was one of the best meals I have ever had in my life! Julius's Castle is also romantic--I have not been there in a couple of years though. Casual restaurants I love are: Izzy's (steakhouse in the Marina District)and Michaelangelo's (North Beach--Italian).

hmack26

I live in San Jose and go up to the city alot. I have stayed at the W Hotel with my husband for romantic overnight/weekends. This is probably one of the best hotels I have stayed in the city. We have never had any issues with the rooms or staff. Modern yet romantic. Get a room with a view of the Bay Bridge if possible or a corner room. They also have a fun, hip bar and comfy chairs to hang out in.
For places to dine-we liked Lulu's, Aziz (they are right next to each other). Roy's was great too. All within walking distances. Go to the Top of the Mark for a drink. If they like gourmet Vegetarian, Greens is a great place for brunch on Sundays. It is located in the Fort Mason buildings and has a beautiful view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
For daytime, take in a SF Giants game! This is probably the most beautiful ballpark (o.k., yes I am a Giants fan!).
Hope they have a nice time.

laurelt

I'm a local so I don't know much about these hotels but, as for restaurants, I would suggest they go to Cafe Jacqueline on Grant Street in North Beach. Is is a very French, quaint souffle restaurant. Great for a special dinner.

nyc1

Just came back from a 3 night stay at the Mandarin Oriental. I was on the 47th floor (just below the top floor) and the room was nice but not overly large. Service was very helpful. The real selling point is the view. The vistas are panoramic and I could see the Golden Gate Bridge and Union Square from my room. As a nice touch there is a pair of binoculars in the room, which I enjoyed using. The hotel is conveniently located near some very high end restaurants like Acqua.

As a prior poster mentioned, there is no shortage of very deluxe hotels in SF. I've heard some good things about the Sherman House, which is in an upscale residential area.

GailLK

We stayed at the Ritz Carlton hotel in SF (hey, it was our honeymoon!!!) and it was very classy, but a little stuffy in decor for me. But location was great, right near Chinatown and easy walk to anyplace. Hop right on the cable car.... I probably wouldn't stay here again and try a more "hip" decor hotel. Maybe the "W" or Mandarin? Have a romantic weekend!!!

haydencat

Betelnut is fun, and the food and drinks are still good. It's not the place to go for a quiet, romantic dinner...Isa would be better for that...but I think it's fun. Again, I absolutely adore Gary Danko for fine dining. The atmosphere is elegant yet not stuffy, the food is to die for, and the service is gracious. The cheese course is a must.

apseals

I have recommended Gary Danko to them and said it is a must. There is a large convention of lawyers in town that weekend so they are finding it hard to get reservations with the room type they want. They have a reservation at the Mandarin in a small room and are still looking in case they find something better. Thanks to everyone for all the input. I knew that you all would come through!

Patrick

There is only one spot that meets your criteria for the romantic, getaway, no-expense spared boutique hotel and that is The Sherman House.

apseals

Can you tell me more about The Sherman House? Like location etc.? Would love to follow up on that.

1jan1

For my birthday last year we stayed at the Four Seasons...it was Wonderful in all ways. Dinner one night at Campton Place - one of my all time favorites. We also went to an afternoon ballgame. The park was beautiful and what a nice way to spend the afternoon in that amazing weather. Enjoy