Hello everyone,

We are flying from New York City to San Francsico at the end of April. I have been looking at hotels all day and we're between the Ritz ($240 deluxe) and the Palomar ($209 deluxe or $229 for one with a seating area). Ideally we like to stay in a luxury hotel that is centrally located but won't break the bank. We're open to other suggestions.

I've read that the Palomar is over priced with iffy service and an OK location. On the flip side I've read that the Ritz is amazing but removed from everything and is on some sort of deadly hill (ha ha!).

Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Rachel

We stayed at the Palomar and thought it was fine. Our room was smallish but tasteful. We walked everywhere from the hotel and took the cable car back (the stop is very nearby). Also had dinner at the Fifth Floor (which is in the hotel). Pricey but good. We only stayed for one night, however, so if we ever return for a longer stay, we would probably pick something else.

The Ritz is not removed in my opinion (I don't consider 3 blocks from Union square removed) and as far as hills go, yes it is on one but if you are coming to SF you will be dealing with hills anyway.

I stayed at the Donatello a couple of years ago and absolutely LOVED it! Room was wonderful, location near Union Sq and cost around $200/night. Dashed to the 1/2 price tickets upon arrival and saw a great play for next to nothing. Did Glide Memorial Church Sun AM -- hadn't been there since the early 70's....nothing like it anywhere else. I lived in SF in the 60's and it was fun to go back this particular time, living well and being a tourist. Have Fun!

The fifth floor is one of the best restaurants in the city. While I've never stayed at the Palomar, I imagine it must on par with the restaurant.

Both hotels aren't too far from Union Square. Palomar is a bit closer to the Ferry Building - but the Ritz might have some nicer views.

I work a few dooors down from the Palomar and my mother has stayed there.

I'd take the Ritz. The Palomar is nice, but the corner of 4th and Market is kind of yucky. Central, though.

If the Ritz is within your budget, I'd spring for it. Yes, it's on a hill and not right on Union Square, but sometimes it's a blessing to be close by but not smack in the middle of the action. Up-the-hill options include cable car, the #1 California bus, cab. Plus you might check and see if the Ritz has some kind of shuttle service.

I can't speak about the Palomar, but we did stay at the Ritz for 5 nights and loved it. Yes, it is on top of Nob Hill, but it is easily accessible to Union Square and Chinatown. We loved the location and walked...a lot. But of course, you can take the cable car which runs along Stockton.

Your rate of $240 is a deal, in my opinion. If you choose the Ritz, they have a fabulous Sunday jazz brunch - expensive but so very good if you are into that sort of thing.

Whatever you decide to do, have a wonderful time! I love San Francisco