Fodor's Expert Review Clift San Francisco

The entrance here is so nondescript, you could walk right past without a hint of what's inside—a seriously sexy hotel, the brainchild of entrepreneur Ian Schrager and artist-designer Philippe Starck. A mix of hipsters, music-industry types, and celebrities flock to this property.

Ask for a room on highers floors, where street noise isn't so pervasive.

room

Rooms sport translucent orange Plexiglas tables, high ceilings, and two huge "infinity" wall mirrors. Sophisticated travelers appreciate the comfortable bedding, the high definition TVs and the blackout curtains.

bathroom

Marble and chrome bathrooms feature Malin and Goetz toiletries.

lobby

The moody dramatically illuminated lobby is dominated by a gigantic Napoleonic chair that could accommodate Shaquille O'Neal, with room to spare. This theatrical staging is enhanced by surreal seating options like a leather love seat with buffalo tusks, all surrounding a floor-to-ceiling, pitch-black fireplace.

pool

There is no onsite pool, but guests have access to a nearby gym with a pool.

gym

Complimentary bikes are available for guests on a first come-first served basis. Guests also have access to a 24-hour fitness center onsite. If guests need a more expansive gym experience, day passes to a nearby fitness center (with a pool, classes and more) are available from the front desk.

dining

Breakfast is served daily in the dimly lit, yet oh-so-sleek, Velvet Room. Sit on leather banquettes and enjoy Belgian waffles, omelets and a host of morning cocktails. The signature Redwood Room bar serves burgers, mezze plates, and pizzas for lunch and dinner.

drinking

The art-deco Redwood Room bar, paneled with wood from a 2,000-year-old tree, is known for its beautiful clientele and a host of craft cocktails. Order the jasmine martini or splurge on bottle service, best enjoyed in the intimate "Living Room" area that spills out from the main lounge.