Fodor's Expert Review Proper Hotel

Occupying a 1926 flatiron building in the mid-Market tech district, the Proper Hotel lures the style mavens and techies to frolic in this somewhat rough neighborhood. From the lively lobby lounge and restaurant to the sophisticated rooftop bar, the seven floors of this new hotel feature geometric pre-mod European decor and an effusive staff.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Thin walls do not entirely block out the sounds from the lobby or rooftop lounges--light sleepers should bring ear plugs.

room

Charcoal furnishings and contrasting patterned wallpaper make small quarters feel at once intimate and chaotic. Shades of brown, black, cream and cobalt embolden the horizontal stripes atop comfy beds, squiggles along the walls, and vertical-lined blackout curtains. Free Wi-Fi, in-room tablets, and Vifa wireless speakers appeal to those needing a dash of technology. A small bistro table and chair provide a tiny workspace.

bathroom

Tiled bathrooms feature rain-showers and a marble sink with brass knobs. Refillable Aesop bath amenities and great water pressure up the ante. Slip into the checkered thin robes and match the room decor.

lobby

Cozy up on the lobby's plentiful Parisian-inspired couches and chairs. Distressed mirrors, Picasso-esque artwork and large shuttered windows evoke a speakeasy feel. Villon's patrons spill into the lobby area late into the evening.

spa

The front desk can arrange spa services upon request.

gym

The 24-hour basement gymnasium features cardio machines, yoga, and Pilates equipment and free weights.

dining

Don't miss the chance to dine at one of the hotel's three lauded restaurants. The lobby-level signature restaurant Villon melds the wild west rebelliousness with European classiness, tossing in a dash of Asian inspiration for an added kick. Whether you are in the mood for breakfast favorites like ricotta pancakes, or pho, or lunch/dinner dishes like gnudi (a fun take on gnocchi) or the Kuri squash soup, sit on the green leather banquettes and order one of their 49 cocktails (inspired by the 7x7 square miles that make up San Francisco proper). New Le Bande cafe features coffee, pastries, and a smattering of bites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The rooftop lounge, Charmaine's serves fun bar bites like a deconstructed hot dog and churros.

Make a reservation 3-4 weeks in advance for weekend dinners at Villon.

drinking

A line forms in the chilly night on weekends for revelers to ascend to the rooftop bar Charmaine's to sip bubbly or fanciful cocktails then sit around firepits to take in the city lights. Downstairs, in the lobby lounge, sip one of Villon's 49 cocktails, like the Billy le Kid (a tequila, peach, lillet combo) atop textured couches.

YOU SHOULD KNOW If you prefer a more low-key drinking experience, grab a cocktail or bottle of wine and head up to your room.