The historic Ritz-Carlton of Nob Hill, in a 1909 neoclassical building that survived the earthquake.

The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco

★9.1

From

814.56 €

“Lobby with marble columns and coffered ceilings listed as a historic monument, two blocks from the California Street cable car.”

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The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco occupies the former Metropolitan Life Building at the top of Nob Hill, and the 1909 neoclassical architecture commands respect from the entrance. We cross a lobby with Corinthian columns in white marble, gilded coffered ceilings, crystal chandeliers, the whole listed by the city. The rooms mix Regency furniture and contemporary equipment, some with views over the bay or Coit Tower, others over Victorian rooftops. The fitness centre is adequate without being remarkable, room service operates 24/7. From 815 € per night, we pay as much for the Nob Hill location as for the palace standing. The Booking score of 9.1/10 reflects a clientele that appreciates consistency more than innovation. A Californian palace that plays the history card, not that of contemporary design.

Who is it for?

Who we recommend it to

We recommend this Ritz-Carlton to travellers seeking a classic American palace, not a design boutique hotel. The clientele mixes executives on business travel, couples in their fifties on city breaks, affluent families wanting the security of a known brand. Lovers of Beaux-Arts architecture and San Francisco history will appreciate the building, others may find the style dated.

The building

Architecture and interiors

The building dates from 1909, built for Metropolitan Life Insurance after the 1906 earthquake. Neoclassical architecture by Bliss & Faville, grey granite façade, monumental Corinthian columns. The lobby retains its original gilded coffered ceilings, its white Carrara marble, its Bohemian crystal chandeliers. Renovated in 2015 to modernise the rooms while preserving the historic envelope. The whole remains faithful to the Beaux-Arts style, with no concession to contemporary minimalism.

At the table

Restaurants, bar, service

Parallel 37 offers contemporary Californian cuisine on the ground floor, local produce and Napa Valley wines, open for breakfast and dinner. The Lounge serves afternoon tea and cocktails in a hushed wood-panelled setting. Bar JG closed since 2020, replaced by a more relaxed offering. Room service operates 24/7 with a full menu, effective for jet lag or late returns.

Highlights

1909 neoclassical building, San Francisco historic monument lobby
Top of Nob Hill, 200 metres from the California Street cable car line
336 rooms with Regency furniture, some views over the bay or Coit Tower
Room service 24/7, private on-site parking with valet
Booking score 9.1/10 from 436 reviews, upscale business and leisure clientele

Location & access

Where the hotel sits in San Francisco

Nob Hill remains the historic quarter of San Francisco palaces, between Union Square (10-minute walk) and Fisherman's Wharf (15 minutes by cable car). The California Street cable car line stops two blocks away, direct connection to the Financial District. Chinatown five minutes on foot, Grace Cathedral right opposite. Upscale residential neighbourhood, quiet in the evening, very steep (good shoes advised). International airport 30 minutes by car outside traffic, 50 minutes at peak times.

Good to know

Before you book

Pets: Accepted, policy and rates to be confirmed directly with the hotel.
Parking: Private on-site parking with valet, daily rate to be expected.
Accessibility: Facilities for disabled guests, adapted rooms available.
Wi-Fi: Included in all rooms and common areas.
Smoking rooms: Hotel entirely non-smoking.

Facilities

Non-smoking rooms

Fitness centre

Room service

Facilities for disabled guests

Restaurant

Private parking

Parking on site

Pets allowed

Family rooms

Wi-Fi

Location

Where The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is located

Exact address