Arrival/Check-in: I drove up San Francisco’s sunny, steep streets and arrived at the Mark Hopkins in the early afternoon. The bellman quickly retrieved my luggage and escorted me into the lobby. There was a short wait to complete check-in, which gave me time to admire the hotel’s expansive, European-inspired lobby. When it was my turn, the front desk staff checked me in efficiently and offered helpful recommendations for dining both within the hotel and around the Nob Hill neighborhood. (29/30)
Guest Quarters: I reserved the atrium suite, located on a corner of the hotel with impressive views. The entryway and living area are decorated in classic tones, featuring a rich red couch and matching armchairs. Dark wood cabinets and a sturdy coffee table—suitable for use as a desk—create an elegant, comfortable space for receiving guests or handling business. The television felt dated compared with the rest of the room and was not a flat screen. The separate bedroom is compact relative to the king-sized bed, but the bed’s many pillows made it tempting to linger. The bathroom is finished in red and cream marble with a black granite sink, striking a luxurious note; it includes a glass-enclosed shower and a generous soaking tub. The atrium off the living room provides views toward the bay and downtown. Furnished with a wicker sofa, two wicker chairs, and potted plants, the glassed-in space has a relaxed, almost tropical atmosphere. With those views and available WiFi, I spent most of my suite time in the atrium. (26/30)
Services/Amenities: With 380 guestrooms, the Mark Hopkins offers a varied selection of dining and entertainment options. An InterContinental Club level and a business center provide a professional setting for travelers who need to work. The famed Top of the Mark Sky Lounge on the top floor delivers 360-degree views of the city and a lively musical backdrop from a pianist or band. The lounge is known for an extensive martini list and transforms into a restaurant for sunset dining with thoughtful wine pairings. Other conveniences include a 24-hour fitness center, round-the-clock in-room dining, and same-day dry cleaning services. (40/40)
The Experience: As a historic landmark, the Mark Hopkins combines refined, timeless elegance with attentive service, offering a different and memorable alternative to many newer, minimalist hotels. Its Nob Hill location makes it easy to walk or hop on a historic cable car to reach shopping, dining, and business districts in Union Square, downtown, or along the Embarcadero.
Total Score: 95/100
InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco
One Nob Hill
San Francisco, CA 94108
tel 415 392 3434
www.intercontinentalmarkhopkins.com