Arrival/Check-In: A friendly doorman in a bright red uniform welcomed me to the Mandarin Oriental San Francisco and guided me into the bright, airy reception area. The hotel recently completed a major renovation, replacing the previous black granite, red and gold décor with a palette of butterscotch, reflective metals and sea blues. Although I arrived more than an hour before the official check-in time, my room was ready without delay. The receptionist pronounced my surname correctly, asked which of four newspapers I preferred for morning delivery and offered a fresh pot of hot tea. A valet escorted me past the bustling Brasserie S&P to the elevators and, on the ride up to the 44th floor, spoke proudly of the Mandarin’s 25 years of luxury service.
Guest Quarters: The highlight of my Bridge to Bridge Room was the view. Floor-to-ceiling windows covered two walls, delivering an expansive panorama that included the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The valet demonstrated how to open the windows to let in a refreshing breeze and a gentle hum of the city (air conditioning is also available). Soft, understated décor—featuring a gold metallic tray ceiling, a sage velour chair and ottoman, and a spacious work desk—allowed the view to remain the focal point. Guest rooms occupy the 38th through 48th floors, taking full advantage of the city skyline from one of the tallest buildings in San Francisco. A tray of fresh sliced fruit and berries awaited on a side table, and the next evening a thoughtful pot of hot tea and cookies was left on the ottoman after a day of exploring.
Still recovering from an early-morning East Coast flight, I sank into the plush king-sized bed. The television swivels to face either the desk or the bed, though I found myself content to simply watch the bay. The bathroom was spacious and tastefully appointed, with a deep soaking tub and a glass-walled shower. I appreciated the large rainfall showerhead, though it was fixed and could not be adjusted; when testing the spray, water splashed onto the bathroom floor.
Services and Amenities: Before dinner, my husband and I stopped by The Bar at Brasserie S&P, noted for its wide range of gin-and-tonic choices. Soft jazz set a relaxed tone as evening approached. The restaurant and bar balance casual comfort with elegant touches. While we browsed an interactive cocktail menu, the bartender presented a small plate of salted almonds, pickled radishes and olives. I chose the Farmer’s Gin Martini, garnished with a lemon peel stamped with the Chinese symbol for long life—an example of the small thoughtful details that enhance the experience. The menu features a tempting raw bar, seafood and Asian-fusion dishes. Even with the hotel at high occupancy, service remained smooth and unhurried.
Following the renovation, the first-floor lounge has become a favorite after-work destination for professionals from the surrounding financial district. During our stay we enjoyed meals in our room and at the restaurant; the cuisine was fresh, inventive and well presented. I particularly enjoyed the smoked salmon breakfast platter. Renovations on the third floor were still in progress but were unobtrusive; that floor will house the spa and fitness facilities.
The Experience: Located in the heart of the financial district, the Mandarin Oriental is well suited for business travelers, offering meeting rooms and a business center on the 45th floor. The hotel is also within easy walking distance of the Ferry Building and its marketplace, convenient for early starts and leisurely strolls. Staff members were consistently courteous and addressed us by name, readily providing directions, transportation options and local recommendations. The bright, airy design created a restful, rejuvenating atmosphere. Overall, my stay at this San Francisco gem was both comfortable and memorable, and I was sorry to leave.
GT Checklist
- Doorman/Valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- High-quality bed linens
- Large, flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
- State-of-the-art fitness center
Mandarin Oriental San Francisco
222 Sansome St.
San Francisco, CA 94104
tel 415 276 9888
mandarinoriental.com