What service can you provide to groups that they normally might not receive?
We are very proud of our concierge team, who are an amazing resource for our hotel and our guests. One of our concierges is a past president of the local concierge association (as well as past vice president); her network of connections and her relationships with service providers, merchants, and the concierges of the Bay Area are truly amazing. We like to wow our groups with suggestions that they had never even considered.
What are your bar or nightclub recommendations?
We have many recommendations, depending on what our guests are looking for. Some guests are looking for some great mixologists; I would send them to Rickhouse, or the Burritt Room, or even to Bar Agricole. If they are looking more for a lounge atmosphere, I would send them in the direction of Vessel or Infusion Lounge. If they are looking for more of a quintessential San Francisco experience—a dive bar—I would recommend Rye (where you may encounter a rock and roll legend) or Café du Nord.
Can you recommend a good place to take a stroll?
One of my favorite strolls is through Pacific Heights at sunset, beginning with Alta Plaza Park. At the top of the stairs the view with the Victorian homes in the foreground and SFO on the horizon is absolutely breathtaking. From there, one may stroll up and down the streets of Pacific Heights where each home is completely unique to its neighbors. Then to the top of the little-known Lyon Street steps, where the Bay View is spectacular. As you stand at the top of the steps, the scent of the Presidio’s eucalyptus trees washes over you, creating a perfect memory of San Francisco.
Are there any quirky places we should check out?
The Mystery Spot, down south. It doesn’t get much quirkier than that.
What is an unusual request from a group you’ve had?
For us, nothing is so unusual anymore.
We once had a bachelorette group request a private party with a team of exotic male dancers as entertainment. We found the dancers and negotiated the contract, but in the end the ladies decided to go another route. That was probably best for all.
A party of 12 wants to have dinner right away. What restaurant can accommodate last-minute requests of this size?
We are so lucky to have our own Michelin rated restaurant Luce; Chef Daniel is doing an amazing job and getting great reviews.
San Francisco concierges are lucky to have so many incredible dining options. Although the availability is always fluid, some of our favorites who may be able to provide a last minute large party reservation are:
54 Mint
La Mar
Oola
Alexander’s
Waterbar
Asia SF
25 Lusk
Bourbon Steak
Wayfare Tavern
Prospect
What’s a unique event that has taken place at your property?
We had an incredible event, a dinner for the Association Fighting Blindness.
Dinner was served in our Grand Ballroom for over 300 guests, completely in the dark, it was truly a memorable occasion for everyone, and we are so pleased that they wish to schedule again.
To discover more eye-opening insights from top concierges, just visit our Concierge Insights section!
