What it is

A glossy tower in SoMa with floor to ceiling windows; two restaurants local foodies love and a thronged bar; and a pristine lap pool and hot tub.

What it isn't

Stuffy. The hotel’s high tech indoor air system brings the freshest air from outside into each and every room and hallway using a Merv 13 system.

What we think

When stylish people talk about the San Francisco treat, they’re not often talking about Rice-A-Roni…they’re referring to InterContinental. Here, luxuries abound for guests in each room—from the iPod docking stations to the plush robes that await for raiding the mini bar expertly stocked by their own Bar 888. Starter guest rooms here begin at 330 square feet and a dreamy palette of blues and cloud whites; for even more spacious digs, we love the 720 square foot One-Bedroom Suite, which has a marble-lined bathroom and separate living room overlooking the cityscape. Or make like a Silicon Valley billionaire and book the Terrace Suite—which actually comes with two private terraces ideal for cocktail hour…or working on your next IPO.

You're here because

You j’adore a refreshing swim whenever you’re in a major metropolis; this hotel has an indoor lap pool that’s up to the task, plus a hot tub that’s an instant balm after schlepping up San Francisco's practically alpine streets.

The Moment

Even in San Francisco, where menus are on top of their game, Chef Dennis Efthymiou has brought Mediterranean transcendence to Luce. Included on tonight’s four course menu: a sunchoke tartlet with sturgeon mousse, dusted with golden osetra caviar.

Restaurants & Bars

Bistro 888 - Offers a breakfast buffet, snacks, daily specials, and tasty tea and coffee

Luce - Modern Mediterranean cuisine with European influences

Bar 888 - Enjoy cocktails, local craft beers and wines, and over 100 top-shelf spirits.

Location

The heart of the SoMA district, just two blocks from its namesake, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art—where the collection includes pieces by every artist from Matisse to O’Keeffe.