The Palace Hotel

Description:

• The original 1875 Palace was one of the world's largest and most luxurious hotels, and every time you walk through the doors here, you'll be reminded how incredibly majestic old luxury really is. Rebuilt after the 1906 quake, its most spectacular attributes remain the regal lobby and the Garden Court, a San Francisco landmark restaurant that was restored to its original 1909 grandeur. A double row of massive Italian-marble Ionic columns flank the court, and 10 huge chandeliers dangle above. The real heart-stopper, however, is the 80,000-pane stained-glass ceiling (good special effects made Michael Douglas look like he fell through it in the movie The Game). Regrettably, the rooms aren't quite as grand. But they're vastly improved and emulate yesteryear's refinement with mahogany beds, warm gold paint and upholstery, and tasteful artwork.

  The Garden Court is famous for its elaborate brunch on special holidays and a scaled-down version on regular weekends. Maxfield's Restaurant, a traditional San Francisco grill, serves lunch and dinner. Kyo-ya, an authentic Japanese restaurant, is highly regarded; and the Pied Piper Bar is named after the $2.5-million Maxfield Parrish mural that dominates the room.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

CitySearch

•  Romantic Hotel 2006 – Audience Winner

Frommer's

•  Recommended 2009
•  Recommended 2010

Other features:

The breathtaking Garden Court serves a Sunday brunch that is perfect for unforgettable occasions.