San Francisco Hotel Blog

Delicious on Demand - Food Delivery Apps

mbrandt@personalityhotels.com (Megan Brandt) — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 20:25:00 GMT

During a recent business trip, I got back to my hotel room after a long day and I was tired and starving. My pajamas were calling my name and I just didn't want to venture outside into the unknown. Sound about right?

Well, if I had been in San Francisco, the solution would have been a no-brainer. Food delivery apps are all the rage right now and several delivery service options are available to make your life easier.

These top favorites will deliver fresh, gourmet meals straight to your door (or curb) for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Think "Uber For Meals". Hope you're hungry!

1. Munchery

Order wholesome prepared dinners, handmade by top local chefs using only the best ingredients, for same-day delivery to your home or office. Why it's my favorite: Every time you order on Munchery, they donate to provide a meal for someone in need.

2. Sprig

Browse the Sprig app and select from a daily-rotating menu of seasonal and sustainable meals handcrafted by former Google executive chef Nate Keller. With just a few taps, a Sprig servers will brave rain and fog to whisk your order over faster than you can say "dine on demand."

3. Postmates

Get any product delivered in under one hour. Postmates on-demand delivery platform connects customers with local couriers, who purchase and deliver goods from any restaurant or store in a city.

4. Caviar

Caviar offers delivery from some of San Francisco's favorite restaurants. Browse a picture menu, customize your meal, and get delivery straight to your door.

**Feel like dining out? Check out our Next Best Dinner Guide or Top 5 Lunch Spots In and Around Union Square.

First Timer in SF: What to See and Do

mbrandt@personalityhotels.com (Megan Brandt) — Sat, 07 Mar 2015 01:03:00 GMT

Traveling to San Francisco for the first time can be both daunting and exciting. There is so much to see and do that you're probably asking yourself "how do I fit it all in?" One sure-fire answer: PLAN – or in this case, let us do the planning for you.

Our Utrip planner combined the best must-see attractions with awesome local hangouts into a four day itinerary, perfect for the first timer in SF. Check it out!

DAY 1

MUST SEE Union Square

Union Square is the heart of downtown and plays host to cultural performances, art walks, musicians and performers. With a myriad of restaurant, cafes, boutiques and art galleries, there's endless opportunities to dive into local SF culture.

MUST SEE Chinatown

The largest Chinatown outside of Asian, you can find some exciting eats, gifts and sights wandering through the many little shops that create a colorful backdrop to many SF streets.

DAY 2

MUST SEE Golden Gate Bridge

Come to one of the vista points at either end of this iconic bridge for some amazing scenic photos. Did you know that the Golden Gate Bridge was actually intended to be black and yellow?

MUST SEE Coit Tower

A staple of the SF skyline, Coit Tower is a famous and historic landmark. Take the elevator to the top for beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the surrounding area.

DAY 3

MUST SEE Golden Gate Park

There are endless opportunities for fun, exploration and relaxation in Golden Gate Park. Spanning close to 5 miles from Ocean Beach to Haight Ashbury, this urban park is full of museums, beautiful gardens, and so much more.

MUST SEE Haight-Ashbury

See one of the most famous gathering places in San Francisco, where the free love and hippie movement of the 60s and 70s flourished. Today, the area still exudes counter-culture personality and has a ton of vintage shops, lounges, bars, cafes and restaurants to explore.

DAY 4

MUST DO Ride the Cable Car

The iconic cable car is one of the best ways to explore the city and take in the different neighborhoods and the constant picture perfect moments. Just remember, it's always cash only!

MUST SEE Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Located right on the water, this iconic fishing port is not only good for picking up souvenirs but for indulging in dungeness crab and the world famous sourdough bread bowl and clam chowder at Boudin Bakery.

MUST SEE Lombard Street

Head up to Russian Hill to see Lombard Street, the windiest road in the world. Drive, walk, or take in the incredible view of the bay from this famous landmark.

Utrip: Plan a trip to SF in 3 Simple Steps!

mbrandt@personalityhotels.com (Megan Brandt) — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 17:50:00 GMT

Our Utrip planner lets you experience our beautiful city, San Francisco, in the way that’s most meaningful to you. Using your budget and interests, the planner will give you a day-by-day itinerary, in moments.

Follow these 3 simple steps to turn your San Francisco dreams into a reality:

5 ways to have a sexy vacation

mbrandt@personalityhotels.com (Megan Brandt) — Fri, 06 Feb 2015 22:14:40 GMT

San Francisco is a sexy city, if you know the local secrets. So, to make sure you make the most of your romantic getaway, we've rounded up 5 ways to add some sexy to your SF vacation!

P.S. Below is info you won't get from any tour guide or guide book, guareented.

1. Shop at Les Cent Culottes. Splurge like the French at the city's sexiest lingerie shop. French owner, Sophie Boudet, is just as delicate and feminine as the intricate tulle and lace bras you'll find at the Russian Hill boutique.

2. Have dinner at Foreign Cinema. It's worth making a trip to the Mission to dine under the lights in their outdoor (heated) covered patio. If you're not too busy staring into each other's eyes, admire the foreign and independent films screened nightly on the patio wall.

3. Enjoy a champagne picnic for 2 at Baker Beach. There really is nothing more romantic than the crashing of the surf and some quality together time in nature, as long as you bring those layers! Baker Beach is just one to consider in San Francisco. Here's 10 more outdoor SF date spots.

4. Sip cocktails at Local Edition. This sexy space is located underneath Market Street, literally. The heavy velvet drapes, sconce lighting, and retro jazz club ambiance will have your lover begging for a kiss.

5. Book the 50 Shades of Women package. Take the romance behind closed door and unleash your sexy side with a secret black box full of Christian-and-Anastasia-approved goodies. Sexy vacation? We think YES!

50 Shades of Women... COME AGAIN?

mbrandt@personalityhotels.com (Megan Brandt) — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 01:00:00 GMT

Le'ts be honest here. The 50 Shades of Grey movie trailer is HOT. You pretend not to watch it or care about it, but you're drawn to it, each and everytime. Damn it Christian... put your shirt back on!

All this 50 Shades madness doesn't have to be just a fantasy. You can bring it to life. And as strange as this might sound, we're here to help you.

Trust us, we know what we're doing - we did this before back in 2012 when the book came out, so naturally, now that the film is set to release this Valentine's Day, we're bringing back the goods with an all new sexy treasure chest!

Our 50 Shades of Women COME AGAIN package is creating quite a buzz inside and outside the box. Watch this clip from NBC News to get a peek at what's inside, and hey, if you're ready to take the whip by the handle, click here.

Your Holiday Guide!

Dana Andrews — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 19:06:42 GMT

It's that time of year again. The weather has finally turned, tinting the skies a shade darker, crisping the air, making layered clothing more of a necessity while walking around our beautiful Christmas lit city and we at Personality Hotels could not be cozier! Our gift to you this season: a holiday guide to make your experience in San Francisco feel a little bit more like home, while still on vacation.

Happy Holidays,

the Marketing Babes

Getaway to Monterey

Dana Andrews — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 01:01:00 GMT

Need a break from city life? Take a getaway to Monterey along one of the most scenic routes in the country! And be sure to stop at some of these iconic destinations, both along your way and during your stay.

On your way:

Moss Landing State Beach - surf, fish, or horseback ride if you're feeling zealous! Or just take in the scene, bound to be a relaxing one.

Whole Enchilada - authentic Mexican food with an emphasis on fresh seafood and Oaxacan regional cuisine, this restaurant is legendary for locals and tourists alike. Great for people watching.

Giant Artichoke Restaurant in Castroville - as our newly official state vegetable, go here for the best fried artichokes on the coastline.

Photo by Laura Warren

While you're there:

Cannery Row - for a plethora of activity options from shopping to dining, there's something for everyone in this historic district. Take a stroll or a bike ride and peruse all there is to see. Must-Do: Monterey Bay Aquarium

Fandango Restaurant in Pacific Grove - a romantic and welcoming ambiance makes this french seafood restaurant a go-to for anyone visiting the area and totally worth the price.

Restaurant 1833 - riddled with romance, fire lit rooms and vintage chandeliers, take a step back in time while you dine in wing back chairs in a gorgeously restored historic 1833 house

Mariposa Inn & Suites - known as "Monterey's Best Kept Secret," relax in the heated pool, hot tub, or by the fire on the patio (or in your room) at this romantic hotel.

Going further:

Carmel-by-the-Sea - a stop here is essential for the ultimate getaway. Drive to this quintessential storybook town for some of the finest in art, shopping, and dining.

Morgan's Winery in Carmel - sample the latest vintages known for their artisanal, vineyard-centric qualities in this relaxed tasting room. Also, a little bird told us they have the best pinot noir!

Your Guide to Business Travel in SF

Dana Andrews — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 18:00:00 GMT

Traveling to San Francisco for business can be both daunting and exciting. There is so much to do and see, while at the same time dings on every one of our devices remind us that real work must be achieved. The question lingers, "how to fit it all in?" One sure-fire answer: PLAN – or in this case, let us do the planning for you.

BEGIN: We recommend starting your morning off right with a nice cup of joe. Most San Franciscans tend to lean toward the well-crafted stuff, no Dunkin' Donuts for us. So head to Blue Bottle in the Mint Plaza just South of Market for a gourmet taste of some of the most delectable, heart warming coffee you've ever had, certain to provide a nice, motivating buzz for the work day ahead. Also, be sure to try one of their tasty breakfast items or a quick fix pastry to provide even further sustenance, BUT be prepared for a bit of a line if you arrive during peak hours!*

MEET: Our newly designed meeting spaces at both Hotel Diva

and Kensington Park Hotel are perfect for both larger executive meetings and smaller, more intimate gatherings. Check them all out here to find the one that best suits your needs.

BREAK: Good work! You got through the meeting bit. Perhaps it's time to wind down or maybe you have a little more work to wrap up. Either way, head over to Bartlett Hall for the perfect business man or woman's lunch! A top-notch new American bar meets restaurant - seasonally driven dishes created by Chef Emmanuel Eng are sure to leave your taste buds satisfied. If it's in your lunch regimen, try one of the unique barrel-aged cocktails or locally crafted beers (they have a beautiful gastropub in the back), after all, you're on vacation!

BUY: While you are in one of the fastest growing tech hubs of the world with booming economic growth, you're also in one of the most European cities in the country with a great sense of style. So why not celebrate a successful work day?! Update your wardrobe with a couple, or ten, items from any of the retail stores in Union Square. We've got Neiman Marcus, Saks, Macy's, and Westfield mall all in the same hood and many luxury stores if you really feel the urge to splurge! Also, if you're in need of some indulgent bath products, we highly recommend the sensuously rich products at Art of Shaving or Lush, right around the corner from one another.

DINE: No one loves a good old fashion surf and turf dinner more than after a productive day of hard work, especially while traveling. Our standard go-to steakhouse favorite remains at Morton's, always a reliable quality experience with some of the best meat on the block. If you're looking for something a little fishier, check out the Farallon, offering one of the most extensive seafood menus in town. Go for it, you've earned it!

DRINK: Our go-to's for a great cocktail after a long day at the office remain at Swig or 620 Jones. Each are steps away from Union Square, making for quick access to and from your hotel and a damn good cocktail, guaranteed.

SLEEP: Hotel Union Square is closest to larger convention spaces like the Moscone Center, while the Steinhart Hotel offers a classic, more home-like appeal for long term staying guests.

*Want more guides? Check out our Next Best Dinner Guide or Top 5 Lunch Spots In and Around Union Square

Featured Trip: Shopping & the Arts in SF

Dana Andrews — Wed, 15 Oct 2014 17:01:00 GMT

Visiting SF soon? Well, have we got the city guide for you! Having just partnered with the amazingly helpful Utrip travel planner, we are excited to share one of the many "featured trips" offered, produced by experts in the field when it comes to San Francisco city slickin'.

This featured trip, created by our friend and city expert Jeani Hunt-Gibbon of Union Square Business Improvement District, highlights Shopping & the Arts in SF. And oh, what a fantastic trip it will be! We've even gone ahead and made it easier for you by narrowing the trip down to our top favorite must see's and do's. Enjoy your vacay!

DAY 1:

MUST SEE: Grace Cathedral MUST DO: Shop in Union Square

DAY 2:

MUST DO: Ferry Building MUST SEE: show at ACT

DAY 3:

MUST DO: Ride the Cable Car MUST SEE: Haight Ashbury

*Want to create your own trip? Read our How To Plan Your SF Trip: Utrip!

Q&A with Crystal Kong, Fashion Blogger Does National Ice Cream Tour!

Dana Andrews — Mon, 06 Oct 2014 21:00:00 GMT

Crystal Kong, founder and style blogger at Cryskay, stayed at Hotel Union Square during her first stop in San Francisco as part of her national ice cream tour. As busy as she was during her indulgent days, we caught a moment to speak with her about her experience as an LA fashion blogger and learn more about what inspired this uniquely tasty trip. Enjoy our first of many guest spotlight Q&A's!

the Marketing Babes

MB: How long have you been blogging on Cryskay? How did you start?

CK: I used to have an online journal before it was considered "blogging" and always knew I wanted to get back into it. Three years ago, as a New Years Resolution, I started Cryskay and have stuck with it ever since. It's become my creative outlet and a way for me to archive my personal style.

MB: What inspired your Ice Cream campaign?

CK: My crazy obsession and addiction to ice cream. A friend and I came across the "Best Ice Cream Shops in the US" lists from the Thrillist and Food & Wine and decided that we needed to visit them all. Being that one of the things on my bucket list is to visit all 50 states by age 50, it gave me all the more reason to do this. Neither one of us thought the idea would come to fruition, but slowly & surely it did and now we're here!

MB: What ice cream stores are you planning to hit up/did you hit up while in SF?

CK: There's Bi-Rite Creamery and Humphry Slocombe in the city, as well as Ici Ice Cream in Berkeley and Three Twins Ice Cream in San Rafael.

MB: What's your favorite ice cream place and flavor here in SF?

CK: Hands down, Honey Lavender & Salted Caramel at Bi-Rite. I have dreams about it.

MB: Where else are you going on your trip and where are you most excited to go?

CK: The trip takes us up the west coast to Seattle, over to Yellowstone National Park, back down to Phoenix, across the south through New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, Nashville, up to Boston and ending in New York City. I think I'm most excited about Yellowstone for the scenery and Nashville because it's a city that I've fallen madly, deeply in love with over the years.

MB: What's your idea of the perfect first date ice cream outing outfit in San Francisco?! Which ice cream spot would you go to for this particular occasion?

CK: When in San Francisco, I like dressing in layers because you never know when Karl the Fog will make an appearance. Also, I'm always about comfort so I would probably be wearing jeans (or shorts), a tee, leather jacket and boots. The date would start out at Bi-Rite (but of course). I like picking up the pints there (you get the cut the line) and eating it on the lawn at Dolores Park.

MB: Which ice cream place and flavor has the most Personality in SF?

CK: Again, Bi-Rite Creamery... I'm telling you, I'm obsessed with it! The most personality award would go to their Ricaenelas flavor. It's original, unlike anything I've ever had before - smooth in texture with small chunks of snicker doodle and hints of cinnamon.

Craving more? Read Top 5 Union Square Sweet Treats!