"A storied Nob Hill grande dame designed by Julia Morgan and steeped in a century of local lore—rebuilt after the 1906 fires, it was the first U.S. hotel to hire a concierge and has hosted cultural moments from Alfred Hitchcock filming to Tony Bennett’s first performance of his signature song. The property blends historic splendor (chandeliers, marble, a famed penthouse suite with a two-story library) with theatrical touches like the legendary Polynesian-themed Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar; recent renovations across its 606 rooms preserve classic glamour while modernizing comforts and views." - Jessie Beck