Hotel Vitale in a Nutshell:
Hotel Vitale opened in 2005 with a focus on vitality, a reflection of its chosen name. The layout of this luxury hotel succeeds in creating positive energy via a mellow beach-toned color scheme, picturesque views of the Embarcadero waterfront, and a friendly and courteous staff. Guests will appreciate the plush beds and comfortable couches in each room. From couples massages to yoga, activities at Hotel Vitale center around relaxation and can leave visitors who take advantage of them feeling revitalized.
Guest Rooms at Hotel Vitale:
Before booking at Hotel Vitale, decide whether to request a room on the city side or the bay side. On the city side, rooms are 40 square feet larger, but guests miss out on the scenic view. Another difference is the toiletries; on the city side, guests receive complimentary Fresh Soy Organics shampoo, conditioner, and moisturizer. City-side rooms are furnished with locally produced Lather brand sundries that are nice, but not as luxurious. Showers at Hotel Vitale are made for romance, with two showerheads and a bench in the spacious wet zone.
Dining at Café Americano in Hotel Vitale:
Hotel Vitale's Café Americano has received four stars on Yelp, CitySearch, UrbanSpoon, and OpenTable. Located off the hotel's main lobby, this hot spot is especially lively Wednesday through Friday nights during cocktail hours. The best bet for romantic drinking and dining is early on Saturday night. The menu is Italian American with fresh local products sprucing up classic favorites such as steak with a mushroom and sunchoke purée. Hotel guests can avoid crowds altogether by having meals delivered to their rooms 24/7.
Destination Weddings at Hotel Vitale:
Hotel Vitale offers modest wedding packages with spaces that provide a unique backdrop and can accommodate up to 150 guests. From the hotel’s various outdoor decks and sprawling lawns, the bride, groom, and guests have a magnificent view of the water and Ferry Building marketplace. Preferred vendors are listed for everything from cakes to wedding planners. Catering is provided by the hotel’s restaurant, which can provide wedding brunches, lunches, multi-course dinners, and cocktail events.
Romance Packages at Hotel Vitale:
Romantic getaways are indulged at Hotel Vitale. The in-house spa contains a private couples massage room that overlooks the Bay Bridge. Packages are available that include massages and meals at Café Americano, or even breakfast in bed for couples looking to never leave their room. Special packages are created for each season and are outlined on the hotel website.
Activities at Hotel Vitale:
The romantic allure of Hotel Vitale is its spa, located on the top floor. Couples massages are available, but as there is only one room equipped for two, it is essential to book dual massages ahead of time to avoid disappointment. There are also outdoor soaking tubs that are close enough so that couples can enjoy the calming water treatments together. An early morning yoga class is held daily. Guests should inform the front desk if they are interested in participating a day in advance; class locations vary. A small, 24-hour fitness facility is also on the premises.
Nearby Hotel Vitale:
The Ferry Building stands directly across the street from the hotel. A San Francisco gem, the historic (circa 1898) building features products from the Cowgirl Creamery, Miette Cakes, Ferry Plaza Wine Market, and many other top local producers. A sprawling outdoor farmer's market opens here on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Hotel Vitale is also a short distance from the Gordon Biersch Brewery. The lovely Embarcadero waterfront pathway provides a safe area for romantic evening waterfront walks.
What Could Be Better at Hotel Vitale:
Female guests may have trouble applying makeup in the dimly lit bathroom. It’s fine for romance, but impractical for lighting a face. Also, as there’s no shower curtain, water tends to wet the floor. Keep the fluffy slippers that are provided nearby to avoid slipping on the post-shower slick floor. Note that there is no pool or hot tub in the hotel. Guests are entitled to free access to a nearby YMCA. However, that facility is no day spa; it’s dedicated to athletic pursuits. And it may be hard to find: Staff was unclear on exact directions and there was no map.
Hotel Vitale Vibe:
Luxurious Hotel Vitale makes a good first impression, and that sticks. In the lobby there’s a comfortable seating area, a welcoming staff, and the lovely calming scent of lavender and lemon. You won’t find droves of children running through the halls, nor will you see college-aged people staggering around looking for a party. At Hotel Vitale the clientele primarily consists of couples, and twenty-something to middle-age business people who appreciate a leisurely out-of-town stay.
Hotel Vitale Info and Reservations:
Hotel Vitale
8 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
888-890-8688
Hotel Web Site
8 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
888-890-8688
Hotel Web Site
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As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with a complimentary accommodations and meals for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy.
