If you have ever had the distinct pleasure of being a guest at The Ritz Carlton San Francisco...even the most discerning visitor would agree...something this special must simply rise like cream to the very top.

Sumptuously perched in the finest portion of Nob Hill is an experience so decadent it boggles the mind to call this a hotel. It would be equivalent to referring to a designer based outing in Beverly Hills as mere shopping.

Ritz-Carlton hotels are renowned all over the world for their opulent interiors -- the flawless taste which meets the eye in every possible direction -- but the real beauty lies in the untouched quality of service provided in every aspect of the word. From the moment you arrive in the city, until you sigh as you walk away vowing to return, everything about this experience feels more like a dream than a destination.

When I opted to stay at the Ritz-Carlton on a recent trip to the bay area, convenience and reputation were the driving forces behind my choice. As you enter the complex your eyes are treated to the vision of handsomely attired gentlemen in formal wear -- a delightful reminder of days gone by when guests were spoiled and service was incomparable.

If a visitor should choose to explore, one may wish to turn left and venture to the corner. You will find one of the famous cable cars ready to sweep you off your feet and down to the seascape below. The St. Francis yacht club, Ghirardelli chocolate factory, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39 and a stunning array of waterfront amenities are within walking distance from the historic cable cars that set this city apart from the rest of the world. Imagine if you will, enjoying this amazing part of history, taking in all your eyes can see above the ringing of the cable bell. This is a chance to make some truly unforgettable memories.

Should you opt to turn right from the hotel entrance, in a matter of moments you will find yourself looking down at all of Chinatown with endless shops and restaurants, feeling as though you have stepped back in time with a vast array of cultural delights just waiting for you. The majority of upscale hotels have a concierge to assist with specific wants and needs. The Ritz-Carlton prides itself in taking the service aspect to an entirely new realm where guests are greeted with each visit to the lobby area and needs are anticipated in advance.

The recent multi-million dollar renovation is a tribute to the ongoing desire to provide guests with the finest options available. The Club lounge is now adorned with gorgeous Wassiba and Charapilla wood flooring, handsome new furniture and luxurious interior designer touches accented by new silk wall coverings. It is no surprise this Ritz-Carlton beauty has been the only five-star and five-diamond rated hotel in San Francisco whose dining room and hotel have received the same prestigious award. The signature service and trademark of excellence go hand in hand with the true meaning of the word luxury. The private Club Lounge accessible to Club room guests was in fact ranked #1 in America by Andrew Harper's Hideway Report. The full service concierge, variety of complimentary food and beverages available are coupled with everything a business traveler might require from office amenities to garment pressing at the tip of your fingers.

The best of the best...the piece de resistance is the only five-star rated restaurant in the entire city. With the brilliance of Chef Ron Siegel you may never want to leave. As the first American to earn the "Iron Chef" title, your palette will be delighted to discover the perfect blending of Modern French cuisine with a distinct Japanese influence, an inspired coupling that is nothing short of pure culinary genius. Guests may select from over 1400 fine wines and champagnes graciously presented by Wine Director Stephane Lacroix. Chef Siegel takes pride in delicately combining fresh organic ingredients with the tempting selection of delectable favorites from his menu. If you are not fortunate enough to enjoy the ambiance and unparalleled experience in the dining room a new 'Small Bites and Small Bottles' menu is offered adjacent to the formal dining area affording the most discerning guests the option of memorable bites and world class choices you would not find in any other bar setting. Guests are offered one of the largest half bottle selections in all of San Francisco, modestly priced and served in a casual environment that is both warm and inviting. Just when you thought it could not get any better -- I have saved perhaps the best for last -- mouth watering morsels from the menu personally recommended by Chef Siegel. Suddenly my taste buds are filled with excitement as I dream of my next visit to San Francisco and the Ritz-Carlton hotel...that seems to have it all.