Boutique Hotels are a big thing at the moment, and every country I visit is becoming more and more encrusted with them. The problem that is starting to affect a number of them, is that they are starting to suffer from the same problem as main-stream hotels (that they are becoming more of the same, and have no local identity).

The Clift manages to still convey a uniquely San Franciscan identity, which was something I liked. Also a bonus for a Boutique Hotel, it doesn't have tiny little rooms. Actually, my rom was quite big and spacious. It even had a treadmill in it's own Alcove, which was nice – especially if you like to run naked in the mornings…

Room

The room was spacious, if a little impersonal. The bed was comfortable, and the bathroom was (very) minimalist. Possibly too minimalist. When there isn't anywhere to stand your toothbrush, then I personally think that they may have taken it slightly too far…

Food

The Hotel's restaurant (Asia De Cuba) is the only place I've ever encountered in the world that serves a fusion of Asian and Cuban cuisine. The food is really good, although the portions are massive (and according to the waiters, designed to be shared), and it's not cheap. Dining alone as a business traveller was always a strange experience, as there were always masses of food left on my plate, and I was the only person alone in the place.

Bar

The bar appears to be a bit of a San Francisco event. The prices are possibly even higher than London prices, so you tend to encounter the more affluent San Franciscans along with the tourists and the business people. A single Corona will set you back $8, and as in most places in America, a 15% tip is now considered to be the minimum for getting served (Good service gets more), so you're looking at a practical cost of $10 per beer. Something quirky about the bar is the portraits on the walls. Keep an eye on them, but I won't ruin it for you.

Location

Being a very short walk from Union Square, The Clift is in a fantastic location. The BART (San Francisco's answer to the Tube) is 5 minutes walk away, as is the historic Cable Car. Fishermans Wharf and North Beach are easy to get to, as is China Town, and the Mission District.

Staff

The Clift's staff are dressed in a smart, informal way, with Dress Shirts (and at the time I was there, Gray Sweaters), and Black Trousers, but no ties. I liked the slightly less formal dress, and the friendly manor, and felt it was a big part of the hotel's charm.