I have stayed at the Vitale a number of times when returning to SF on business and although I keep on returning I can't quite work out why!?
The location is definitely the major plus...right opposite the Ferry Building and great for a walk along the Embarcadero after arriving off the plane.... $2 on the F Tram to Union Square or Fishermans Wharf. The views are also good if you get them with your room (but not so good I would pay more for). The staff are excellent and the welcome from the reception staff is always warm and genuine - in fact all the staff I have ever come into contact with have been good.
The rooms are OK for this level of hotel and price point - comfortable, good temperature, quiet, free internet, reasonable toiletries and comfortable beds. Some of my colleagues particularly like the muted and calming colours - fern greens, browns etc but I prefer a bit more vibrancy. Bathroom is OK but both the plug arrangements in the bath and basin would not hold water this time. Minor niggles are the small ironing board (OK, so at least there is one and the plus is an iron that doesn't deposit water on the garment when on steam) and a ton of junk on the desk which I clear away so I can work and which reappears every time the room is cleaned.
The restaurant is fine and if you want a change there are lots of good eating places nearby. I've never found the upstairs deck area some others have found, and it would be really nice to have a bar where guests can relax without having to compete with the local 'after work crowd'.
So I'll probably be back next time....the Vitale works but I just don't get the 'wow' that other reviewers clearly get.
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