San Francisco’s Best Hotel for Views? Four Seasons Embarcadero Raises the Bar

Occupying the top 11 floors of the 48-story landmark 345 California Center building, the Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero is a favorite for its breathtaking views of the city and bay. It is located within easy walking distance of the Ferry Building, Chinatown and Union Square, and even Fisherman’s Wharf is not too far. More than 150 rooms and suites are in the tower’s twin crowns, which sit at 45-degree angles to the rest of the building and are connected by a glass sky bridge. The oversized rooms (the smallest is 350 square feet) feel larger because of the panoramic views and large bathrooms, which feature extra spacious showers and deluxe Codage Paris bath products.

Bathroom view of the Transamerica Pyramid / Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

Upon arrival, we were offered filtered water before being escorted to our suite. It was designed with the iconic skyline in mind, with layers of elements—natural wood floors, hand-tufted wool rugs and custom-crafted furnishings—imparting a residential warmth. The Golden Gate Bridge’s orange-red inspired the palette.

Guest services include complimentary premium Wi-Fi, all-day in-room dining, dry cleaning and pressing, transportation booking and overnight shoeshine. The 24-hour fitness center located on the third floor features a full range of state-of-the-art equipment from Precor.

Orafo, the restaurant and bar, brings traditional Italian craftsmanship to every dish, with cocktails honoring San Francisco’s Gold Rush history. The menu’s farm-to-table, Italian American offerings include citrus and fennel salad with blood orange, grapefruit, Castelvetrano olives, crushed pistachios, arugula and shaved pecorino tossed in a champagne vinaigrette; Crab Louie with local Dungeness crab, Comanche Creek baby lettuces, cucumber and purple radish; cioppino with local seafood; and baby lamb cheeks with mascarpone polenta and tomato ragù.

Cocktail service / Photo: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco

The executive chef, Raul Dominguez, a surfer and fisherman who enjoys a direct connection to Northern California’s coastline and produce, says, “We’re able to showcase food that’s both well-sourced and beautifully executed.”

The hotel is also close to historic Jackson Square, a dynamic hub of culture, Michelin-starred dining and sophisticated living. At the center of this revival is the Transamerica Pyramid, which defines the neighborhood’s panache and is a star of views from the Four Seasons. The area’s preserved 19th-century architecture and charming cobblestone streets beckon guests to take leisurely walks to browse the district’s art galleries, landmarks such as William Stout Architectural Books, and high-end boutiques.

Best For

Spectacular views of the city in roomy accommodations.

Verdict

This splendid hotel offers supreme comfort and luxury in a fantastic location close to Michelin-level dining, drinking, shopping and sightseeing. fourseasons.com