Hotel Vitale

SF’s first luxury organic hotel—but think artisanal cheese, not alfalfa sprouts. Ugly exterior (bane of the neighborhood) countered with soothing inoffensive modern furnishings, dreamy bedding, wicked views of the Embarcadero (be sure to hit the roof decks). Zen vibe marred by loud and boozy happy hour when Financial District shirts swarm the restaurant patio, but mellows out by early evening. Spirituality deluxe. Corner rooms facing the bridge are key.