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Tendernob), it was built in 1906 and fully restored in 1998, and whoever renovated the lobby did a smashing job restoring it to its original “Old San Francisco Victorian” splendor, complete with original marble flooring, high ceilings with decorative moldings, and stained-glass panels and alabaster dating from about 1892. Though the rooms are small, they are all handsomely decorated with old-fashioned furnishings such as Victorian antique armoires, rich carpeting, marble bathrooms, brass beds with comforters, and carved-wood nightstands. A pleasant oxymoron: All the rooms are equipped with a plethora of high-tech amenities such as Internet access and personal voice mail. Complimentary pastries and coffee are served each morning, and there’s even free evening wine tasting. The adjacent Colombini restaurant is a good place to refuel on regional Italian cuisine (specialty: risotto) before venturing down the street to Union Square.

835 Hyde St. (btw. Bush and Sutter sts.), San Francisco, CA 94109. www.nobhillhotel.com. 877/662-4455 or 415/885-2987. Fax 415/921-1648. 53 units. $89–$150 double. Rates include continental breakfast. DC, DISC, MC, V. Parking $34. Bus: 2, 3, or 4. Amenities: Adjoining restaurant (Italian); 24-hr. fitness passes available. In room: TV w/pay movies, CD/radio alarm clocks, fax, hair dryer, free Wi-Fi.

Stanford Court, A Renaissance Hotel ★★ The Stanford Court has maintained a long and discreet reputation as one of San Francisco’s most exclusive hotels. Keeping company with the Ritz, Fairmont, Mark Hopkins, and Huntington hotels atop Nob Hill, it’s frequented mostly by corporate execs. The foundation was originally the mansion of Leland Stanford, whose legacy lives on in the many portraits and biographies that adorn the rooms. At first, the guest rooms come across as austere and antiquated compared to those at most other top-dollar business hotels, but the quality and comfort of the furnishings are so superior that you’re forced to admit there’s little room for improvement. The Stanford Court also prides itself on its impeccable service. The lobby, furnished in 19th-century style with Baccarat chandeliers, French antiques, and a gorgeous stained-glass dome, makes for a grand entrance. A thoughtful perk: There is no charge for toll-free or credit card calls made from your room, and complimentary coffee and tea are available with a wake-up call request.

905 California St. (at Powell St.), San Francisco, CA 94108. www.stanfordcourt.com. 415/989-3500. Fax 415/391-0513. 393 units. $169–$189 double; from $209 suite. Continental breakfast $17–$22; American breakfast $21–$26. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Valet parking $45. Bus: 1. Cable car: Powell–Hyde, Powell–Mason, or California–Van Ness line (direct stop). Amenities: Restaurant; lounge; concierge; 24-hr. fitness center; room service. In room: A/C, TV w/pay movies and Web TV, hair dryer, high-speed Internet access ($13).

SOMA

SoMa offers an eclectic mix of lodgings, from the Four Seasons to budget motels. It’s home to the Moscone convention center, MOMA, and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts.

Best For: Conventioneers, W Hotel–types, foodies, clubbers, business travelers, and anyone with an affinity for the arts.

Drawbacks: Beware of seemingly great deals to hotels in sketchy areas. Long blocks mean long walks.

Very Expensive

Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco ★★★ What makes this über-luxury hotel one of my favorites is its perfect combination of elegance, trendiness, and modern luxury. The entrance, either off Market or through a narrow alley off Third Street, is deceptively underwhelming, although it does tip you off to the hotel’s overall discreetness. Many of the oversize rooms (starting at 460 sq. ft. and including 46 suites) overlook Yerba Buena Gardens. Not too trendy, not too traditional, they’re just right, with custom-made mattresses and pillows, beautiful works of art, and huge luxury marble bathrooms with deep tubs and L’Occitane toiletries. Adding to the perks are free access to the building’s huge Sports Club L.A. (the best hotel gym in the city),