By Katherine Matuszak
From the rooftop lounge of Hotel VIA, the bustling movement of San Francisco’s South Beach stretches into the distance. The lights of the Bay Bridge sparkle, and boats float lazily out on the South Beach Harbor. The night is chilly, so lean in closer to a heat lamp or head over to one of the fire pits while you sip your bubbly. Close your eyes and savor your moments here, because a stay at Hotel VIA is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Each of the 159 guest rooms exudes a different personality. Perhaps you snatched up the sought-after Park View Suite, which means you spent your morning gazing out on breathtaking views of the iconic San Francisco Hills. Or maybe you’ll spend your night in a Harbor View Room, experiencing sweeping views of the South Bay Marina, the Bay, and East Bay hills.
If your room is just too nice to leave, take a peek at the extensive room-service menu. It doesn’t matter what hour it is, there is someone ready to whip up something for you, whether it’s a midnight snack or a hearty meal. If it’s lunchtime, you have some serious decisions to make. Will you be able to choose just one thing from a menu with such options as the signature VIA Turkey Club, Romaine Hearts and Herb Roasted Chicken, and Poached Prawns with Caesar Dressing?
If you’re craving delicious food with a bit more of a social scene, you don’t have to go far. Right next door to the hotel lobby you’ll find Bar VIA, drenched in natural light from its floor-to-ceiling windows. The space blends seamlessly with the neighborhood ballpark feel of King Street and offers an elegant but approachable place to unwind over drinks and small plates driven by seasonal menus. Led by Chef de Cuisine Leo Batoyon, Bar VIA’s menu serves elevated California favorites intended for sharing. Look forward to dishes like Scallion Crepe served with veggies in a peanut gravy, Vegetable Quiche with confit tomatoes, or Beef Tartare with soft herbs and Thai chili. If today is a ballpark day, expect a playful game-day menu.
Hotel VIA’s name was inspired by the definition of via: “the way to your destination.” So, where are you headed? You only have to cross the street to reach a Giants home game at AT&T Park; Hotel VIA is the only hotel that can boast this proximity. Or do you want a taste of classic San Francisco? Hotel VIA is wonderfully close to the ferry building, Union Square, SFMOMA, and more.
When you finish your adventures, your room will be waiting, with all the necessary creature comforts plus some added luxuries. Slip on a plush terry cloth robe and sip some authentically Italian Illy coffee. Thanks to your room’s smart thermostat, the temperature is just right. Enjoy the complimentary Wi-Fi with unlimited device connections, in-room tablets, and your Smart 4K HDTV. Wherever you end up, you can explore the city knowing you have a little slice of paradise to return to.