The San Francisco Palace Hotel

The Bay Bridge is less iconic than the Golden Gate to San Francisco, but I can't help getting excited no matter which route I take into the city if I have been away for awhile.

The call box ruined my shot from the car window, but c'est la vie!

Today we are destination Market Street and the famous Palace Hotel.

Resurrected after the earthquake and fire at the turn of the last century, the hotel has also been somewhat lately restored and is as breathtaking as ever. But my visits are always about the Pied Piper Bar and the Garden Court Restaurant.

It's hard to get a bad meal in San Francisco, but for me the Palace Hotel is not about the food, which is crazy expensive.

It's about the visual treat instead. Its history, unforgettable beauty, and inspiration.

Enter the promenade on Market Street and the hall will lead you straight through to the other side. But first you will encounter the Pied Piper Bar. So named because of the painted mural by Maxfield Parrish.

Famous for his dreamy subjects and colors, especially that "Parrish blue" sky, Maxfield Parrish was the most successful commercial artist of his time. The hotel is located downtown in the business district, and the bar caters to the business crowd. If you want to try something from the grill, the truffle fries are

the rave. Bring LOTS of cash.

But the main entrance holds the most enchantment where fresh flowers always adorn the marble topped table to greet guests.

At center is the lush and opulent Garden Court which a hundred years ago accommodated horse drawn carriages dropping off guests.

Now you merely enjoy a fabulous meal beneath the glass dome ceiling.

Purple can be the only suitable color for a Palace.

Table service is elegant and simple.

Afternoon tea, a tad more indulgent. . . .

The Palace Hotel has catered to Kings and Queens, and famous visiting celebrities from Mark Twain to modern Presidents. And now,  you and me. I hope you enjoyed the visit!

Ciao! for now!

Jacqueline