Review: The LINE SF

Why book?

Embodying San Francisco’s modern arts scene, The Line is for those who want to explore the city in style. The flatiron building stands at the corner of Turk and Market, with cultural hotspots like SFMOMA and Union Square all within a short walk away. Decorated with local art and serving some world class multicultural cuisine, it captures everything there is to love about a stay in the Bay Area. From the rooftop bar to the weekend pilates classes, this is typical San Francisco at its best.

Set the scene

Step inside, and watch as San Francisco's vibrant art scene comes to life. Upon entering the hotel's lobby, guests are greeted by an awe-inspiring wall sculpture by local artist Sasinun Kladpetch, which combines discarded and upcycled items for a sensory-stimulating art installation. The lobby also boasts a live-art chandelier by Brute Botanicals and a photo light box by Laura Plageman, while carefully curated pieces from celebrated local artists adorn the walls around the hotel, from Cannon Dill, JP McNicholas, and Cinque Mubarak. It attracts art lovers and creative foodies alike, who don’t mind sipping a cocktail on the rooftop and discussing the city’s latest exhibitions.

The backstory

As a contemporary interpretation of the area’s historic architecture, the flat iron-inspired building was designed by Handel Architects with a conceptual design by the renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). Recently opened just last year, it follows The LINE's design ethos of their other properties, showcasing both the past and the future. Visually shaped by the neighborhood’s old architecture, while also contributing an edgy new addition to Turk Street, The Line Hotel brought an unexpected twist to what art and lodging can do together in San Francisco’s hotel scene.

The rooms

Merging the subdued yet bold Victorian-inspired color palette of San Francisco's architecture with modern comforts, each room features views of the downtown skyline from large square windows. Of the 236 guest rooms, take the Corner Studio Room, with a king bed, wraparound windows, deep soaking tubs, Cowshed bath products and moody amber lighting. Yet what might stand out though is the choice of tagged graffiti headboards across all rooms. Pushing the boundaries of traditional luxury by embracing the city’s art scene into the room design, results in a unique and captivating experience.

Food and drink

Quickly becoming one of the city’s stand-out fusion restaurants, Tenderheart features a comforting communal atmosphere with flavorful dishes. Showcasing Executive Chef Joe Hou's Taiwanese-American roots and the Bay Area's diverse culinary heritage, the menu is filled with Northern California delights like Salt & Pepper Cauliflower, Sweet & Sour Quail, or a whole Fogline Farm Roast Chicken. Using only fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, take a front-row seat at the chef's counter and watch Chef Hou and his team in action. Pair your meal with one of Tenderheart's expertly crafted cocktails or head up to the roof top bar for a late night drink. Beverage Director Danny Louie has reinvented classic drinks in their back-of-house laboratory.

The spa

Indulge in a relaxing massage from the comfort of your room with Soothe spa. From sports massage to a smooth Swedish massage, easily schedule your own treatment on the mobile wellness platform available at The Line. As one of the largest and most popular mobile wellness platforms in the world, it’s all about convenience and comfort as you never have to leave your own room.

The neighborhood/area

If you don’t mind mostly concrete around your hotel, then The Line is a great spot to be close to lots of different offerings. Within a few blocks is the historic Warfield concert venue, loads of museums and galleries, and the Powell Street BART station for easy access to other districts.

The service

With thoughtful and deliberate staff, the hotel strikes the right level of customer service without being over the top. While the dining may appear upscale at first glance, it’s designed to reflect the variety of the city, so a strict dress code is not expected and it’s surprisingly more casual than you might think.

The Line has considered all the little details, too. They also offer a personalized bicycle cruise, with a custom fleet of Priority Bicycles exclusively available at The Line. Featuring convenient belt drive technology that requires minimal maintenance while providing a smooth riding experience on San Francisco hills, you’ll be able to explore the city with added style and flair.

For families

While the rooms are not family-friendly as such, The Line welcomes your four legged friend. As one of the few pet-friendly luxury hotels in downtown, your pooch can tag along for free. The Line also offers a complimentary pet bed and bowl, as well as LINE x Neobites Dog Treats so your pet doesn’t feel left out of the indulging getaway.

Anything left to mention?

If you thought this place couldn’t get more San Francisco-like, you’ll also find weekend pilates classes from Alonzo King LINES Ballet. The pop-up event is just another way the hotel is trying to bring the city to you.