San Francisco Treat

I have a soft spot in my heart for old San Francisco, with its seedy, Barbary Coast licentiousness and grubby/grand dichotomies. So imagine my delight checking into the Villa Florence recently for a weekend stay and finding its venerable Powell Street address having undergone a stunning transformation. What was once a down-market budget hotel is now a hip, sleekly modern oasis in the middle of downtown. And the price is still very reasonable. Che miracolo!

The rooms themselves are now Tuscan earth-toned and amenity'd out -- we're talking Boston Acoustics iPod dock, LCD teevees, DVD player, L'Occitane toiletries and even free wireless internet. The lobby still reeks of old-school elegance, with its high-ceilings and Italian villa décor. Staff is exceptionally friendly and accommodating, even letting me use the printer at the front desk when the business center's failed to respond. And with a smile, not a smirk. Much appreciated.

All that and location times three! You are steps from the clang of the cable-car, a thirty-second walk to Union Square shopping and Market Street, and another ten minute stroll to the Moscone Center and the SF Museum of Modern Art. And if the heavens are spewing forth, the Bar Norcini off the lobby is a good call for vino Italiano and a panini. San Francisco is the anti-L.A. -- and the Villa Florence a nice alternative to the stuffier joints at stiffer prices. Ciao, amici!!