Tag Archives: legend

Luxe L’Atelier

Picture 43Radek Cerny has been around the culinary world, and it shows in the sophistication of his successor to local legend Papillon—Boulder’s L’Atelier. The Czech native has cooked everywhere from New York to Vail, getting to know Paul Bocuse and Mick Jagger along the way; and in this spare, subdued “studio,” to translate the name, he distills those life lessons into exquisite contemporary French fare, from Escargots with Potato Foam to Lobster Ravioli with Beurre Blanc to the Sculptured Chocolate “Bag” filled with ice cream, fruit and topped with a mint leaf.

Insider’s Tip: To defray a bit of the cost, come on Tuesdays, when the entire wine list is half-off—or for lunch, a somewhat humbler but no less satisfying affair with housemade pâtés and breads for grilled panini.

It’s Location, Location at Sir Francis Drake Hotel

Looking for classic downtown digs with an offbeat San Francisco vibe?  The Sir Francis Drake Hotel in Union Square offers luxury lounges, romantic suites, and spectacular views of the city, complete with the famous Beefeater doorman to welcome your stay.  Even if you’re not here to lodge, most everyone loves stopping to pose with the most photographed man in the city.Picture 15

Location is the draw of this hotel with the clang of San Francisco’s historic cable cars at the front door and shops like Tiffany & Co. and Hermes just around the corner.  The Financial District and Moscone Center are also within walking distance if you’re in town on business.

Should you choose to stay in for the evening, The Drake boasts two of the most popular venues in the city.  Enjoy a fine Italian/French candlelit dinner at Scala’s Bistro on the main floor, with a menu created by Bravo’s Top Chef Jen Biesty.  Then sip cocktails with San Francisco’s most famous socialite Harry Denton in The Starlight Room, a 1930’s glam lounge on top of the hotel.  It’s a sparkly, starry view from the top floor of the hotel, and you’ll thank yourself for booking your stay here.