Asta, one of San Francisco’s most popular fictional canines, lived the high life with those icons of madcap merriment, The Thin Man’s Nick and Nora Charles.
Call it the optimistic spirit of the season, but we’re imagining how a 21st century Asta might like to spend his holidays now that the economic downturn is turning upward again.
THE FAIRMONT NOB HILL, SAN FRANCISCO
Where would Asta feel more at home than San Francisco’s Nob Hill? Since 1907, the historic Fairmont Hotel has presided over San Francisco’s “nobs” (otherwise known as the 1%). With views of Huntington Park and 360 degrees of city skyline, and just a few steep blocks from the shops of Union Square, The Fairmont is widely considered the epicenter of sophisticated San Francisco.
And the hotel is at its most inviting during the holidays. The lobby glows with traditional decorations: a ceiling-tickling Christmas tree, the Molinari Family Nutcracker Collection, and the Fairmont’s legendary gingerbread house. This year’s colossal confection, made from thousands of home-baked gingerbread bricks and 2,000 pounds of royal icing and candy, stands more than 22 feet tall.
But what’s in it for Asta? Why, the Pampered Pooch Package, of course! Available year-round, the package includes:
- A special doggie biscuit
- Bottled water served in Fairmont doggie bowls
- A gleaming dog tag as a welcome amenity
- A Fairmont dog bed for cozy naps during your stay
- A dog-walking map
- Waived $75 pet cleaning fee
Need to stretch those pedicured paws? Take a stroll through charming Huntington Park, festooned with holiday lights, then head downhill to get your heart warmed by one of Bay Woof’s favorite San Francisco scenes: the adoptable puppies and kittens on display in Macy’s Holiday Windows, just off Union Square (see page 7 for more about this annual tradition).
THE WATERFRONT HOTEL, JACK LONDON SQUARE, OAKLAND
Nick, Nora, and Asta were urbane to the tips of their ears, but they never turned tail on the chance for an adventure. If your own Asta is hankering for a walk on the wilder side, how about a stay at Jack London Square? There she can follow in the wolf tracks of Jack London, who spent his boyhood on the Oakland waterfront before writing The Call of the Wild. This vibrant landmark — now a hub for outdoor recreation, entertainment and events, shopping, and dining — warmly welcomes the modern-day cousins of Buck and White Fang.
A stay at The Waterfront Hotel makes it easy for you and your favorite canine to explore Jack London Square’s holiday delights. The hotel is dog-friendly, of course, providing all pups with a dog bed, water bowl, and treats. Guests also receive the hotel’s “Joy of Life Guide for Dogs” listing the East Bay’s many dog-friendly parks, trails, and activities. With loads of complimentary amenities, winter savings packages, and harbor views worthy of an old sea dog, the Waterfront Hotel is a great deal.
Thirsty, but not necessarily for martinis? Join the spirits of Nick, Nora, and Asta as they go “slumming.”
At Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon, all kinds of untamed spirits abound, including Jack London’s — it’s said he sketched notes for The Sea Wolf there at his favorite table, still in use today. Or stop by what some call the Bay Area’s best craft-beer bar, Beer Revolution. This funky joint features abundant microbrews on tap, a friendly atmosphere, and a dog-friendly patio. Step next door to Souley Vegan, also funky and dog-friendly, for healthy southern-style eats that earn raves from carnivores, too.
RITZ-CARLTON HALF MOON BAY
Budget big enough for puttin’ on the dog this season? Even Asta will be impressed by the Great Gatsby atmosphere at the Ritz-Carlton golf and spa resort hotel down the coast in Half Moon Bay. It’s a splurge you and your best furry friend won’t forget.
The resort’s Posh Pooch Package includes luxury accommodations in pet-friendly guest houses, a plush doggy bed, a Ritz-Carlton water bowl, a Ritz-Carlton flying disc or chew toy, a gourmet welcome treat, one epicurean item from the Chef’s Pampered Pooch menu, and a “woof” privacy sign for your door to alert staff to a canine on the premises.
If possible, plan your stay to include the monthly Yappy Hour on December 20. Held the last Thursday of each month on the resort’s Gazebo Lawn, these events offer the canine clientele complimentary treats, toys, and flavored waters, along with a special “Yappetizer” menu. For what the resort calls the “ultimutt” luxury, indulge in a Pooch and Parent 15-minute massage. Ritz-Carlton Yappy Hours also feature specialty-priced drinks and cocktails, music, and the striking ocean views for which the resort is renowned.
Located on expansive grounds overlooking the Pacific, the Ritz is a jumping-off point for miles of coastal trails. Other memories to make with your mutt:
Hike Montara Mountain.
Run around in the surf at Montara State Beach.
Grab a bite at the hotel’s Ocean Terrace or visit the Half Moon Bay Brewing Company for great outdoor seating with harbor views.
As part of its Community Footprints initiative, the Ritz-Carlton donates a portion of dog-related proceeds to the Peninsula Humane Society.
Deborah C.Z. Hirsch, Bay Woof’s assistant editor, recently adopted a marvelous terrier mutt, Demimonde, who just might be a very distant cousin of Asta’s on his wild side.
ASTA RECOMMENDS:
Pet-friendly polices can change, so always phone ahead.
San Francisco
The Fairmont Hotel
950 Mason St., San Francisco
415-772-5000
Pampered Pooch Package: From $299/night
Jack London Square, Oakland
The Waterfront Hotel
10 Washington St. at Jack London Square, Oakland
510-379-5293
Winter Special: From $99/night; book by December 15 for stays through February 2013
Heinold’s First & Last Chance Saloon
48 Webster St., Oakland
510-839-6761
Beer Revolution
464 3rd St., Oakland
510-452-2337
Souley Vegan
301 Broadway, 510-922-1615
Half Moon Bay
The Ritz-Carlton
1 Miramontes Point Rd., Half Moon Bay
650-712-7000
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Main article photo by: The Fairmont SF
