Rated one of the top luxury hotels in San Diego The US Grant, a Luxury Collection Hotel, was high on my list of places to visit. I was in town for a convention and knew I would have to stay here if only for just one night.
Built by Ulysses S. Grant’s son the hotel turns 112 this October (2022) and has one of two original paintings of Ulysses S. Grant at the entryway near the valet. Lots of history here if that’s your thing, ask for the hotel history booklet at check-in and enjoy a walk back in time.
Did you know the fountain outside is designed to look like the chandeliers in the hallways? just turned over.
Booking and Check-In
I booked via the Marriott Stars program which got me points, elite night credit, and a few extra FB credits most are unaware of. If you are staying in luxury hotels and booking direct you are missing out.
My Marriott status was acknowledged along with a special thanks for using the Marriott Stars program. I was given a double upgrade, to a grande deluxe king room, points, and $100 Fb credit to be used at Grant Grille. I was leaving too early for breakfast the next day so they made an exception and applied the $75 breakfast credit to my Fb credit, $175 total to use at dinner. Nice!
Parking
Valet parking is available for $57 a day.
Room
I did enjoy this luxurious room full of molding accents and a wall of pillows on my bed. The lamps and various accents were all classic and chic but somehow the managed to all have USB ports, it can be done.
If I could make one improvement to this room it would be the addition of some art pieces to various large white spaces. Minimalist maybe, but not with this much crown molding.
The robes were heavy and comforting along with a wonderfully designed coffee bar that had all the trimmings.
Bathroom
Spacious and open although no separate tub which you would expect in a luxury hotel the bathroom was well-designed and appointed. Le Chemin bath products at the sink along with extra fluffy towels provided a nice touch.
Dining at The US Grant San Diego
Grant Grill
Used to be a mens only club, no women from 9-3pm. Made the mock turtle soup famous during that time. It wasn’t until 6 female attorneys showed up and demanded they be served, with press in tow.
Attentive service by man who has been serving since 1990. Samuel was my server, sharp and pleasant as he shared some history and out love of good food and the things you could get from another time. Cheers.
Casual unstuffy sophistication.
The evening meal started with honeydew and basil amuse buoche which was light and reminded me of Vietnamese pho.
I ordered a margarita on the rocks with Don Julio tequila, it was excellent and well-balanced. On par with Hoku’s lemon margarita, hmmm. Not quite.
The fresh-made focaccia bread looked like a traditional bread loaf but was light and smooth with flavor throughout. Quite possibly the best focaccia bread I have ever had. The crust was perfectly baked from top to bottom. Not over seasoned as focaccia can sometimes be.
I, of course, had to have the legendary mock turtle soup which included a pouring presentation in a separate copper pot, poured table side and then sherry wine was added. Light and flavorful with just the right amount of meat added for every bit. Adding the sherry is highly recommended.
For the main course I went straight to the 38-day dry aged ribeye, medium rare, consistency was even throughout the steak. Not as tender as I would have thought but the dry aging was evident in every bite. The peppercorn sauce was light and not overpowering, as a steak lover I am not sure it was better this way or “undressed”, the potato Au gratin was light and perfectly cooked, and the cheese topping was sharp and lively. Green beans were crunchy and fresh
For dessert, I sacrificed for you the reader, and ordered the sticky toffee pudding. The bread pudding is warm and moist and the pecan ice cream is homemade, heaven with pecan nuts and blackberries. Delicate flavors with bold accents.
Final Thoughts
Travel in time to another definition of luxury and design at the US Grant San Diego. The Grant Grille delivered not only an exceptional meal but an intimate experience that comes from a staff that knows people just as well as the menu. I wish I had stayed longer but maybe on a return trip to San Diego.
Have you stayed here? Share your experience with other travelers below so we can all benefit.
