Philadelphia
Pennsylvania


The Experience

Five grand marble columns flank the staircase entryway of Philly's Ritz-Carlton, making for an even grander entrance than other Ritz's. Thank its history: The domed, Pantheon-style entryway and lobby was built in 1908 with 9,000 tons of Georgian marble for the Girard Trust Company. And since its opening in 2000, this hotel has maintained the formal feel of a hushed bank, one whose vault now houses a clubby, clandestine lounge and whose Roman-bust-covered, oculus-lit circular main floor serves as a serene lobby bar. And when it's time to withdraw yourself, you'll find the hotel is perfectly situation across the street from City Hall and just two blocks from the Avenue of the Arts.

The Rooms

Carved from the bank's former office tower, guest rooms befit their original purposes as executive suites. With contemporary cherry desks, muted, masculine tones, wireless Internet and city views, they still feel more like comfortable cubbies for after-hours work than retreats from real life. Requesting a southern-side room, away from heavily trafficked Broad Street, will help. Those accustomed to the Ritz's typically generous standard room size will doubtless notice a more modest, cozier layout here -- in other words, if you're going to spend any time in your room, upgrade. And to feel like a bank president, grab the two-bedroom penthouse, onetime home of (yes) the bank president, now outfitted with antique statuary, gleaming chandeliers and oversized king beds.

The Service

Doormen in top hats and brass button vests offer flawless greetings and friendly passage inside -- even if you're wearing a Cowboys jersey. No-nonsense concierges sport Secret Service-style earpieces and suits and are known for their ability to score 8 o'clock dinner reservations at impossible-to-get-into restaurants.

The Highlights

The Rotunda lobby, with its soaring columns and satin-cushioned curved banquettes backed by rose marble, provides a sophisticated spot for an elegant afternoon tea and scones. However, the setting's biggest selling point is its ability to transform a simple, off-hours meal of burger, fries and a glass of pinot into a positively refined dining experience. The Grill's deep leather booths, handsome hunting-scene drapery, and expense account filet mignons recall the days when power lunches were a meal with the boys at the club. But you can also do something old-time bankers never could: head to the Richard D'Ambra Spa for classic treatments and aromatherapy rubdowns in candlelit rooms.

-- Lauren McCutcheon

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