Post #516887 by TikiG on Fri, Mar 12, 2010 2:05 PM

In March of last year, I was a guest of the Fairmont Hotel. Two days - my very first visit.

I was rewarded with an absolutely beautiful view of the San Fransisco Bay from my room in the sky (classic Bay, Alcatraz, Coit Tower, North Beach, Fisherman's Wharf scene in front and below me...STUNNING is how to describe it.)

As expected, The Tonga Room was filled to capacity too - with a decent line waiting just to get into the bar area both days I was there. Forget about dining unless you had a reservation...I made mine weeks in advance. It was because of posts here on TC that my decision to make the pilgrimage to SF was made.

The consensus with people I met and talked with at the Fairmont, both public or hotel staff, was the Tonga Room was a definite future casualty. Positively the vibe was "enjoy it while you can." No secrecy and no sudden closure. The Fairmont I feel is giving ample time for those who love Poly-Pop to enjoy a single first-time visit or relive fond memories of the Tonga Room a few more times with family and friends.

In retrospect...and this is my opinion for what its worth:

The Tonga Room has no chance of long term survival because of the location of the Fairmont Hotel. No room to spread out - but of course plenty of room to build UP. Location, view and desirability. The windowless Tonga Room I hate to say, has no chance of competing with Fairmont's main attribute - its location on top of Nob Hill.

I'm stoked the Tonga Room has lasted one year past my initial visit and I'll be in line to sign a on-line petition (Thanks John-O for questioning this) - but in my heart I think time is indeed running out for the Tonga Room. :(

[ Edited by: TikiG 2010-03-12 14:17 ]