The Claremont Resort and Spa • SF NACE

Over the years I can't tell you how many times I've driven past the Claremont Resort and Spa, nestled just above College Avenue in Berkley, and never had the occasion to step inside. Well that all changed recently when I attended an industry function hosted by the National Association of Catering Executives, at this stunning venue.

This image is from the Claremont website.

This was one of the first industry events I've been to where many people from the hotel staff were not only in attendance, but were mingling with the guests instead of standing off on the sidelines, and I have to say I really liked that! From talking to the bartender to their event and sales staff members it was a real treat to hear more about the venue from many different perspectives.

The Lobby

Oooooh a massage sounds good!

For the Dinner hour these beautiful, low profile ikebana styled centerpieces were provided by Karen Hsu of Grandiflora. Linens by Classic Party Rental.

The food was excellent! Set up as buffet stations it was nice to see exactly how the room would look for a reception. I was so buy taking pictures of the food I neglected to get a shot of the room but if you'd seen the food? You wouldn't blame me for being distracted. The entire menu for the evening was well planned in that there was basically something for everyone from vegans to meat eaters. I only ate the smoked fish and sushi, and a few desserts so I can absolutely say they were delicious! Especially the little dessert that was like a little cookie on top of cherries on top of chocolate and something else that was yummers, I can't remember exactly what it was but it was delish!

All the sushi you could eat!

Cheese please!

Desserts galore!

Here was the entire menu for the evening:

Smoked Fish Display Station
Smoked Trout, Sturgeon, Salmon & Smoked Oysters
California Rolls
Blinis, Creme Fraiche and Caviar
Paragon Signature Dish
Ahi-tuna Tartare with Taro Root Chips

Pasta Station
Porcini and Truffle Ravioli
Wild Mushroom Ragout with Light Herb Jus

Salad Station
Baby Spinach & Frisee with Goat Cheese, Almonds, Raspberries Tossed in a Raspberry Vinaigarette

Gazpacho Soup

Grilled Vegetable Medley:
Mushrooms, Asparagus, Onions, Potatoes, Zucchini, Summer Squashes, Tomatoes and Eggplant

Carving Station
Roasted NY Tenderloin of Beef
Assorted Mustards, Horseradish, Zinfandel Jus

Colorado Rack of Lamb
Marinated in Rosemary and Garlic

Dessert Station
Cherries Jubilee
Assorted Petit Fours from Chef Claus and Team

Coffee Station
Freshly Starbucks Coffee and Tea

A petite, cocktail table arrangement from Grandiflora.

From the hotel is a beautiful view of downtown San Francisco.

This image was taken from the Claremont website.

If the idea of an elegant venue that offers both indoor and outdoor ceremonies is what you're looking for but you don't want a traditional skyscraper hotel? This may be the perfect place. The exterior in particular evokes a feeling of the Grand Hotel featured in the movie Somewhere In Time with Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour which, imo, is the most romantic movie ever made.

There will be a part two to this post with 6 more gorgeous floral displays by Grandiflora and a hilarious recounting of a table decorating competition I participated in that evening so stay tuned!