Top Three Hotels in Center City Philadelphia, PA

Whether its lunch, tea a business meeting or any other special occasion such as a wedding feast (reception), night on the town, honey-moon in the city or raunchy weekend romp with your man, these are the places all within walking distance of Rittenhouse Square and the Art Museum to do the deed. They are even ideal for visitors like in-laws grandparents any cousins you love but can't fit into your smaller home.

The Rittenhouse Hotel's Mary Cassatt Lounge is a remarkable oasis in the heart of Center City. Just around the corner from the Smith and Wollensky Steakhouse it lies directly across from reception. There are lovely comfy couches and chairs to recline in and a small number of tables for four facing a small outdoor formal British Garden. The menu is small but cover a classic English tea with sweet truffles and finger sandwiches and scones. They can be combined many ways to please your entire party or order a la carte for a party of one.

The Grill at the Sofitel has a marvelous selection of true martinis featuring my favorite The Grey Goose: A classic Gin martini which Bond himself would certainly bless. The windows over look Sansom Street and along the other wall, 17th, which are not heavily trafficked and are quite perfect for people watching. Sometimes the rhythm of strangers feet can be most soothing. I also noticed but have not tried the wine flights and wine classes which I believe are held monthly and there is a printed schedule available in the first floor rear dining room (Cassandra's).

The front door staff are marvelously attentive and great at opening and closing the heavy glass doors and calling cabs or the valet for you This is the key so many American hotels at all price points have lost track of. Every time you enter a luxury hotel it should feel seamless and special just like your wedding reception was. The Sofitel's concierge desk is immediately to your right upon entering, and there is no way an out of towner or first time guest could ever be lost for more than 20 seconds, if that.

The Four Seasons' Swann Lounge is a great place for Brunch, Cocktails or any meal really. It features stunning views of The Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the famous and recently restored Swann Fountain and trees surrounding it. I always especially enjoy the made to order omlette station which is part of every morning's Buffet ($26). The fresh squeezed juices are also a hit. The fresh yogurt and ripe fruit selection is extensive. The two bacon choices, sausage and potatoes are lean plump and meaty without the extra fat of standard breakfast meats and they not at all greasy, just filling and protein rich. The coffee is black and strong but balanced and never bitter. I can't imagine a better start to the morning. And the staff is so warm, attentive and intuitive you may never want to go home again!