Where Safety meets Cleanliness in the Heart of the Bay
Hey there, welcome back to another NoCarpetHotels review! Are you ready to explore the vibrant heart of Oakland while staying in a stylish and secure haven? Look no further than the Kissel Uptown in Oakland. I recently had the opportunity to stay for a week in this hotel during a work trip (If you’re staying in San Francisco, read our past review of the Hyatt Regency!). In this new review, we’ll dive deep into this chic hotel’s location, sleek interior design, top-notch safety measures, and those oh-so-charming/clean wooden floors. Let’s uncover why this gem deserves a spot on your Oakland adventure checklist. An added bonus is that they’re a Hyatt Hotel – so rack up those loyalty points!
Heart of Oakland
Let’s kick things off with what matters most in any city adventure or business trip – location! The Kissel Uptown hits the bullseye. Situated smack dab in the heart of Oakland, it’s the epicenter of all things cool and safe. Whether you’re in town for work or play, you’re steps away from some of the city’s coolest spots. With BART stations nearby, you have the entire Bay Area at your fingertips (although not recommended for travel at night). From Jack London Square to the Oakland Coliseum, everything’s within reach. Many restaurants and bars were still open past 9pm and within walking distance to the hotel. This made our group feel safe and made after-work hangouts easy and convenient. Dive into Oakland’s rich culture, arts, and dining scenes – it’s all part of the package here.
Sleek Interior Design
Now, let’s talk interior design because the Kissel Uptown is a visual treat. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a modern, trendy vibe. The lobby is a masterpiece of sleek lines, bold patterns, and a color palette that’s both calming and invigorating. After you walk in, it doesn’t even feel like Oakland anymore!. The common areas are just as on point – think comfy seating areas perfect for work or play. And those big windows flooding the spaces with natural light? It’s a morning bird’s dream come true.
Safe and Secure
When staying in the Bay Area, especially the downtown areas, safety and feeling safe is essential. At Kissel, They’ve got all the bases covered. There is a 24/7 concierge and the front doors to the lobby lock during the evening. In addition, the elevators have proper safeguards, requiring a key card to use. Finally, within the room itself, there is an ample amount of manual locks from the inside for that added sense of safety! It’s all about giving you peace of mind while you explore Oakland’s vibrant streets.
Wooden Floors:
When my company was booking the hotel for us, I was very worried that they might choose a carpeted option! Luckily, at the Kissel, there is wooden and ceramic floors all around! Walking on these polished wooden floors definitely feels clean after a long day of dodging the unclean parts of the city. Right in the middle of the Fall allergy season, the wooden floors were a much needed comfort for me to alleviate those triggers often trapped in hotel carpets.
Delightful Dining Experience
While not having any full meals at the hotel restaurant, I heard glowing reviews from colleagues who have. The hotel’s restaurant serves up a tantalizing mix of local and international flavors. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’re in for a gastronomic adventure. And don’t forget to sample the craft cocktails at the bar – they’re mixology magic. Whether you’re fueling up for a day of meetings or winding down after a day of exploration, dining here is always a memorable experience. Also a nice touch of complimentary water bottles in the room along with lemon water in the lobby to fuel up for the day ahead.
Rooftop Bar Retreat
The rooftop at the hotel provides an oasis in the heart of Oakland. While the location is a bit confusing to find, High 5ive was an amazing spot to unwind after a long day of meetings. A short walk from the entrance to the Kissel, this rooftop bar has an abundance of tables with an indoor/outdoor area to relax and get a few drinks. We ended up at this spot 3 days in a row! The only downside is that i’s closed from Monday-Tuesdays and close early at 10pm on Wednesday – Thursday and 7pm on Sundays.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hotel can make or break your Oakland experience, and the Kissel Uptown is a top contender for style and safety. From its unbeatable downtown location to its sleek interior design, stringent safety measures, and the charming wooden floors, it’s a NoCarpet traveler’s dream come true. Whether you’re lounging at High 5ive, savoring delectable dishes, or exploring the dynamic city, this hotel offers the perfect blend of style and security.