The traditional guestroom offers one king or two double beds and accommodates a maximum of four guests. Oversized double beds comfortably sleep two, and these rooms seem larger than the king-bed rooms (though they are not) because of the wide space between beds. For working people, the large desk with pad and ergonomic chair is a treat.

Pike Street Caf? - Locally famous for its extravagant dessert buffet on Friday and Saturday nights, this quiet breakfast/lunch/dinner spot offers a long row of stylish, semi-private booths looking down on Pike Street. Steaks, pasta, and Northwest-accented seafood highlight the menu. The caf?'s fare is also available in The Gallery Bar and lounge located in the lobby. Driving directions from Sea-Tac: Exit the airport onto SR-99 north. Bear right and exit onto SR-518 west. Follow for 1.2 miles and exit from the left lane onto 1-5 north. Follow 1-5 north 10 miles to the Seneca St. exit. Follow the exit west to Sixth Ave. Turn right and follow Sixth Ave. for 2 blocks. The hotel entrance is located on the right side between Pike St. and Union St.

Amenity highlights: Instead of the customary view-restaurant, this hotel placed a view-pool on its top floor. It's worth a visit to the health club and pool for this alone. Exercise-machine devotees enjoy the same panoramic view as swimmers. At 40 feet long, the pool is just long enough for quick laps. In rooms, massage showerheads invite lingering in tub showers, which are outfitted with clever bowed-out shower curtains to create a sensual sense of space.

Insider tip: As an integral part of the open lobby, the cozy, sunken Gallery Bar is not only great for people-watching, but also for people-meeting, when cigars are lighted and a fireplace warms up conviviality. Meal service is available here, too. Just ask for a menu.