The Carlisle’s slogan, “The City Place for City People,” is fitting: this CCRC is housed in a stately, twelve-story building located in the heart of downtown San Francisco. The condominiums are intended for individuals who are mostly independent. Staff, including medical personnel, is available twenty-four hours a day. The staff is formal but gracious. There is a clinic on the premises, and every apartment is equipped with an emergency call system.The grounds and lovely garden are maintained through condominium fees, and there are regular homeowners’ meetings. The apartments can be left to heirs or sold just like any other property. Each condominium has a balcony; most have a view of the city. Spacious hallways are elegantly decorated and have abundant natural lighting. There is a parlor with a grand piano, a card room for playing bridge, a beauty salon and barber shop, a terrace, and a TV room. The private dining room allows residents to enter tain up to fifty guests, with the help of the chef and kitchen staff, for an extra fee.The Carlisle’s sophistication is evidenced by some of the upscale activities, such as in-house classical concerts, opera videos, book club, bridge games, daily afternoon tea, stimulating mind games and continuing education classes. Maid and chauffeur services add to the sophistication. Interestingly, there is a men’s group but not a women’s group. A full-time activities director keeps a busy schedule; the homeowners pick and choose based on their interests.The kitchen is directed by a French chef and meals are served in elegant, restaurant-style dining rooms. The extensive menu accommodates all tastes. There is a salad bar with a wide variety at every meal. The pièce de résistance is the weekly champagne brunch on Sundays.
