Very Disappointing
For a pricey, high-end hotel, the Palomar was very disappointing. We spent two nights at the end of October. Flashy, trendy decor. The lobby smelled of insecticide - on one hand good, since the bugs were dead, but on the other hardly an auspicious sign). The elevators were not functioning, and often the only way to get an elevator was to take one going up, since on the way down they were always full. It once took 15 minutes to get downstairs. The rooms (we had two) were TINY. The bathrooms were very cheaply done (think Holiday Inn), and came with no amenities besides soap - you had to call every time you wanted something. The restaurant at the hotel was depressingly dreary, with poor service (several requests to simply get a glass of water). On the financial side, they play games with rates - special, highly restricted rates are offered (non-cancellable), but if you wait closer to your stay they have much cheaper rates that are fully cancellable. Hotels are in the business of offering hospitality. Management doesn't seem to care about their guests' comfort or satisfaction, and complaints were routinely ignored. The Palomar in Philadelphia (I've stayed at other Kimpton hotels that are better) doesn't seem to recognize that, leaving its guest angry, frustrated and eager to leave.