So dadgum unique, it hurts
This is my second stay at the Pearl - both times for an evening on a work visit. Enough cannot be said for how unique this place is, how much thought is put into little details without using that as an excuse to charge you some ridiculous premium for your room. 
The room is actually 4 stars... modern, minimal, "green" from the paper with the restaurant's specials to the "box" of water. What earns this place 5 stars is the service. From the helpful and charming Savannah at the front desk, or the hospitable Kim overseeing the restaurant and the night's film screening (in this case a documentary), or the kick-butt bartender Emily - a hard working, positive, no-complaints mixologist, they all made my stay absolutely relaxing. Although I had to return to my room to do some work, the bar and restaurant were still pumping (not quiet out there, but I don't mind - they don't stay open late). The food was solid, by the way. 
Miscellaneous: The bed is comfortable. The room is spacious (my first room wasn't so much, but still comfortable). The neighborhood is unique and off the beaten SD path, too, and a marina and bay view are just a 2 minute walk straight out the front door - definitely a relaxing place to have your coffee and watch the local captains. Parking is $10 per night if you use one of their spots, but there are plenty of street spots in the neighborhood, so I passed. 
There are so many other cool little touches that I could elaborate upon (like the bar's bathroom sinks or the comfy, cozy board game area), but you'll just have to see for yourself.