Fantastic hotel in a great location
NOTE: I am reviewing this hotel on a 3-hotel trip that included the W and the Westin, and I will be comparing it to them.
I stayed at this hotel for several nights, and it continued to amaze and delight me at every turn. It is ideally situated directly in the centre of downtown; it is two blocks from a supermarket, one block from the mall, one block from 7-11, and three blocks from the start of the Gaslamp district. However, it is some ten to twelve blocks from the Convention Centre. 
Check-in was smooth, and I requested and was granted a top-floor suite upgrade for the duration of my stay. The bellmen were all nicely-dressed, but I carried my own luggage up to my suite. It was beautiful and regally-appointed, and the beds were plush and comfortable. Ten stories up, there was no road noise (or noise of any kind), no matter the time of day. Breakfast was not consumed on premises, but I did eat in the lounge once during the fantastic happy hour, and the food was very good. The hotel clerks are attentive, and everything was well-cleaned (both in my room and elsewhere). I stayed before the introduction of SPG Platinum Breakfast, so I can't comment on it. To the best of my knowledge, no spa (but this isn't a downside).
In conclusion, a fabulous hotel that is tied for the best in San Diego.