Getting to Know 181 Fremont’s Concierge, David Mertens

For residents of 181 Fremont, walking through the front door is like crossing a threshold into another world. Not only are they surrounded by stunning architecture and meticulous design, residents have the undivided attention of the service staff, including Head Concierge David Mertens. We sat down with David to learn more about him and his role in catering to any wish and whim of our homeowners.

Welcome to the 181 Fremont team! Tell us a little about yourself:

I am a native San Franciscan, born and raised. I’ve traveled all over the world and I’m passionate about family, friends, health, food and wine.

What services do you offer 181 Fremont residents?

Our 181 Fremont concierge program offers five-star, hotel-style concierge services such as assistance with arranging dining reservations, tickets to entertainment and cultural venues, private shopping experiences, access to trusted service providers around the city and much more.If you’re throwing an intimate dinner party in your penthouse and need a private chef and florist, call me. If you’re planning a surprise anniversary soiree and need logistics covered, I’m here to assist. I also maintain the amenities level to help make it an extension of residents’ homes.

What’s something that a resident might not know you can help them with?

Everyday errands. Why do it yourself and run all over the city when your concierge will do it for you? I’m here to make residents’ lives easier, so they can pass their daily tasks to me like, pick up your Jimmy Choo purchase at the Union Square store or handle a drop off and pick up for your luggage repair.

With the holidays upon us, what are some ideas of how residents can use your services to get a helping hand?

The most popular resident request around the holidays is how to spend New Year’s Eve. Tell me what type of experience you’re looking for and I’ll create a custom list of options for you as well as handle the booking. Just don’t delay – tickets to the best parties in town sell fast and dinner reservations book up quickly.

What do you recommend residents do around town this season, especially if they have guests in town visiting?

There are so many great options. A few of my favorites include SFMOMA, which has world-class art collections and an amazing restaurant. The de Young Museum is architecturally stunning and has the bonus of being just across the way from the California Academy of Sciences. Not to be missed is brunch at Cavalo Point in the Sausalito Hills, which is owned by the team behind Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur. And, a drive down the coast highway to The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay for lunch and a walk along the beach is a must.

What are your top 3 favorite neighborhood spots near 181 Fremont?

Pacific Heights has Fillmore Street that is lined with great shops and restaurants. Don’t miss shopping at Ministry for fashion specifically designed for the traveler and dining at famed restaurant SPQR for authentic Italian cuisine.

Sacramento Heights has Sacramento Street and two of my favorite businesses. One is a kitchen accessories store called March that has the most stylish selection in town, plus it’s a great place to buy gifts. Nearby Spruce has the most glamorous dining room in the city, so don’t miss having dinner there.

The Marina has Union Street packed full of activities, shops and restaurants. It’s a young and hip area where everyone is exercising at world-class gyms like Equinox, eating at delicious Mexican restaurants like Flores and shopping at the hippest brands like Lululemon. Union Street is truly fun for the whole family.

Any secret gems that you recommend so people are in-the-know?

The Jackson Square neighborhood, just a short walk from 181 Fremont, is very cutting edge and chic, yet steeped in history. It’s my absolute favorite place to be in San Francisco. Do some shopping at Theory, Aesop and Shinola and dine Cotogna for fantastic Italian food, Kusakabe for sushi and 15 Romolo for gourmet comfort food.