Beaux Arts chic in downtown San Francisco.

Built as a hotel in 1910, this landmark building has been given a $24 million makeover by the San Francisco-based Kimpton group, and is now arty, sophisticated, glamorous and comfortable.

First Impressions
The hotel is conveniently located in the theatre district, two blocks from Union Square - but the loitering drug-users and homeless people on the streets take some getting used to. The lobby - known as the Living Room - is stylish and quirky, with large metal sculptures, hand-painted trompe l’oeil domed ceilings, a two-storey French inglenook fireplace (with gas flames), and a registration desk modelled on a 1920s trunk. The main staircase has bronze filigree banisters and marble steps.

Rooms
The 233 rooms and suites are immaculate and gaudy, with stripes, spots and primary hues. The whimsical decor continues the travelling theme of the foyer, with Chinese-style wardrobes, fake-bamboo desks, and luggage straps holding up the bed canopies. The beds are very comfortable.

Come for
Easy access to Union Square, theatres, famous shops, art galleries and all of San Francisco’s sights;
Bring your pets for VIP pampering, or borrow a complimentary goldfish for company;
Relax with 4-handed massages, manicure, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, or free yoga instruction via the TV;
Wine tasting from 5-6pm every evening, with tarot-card reader and head massage;
Superb service, including valet parking, daily newspaper, shoeshine;
Fully accessible for people with disabilities.

Eating in
The Grand Café, with French chef and pastry chef, has its own street entrance and is run as a independent business. The décor is flamboyant Belle Epoque, and the French-Californian cuisine is popular with theatre-goers.
The Petit Café offers less formal meals.

Eating out
San Francisco is right outside the door.

Hotel Monaco
501 Geary St
San Francisco
California 94102
www.monaco.sf.com
001 415 292 0100

First published by Travel Intelligence Ltd
©SarahShuckburgh