From the legendary Golden Gate Bridge to the crooked Lombard Street, San Francisco is home to many notable attractions. And if you’re into history and culture, we have the perfect accommodation in mind: the San Remo Hotel in San Francisco! Although we’ve explored many hotels in SF, this charming hotel managed to give us special memories. Don’t get us wrong, as this is a budget hotel. However, it’s also a boutique hotel as well as one that’s steeped in history. Even talking about this hotel made us feel excited again! Though not the fanciest, there’s something about San Remo that just makes us want to return. It’s a very unique place that promises a one-of-a-kind experience.
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A century of hospitality
The San Remo Hotel has been standing tall on Mason Street for over a century, a testament to the city’s resilience and the enduring spirit of hospitality. In the aftermath of the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire that leveled much of San Francisco, the hotel was born. Founded by A.P. Giannini, the man who would later create the Bank of America, it was initially named the “New California Hotel”, a symbol of hope and resilience in a city rebuilding from the ashes.
In 1922, the hotel adopted the name “San Remo”, a nod to the picturesque Italian town on the Gulf of Genoa. This new moniker reflected the authentic Italian cuisine served in the hotel’s restaurant, where guests could enjoy a full-course dinner for just fifty cents during the Great Depression.
Over the decades, the hotel has become a beloved North Beach institution, a place where the famous and the ordinary have mingled in a spirit of camaraderie. Today, under the ownership of the Field brothers since 1971, San Remo continues to uphold the legacy of A.P. Giannini. It has offered rooms free of charge to victims of natural disasters, demonstrating our enduring dedication to community service.
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North Beach gem
Aside from its history, the San Remo Hotel is also known for its fantastic location. Labeled as the best budget boutique hotel in San Francisco, it’s set right in the heart of North Beach, a vibrant Italian-American neighborhood. We were surrounded by authentic restaurants, charming shops, and a lively atmosphere. It was the perfect base for us to explore San Francisco. Just a few minutes’ walk away, we could easily hop on the cable cars to explore other parts of the city.
Fisherman’s Wharf, with its iconic piers, sea lions, and tourist attractions, was also within easy walking distance. The iconic Golden Gate Bridge was also nearby. Being in such a historic neighborhood, we felt immersed in the city’s rich history and culture. We loved the convenience of being able to walk to so many great places.
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Superb rooms and suites
Even though it’s been a while since our stay, we’re still buzzing about it. The San Remo Hotel is a charming piece of history, but what truly sets it apart are the rooms. Every room on the property is a cozy haven with a stunning view that makes travelers feel like they’re living on a postcard. The large windows offer a panoramic view of the city, and you can wake up every morning to the sight of Coit Tower and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance.
If you’re looking for something special, we highly recommend the Penthouse. It was the one that we booked. This luxurious room is decorated with antique furnishings and stained glass windows. However, the highlight is the private rooftop patio with breathtaking views of the city. We enjoyed the Penthouse a lot. It allowed us to relax like no other and we think it’s a great choice for those who want to have a romantic trip.
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Culinary excellence
During our stay, we had the pleasure of dining at Fior d’Italia, the historic Italian restaurant nestled within the San Remo Hotel. Similar to the host, the restaurant is one of the oldest Italian restaurants in the US, and we had high expectations. The restaurant’s rich history, dating back to 1886, is evident in its elegant ambiance. The ground-floor location in the hotel, built after the 1906 earthquake, adds to the timeless charm.
We were particularly impressed by the menu, which offers a delicious array of Northern Italian dishes. From classic pasta dishes to hearty entrees, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The quality of the ingredients is apparent in every bite, and the flavors are simply exquisite. The must-order? Try the rack of lamb and oysters!
“We’re sure you’ll even be more surprised once you see the price of each menu!”
WOW Travel
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What’s the catch?
So, what’s the catch? Like many other hotels, the San Remo Hotel isn’t perfect. First, don’t expect a pool, spa, or sauna on-site. However, this wasn’t a deal-breaker for us as we found that there was a public pool nearby. It’s a great alternative, especially on hot days. And though breakfast wasn’t included, we could still easily find an abundance of cafes and restaurants just across the street.
What about the San Remo Hotel San Francisco parking? While parking can sometimes be a hassle, San Remo has a great solution. It has a preferential rate with a local parking company, so we were able to park our car for a reasonable daily fee of 24 USD.
However, the exceptional service at this hotel makes up for those things people see as drawbacks. From the moment we arrived until our departure, the staff made us feel right at home. They were always helpful and eager to share their local knowledge. We even got some great insider tips for exploring the city!
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Pros
- The San Remo Hotel provides easy access to popular attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas.
- The hotel’s vintage decor and architecture offer a glimpse into San Francisco’s past, creating a unique and nostalgic atmosphere.
- Compared to many other hotels in the city, the San Remo Hotel offers competitive rates, making it a budget-friendly option.
Cons
- Some room types may feature shared bathrooms, which can be a drawback for those seeking privacy.
Conclusion
The San Remo Hotel offers a unique blend of history, charm, and affordability. Nestled in the heart of North Beach, this boutique hotel invites you to experience a slice of old-world San Francisco. With its vintage decor and intimate atmosphere, the hotel provides an authentic stay. Its prime location, just steps from the waterfront and vibrant Italian neighborhood, ensures easy access to the city’s best attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. We’re sure other San Remo Hotel San Francisco reviews will also recommend this hotel.
Read Also
- 11 Historic Hotels of San Francisco
- 11 Best Cheap Hotels in San Francisco CA
- 11 Best Boutique Hotels in San Francisco
- 11 Best Hotels Near San Francisco International Airport
- 13 Best Day Trips from San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How old is the San Remo Hotel?
A: The hotel was built in 1906, making it over 118 years old.
Q: What are the check-in and check-out times at Hotel Remo San Francisco?
A: Check-in is at 3 PM and check-out is at 11 AM.
Q: How far is the hotel from the airport?
A: It’s about 14 miles from the airport.
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