Hotel Monaco, San Francisco

Hotel Monaco, San Francisco Review

A cheery 1910 Beaux-Arts facade and snappily dressed doormen welcome you into a lobby dominated by a French inglenook fireplace, vaulted ceilings painted with whimsical murals of hot-air balloons, a marble staircase, and a large metal baobab tree dedicated to hotelier Bill Kimpton. After a major renovation by designer Andrea Dawson, the Monaco and its notable style has jumped up a notch. Individually cut, multicolored wallpaper stripes down bedroom walls accent bold pillows and furnishings straight out of a globetrekker's collection—think evil eye-etched curtains and aluminum-wrapped armoires. Outer rooms feature bay-window seats overlooking the bustling theater district. If you didn't bring a pet, request a "companion goldfish." Guests have cheered the hotel's staff for its "amazing service" and "attention to detail" and praised the Grand Café and Bar, which serves French/Californian cuisine. Take advantage of complimentary access to the recently redone Spa, where you can soak, steam, or bake to your heart's content from 6 am to 10 pm. The hotel offers free coffee, tea, and wine at various times throughout the day.