Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Bijou

111 Mason St., San Francisco, California 94102, USA See on Map

Located downtown between the Union Square shopping district and the less snazzy Tenderloin, this boutique hotel got a new look in early 2018, stripping her of her former movie theme so as to infuse her with a dash of modern style. A buzzy new restaurant rounds out the experience.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Some travelers don't feel comfortable walking around the Tenderloin, home to a large number of San Francisco's transient residents, at night. If that's you, hire a ride share back to the hotel.

room

Cloud-hued rooms feature comfy bedding and large windows. Blackout curtains shade the floor-to-ceiling windows. Thick windows help, but do not complete shield sleepers from street noise. A work desk and flat-screen TV are additional amenities.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Take advantage of the in-room fitness kit offered to guests.

bathroom

Tiled baths feature showers over tubs and Gilchrist and Soames bath products.

lobby

The lobby's cache comes from the adjacent Gibson Restaurant, which brings a stream of locals and travelers through the area. Leisure travelers and their small pets lounge on couches in the afternoons.

spa

The hotel can arrange in-room spa treatments.

gym

There is no gym onsite, but check out the in-room fitness kits offered to guests.

dining

The outstanding new Gibson Restaurant celebrates the history of this region with an art deco aesthetic and one of the most buzzed about tasting menus this side of Market Street. Whether you order a craft cocktail or delight in Chef Robin Song's creative dishes, chances are you'll be longing to return before your hotel stay ends.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Reservations can be hard to attain. When you book your room, also make a reservation for dinner.

drinking

Adam Chapman's outstanding cocktail program boosts Gibson's reputation. Check out the Sea featuring nori gin, sake, liquid kelp, and sea bean.

LOCATION

Getting Around

The hotel offers pricey valet parking, so leave your car behind. Take advantage of the city's walker-friendly streets, by exploring SoMa, Union Square, the Tenderloin, Nob Hill, Financial District and more. Muni buses and trains, the cable car and BART trains can all be accessed within a short walk.

Restaurants

The Sunday gospel brunch at Farmerbrown (1-minute walk) is exceptional, especially if you go for the fried chicken and waffles. Line up for some of the city's best Thai cuisine at Kin Khao (2-minute walk)--don't miss the house-made curries.

Bars

Some of the planet's most interesting performers take over the Warfield (4-minute walk) so check the schedule. Get the password (hint it's on the website) and score a seat in the speakeasy Bourbon and Branch (6-minute walk) to sample some of the city's most interesting cocktails.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Sleek and sophisticated without being too expensive, this boutique hotel provides guests with comfort, style, and a fab restaurant.

QUICK FACTS

Historical, Romantic
65 rooms
Breakfast No
Lunch No
Dinner Yes
Bar Yes
Cafe No
$$$
Yes
Valet Parking
Yes

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 800-771–1022;415-771–1200

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