King George Hotel

334 Mason St., San Francisco, California 94102, USA
Greystone Hotels

Why We Like It

This historic hotel offers affordable rooms in the center of it all, British style, and a great staff.

Fodor's Expert Review

Travelers on a budget appreciate the classic British style of this hospitable hotel that has been serving guests since 1914. In the center of Union Square, most travelers stay here for the location and the friendly service. Compact rooms were recently renovated.

You Should Know Elevators can be quite slow, so plan ahead if you are in a hurry.

Recommended Fodor’s Video

Room

Since the English-styled rooms are small, the effect can feel a bit stuffy, dark, and cramped. Rooms feature gold and tufted headboards, a work desk, and fresh flowers. Closets are tiny, so only bring what you need.

Bathroom

Fodor's readers complain that the bathrooms are small. The property recently renovated bathrooms to update the black and white tiled flooring and marble sinks.

Tip Only a handful of rooms offers tubs so be sure to request one if you prefer baths.

Lobby

The front-desk and concierge staff in the red-carpeted lobby easily arrange dinner reservations for guests. Renovated in 2017, the lobby area makes for a lovely place to escape the downtown crowds.

Dining

For a slightly higher rate you can enjoy breakfast, and evening bar service in the comfortable, pub-style lounge, Winston's Lounge.

Drinking

The hotel offers complimentary wine from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy afternoon tea and snacks at King George Tea Room. Or if you prefer to sample California wines, head over to Winston's Lounge.

What's Nearby

Getting Around

The hotel offers valet parking at almost $50 a night. Across the street, there is a parking garage for less. If you didn't bring a car, take advantage of the ample public transportation in the area, with Muni buses and trains, BART, cable car, and the trolley all a short walk away. Walkers can easily access Union Square's shops, Tenderloin's bars, and SoMa's museums.

Restaurants

Around the corner, line up at Katana-Ya (1-minute walk) for some of San Francisco's best ramen for those on a budget. Fans of Mediterranean cuisine cheer the arrival of New York's famed The Halal Guys (2-minute walk), where hummus, spit-fired meats, and pita sandwiches lure the locals.

Bars

Enjoy nightly cabaret and a glass of Merlot at Feinstein's at the Nikko (2-minute walk). Get the password to enter San Francisco's premiere speakeasy Bourbon and Branch (3-minute walk) for hard cocktails in a sophisticated environment.

Quick Facts

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 800-288–6005; 415-781–5050