TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

We were sorely disappointed in our stay at The Fairmont after reading so many positive reviews? I am thinking that because we booked through a credit card reward program; rather than directly through the hotel; it felt like we were treated differently as in made to feel that we were “less than.” Not a good feeling. Rooms were average to small; no robes. And we were rushed out of the room so the cleaning staff could clean! We said we’d be out to explore SF in about a hour but they insisted at 9 am. Just thought that was odd. The food was wildly overpriced for the lack of quality. Would not eat dinner there after dining there once. The Cirque Cafe for coffee was fine but we went at 9am (it closes at 10a) and there were no pastries and they said there would be no replenishment because they closed in an hour. Surprising for a landmark hotel? I joined the rewards program of The Fairmont which said we would get free daily parking but we were charged $115+ for each day. Again, perhaps because we didn’t book directly. Perhaps it was my misunderstanding of the rewards program? Anyway, definitely stay somewhere else for your next trip to SFO.

Loved this hotel! We had a 1 bed suite in the historic section and it was gorgeous. So much space, walk in robe for suitcases and large bathroom that was renovated but still had art deco vintage vibes. Well located, easy to catch cable cars or walk. Safe area. Would absolutely stay here again.

Nobody ever answer your phone call. I prepaid my reservation. That's not the worst. The specifically design the auto system sounds like somebody will pickup but just loop you in the steps. You need to actually pay attention to those options (instead of put the phone call in the background and wait).

As part of a wedding anniversary celebration, I booked two nights at this venerable classic hotel in San Francisco. We had never stayed in the Nob Hill neighborhood and we were enticed by a decent price offered in Chase Travel portal as part of their "Edit" program. That program offers free breakfast for two, a space-available upgrade, a $100 dining credit, and space-available late check out. Several days prior to check in, I emailed the hotel in response to their email about getting ready for my upcoming stay. Among other things, I inquired about whether the reservation included my ALL Accor account number (this particular Edit booking expressly permitted loyalty recognition), noted a request for an upgrade in light of The Edit booking and the celebration of our anniversary, etc. No response. The day before check in, I emailed again, this time using an additional email address I found associated with this specific hotel location. I received an auto acknowledgement of receipt of my email, with a promise to respond. No response. On check-in, we were told that no upgrades were available since the hotel was full. The room was nice but the view was only of other hotel rooms across the interior courtyard. Since there was no acknowledgement by the hotel of our special celebration, the next day I inquired at the front desk. The clerk there was apologetic and asked if I would prefer a special dessert or a bottle of sparkling wine. I said a dessert would be nice and she replied that she would have both a dessert and the wine brought up to our room. "Expect a knock on your door," she said. I probably should have kept quiet, but I did hint to my wife that the hotel might be acknowledging our anniversary later that day. Sadly, nothing. I realize that no hotel is obligated to recognize special occasions but in my experience, those with high service standards almost invariably do. And, I ended up being embarrassed that I mentioned something to my wife (relying on the front desk's promise), but then nothing came through. Even though the hotel was nicely maintained and had grand public areas, this disappointment definitely colored our feelings about our stay. This old hotel is filled with history and features several hallways of historic photos. And, as mentioned, there are beautiful and grand spaces, including the Laurel Court dining space on the lobby level where a huge breakfast buffet is served, as well as afternoon tea. Service in the Laurel Court was excellent. Nob Hill provides some amazing views toward the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. At the same time, some directions from the hotel can prove to be quite challenging to walk, especially uphill on the way back. Carefully plan accordingly for your walking trips to Chinatown and Union Square. Following our stay, I received an email from the hotel requesting feedback. I explained our disappointment and immediately received a reply from an Executive Assistant at the Fairmont requesting a chance to speak. I did speak with her on the phone. She again apologized on behalf of the hotel and suggested that the Fairmont could make it up to us on a return stay or if we were having a meal there in the future. But since we don't live in the area, no such redress efforts are likely to be realized, at least for the foreseeable future. Still, I appreciate the belated efforts to apologize and empathize for the shortcomings we experienced from the Fairmont on this occasion.

We had the most wonderful stay celebrating my husband’s birthday! From the moment we arrived, the staff went above and beyond to make it feel truly special. A special thank you to Mei, who kept our room absolutely spotless. She was so warm and thoughtful, always greeting us in the morning with a smile and asking how our stay was going. Those little moments made us feel genuinely cared for. Kathryn at the front desk was incredibly kind and helped make our celebration memorable from start to finish. We also have to thank the florist at Ornament—the birthday décor in our room was absolutely beautiful and exceeded our expectations. It was such a special weekend, and we’re so grateful to everyone who made it unforgettable. We can’t wait to come back!