The Embarcadero is our favorite area to stay in San Francisco and over the years we’ve lodged at Harbor Court and the Vitale multiple times but this was our very first stay at Hotel Griffon which is next door to the Harbor Court and provides the same panoramic views over the Embarcadero and out to the Bay Bridge. Arriving during a time when the pandemic is still holding sway over our nation, the experience was a much more subdued and quieter one that usual. It was clear that this was far from the normal times of high energy and nearly constant activity that San Francisco usually exudes. For us tho’ it represented an ideal transition from “shelter in place” to a special respite. During our stay at Hotel Griffon we felt that safety protocols were carried out in the best possible manner and we felt well cared for. Sharon, the front office manager was a delight to talk to and so helpful—she saved us a futile walk to a restaurant that had closed just days prior to our visit. It didn’t occur to me to check on their status but she did just that. We encountered other pandemic-related changes: Parking in the nearby Rincon Garage was necessary since hotel valet parking wasn’t currently available, and on-site Perry’s restaurant where we normally would have had breakfast was closed during the morning. Hotel Griffon’s small historic (built 1901) lodging ambiance really appealed to me. The rooms are small and intimate and feel very comforting. Our Room #419 also provided a stunning, scenic view over the Embarcadero and out to the Bay Bridge. During our short stay I spent an inordinate amount of time just staring at the Bridge and sat for over 30 min. mesmerized by the undulating “light show” that plays out each night. It is truly art! Being able to watch it from the comfort of our room was a pretty incredible experience. Our room, although small, had all the wanted amenities including a super comfortable King bed, good size desk with swivel chair, 32” flat screen TV, phone, in-wall safe, coffee maker, hairdryer, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The closet area was quite small—a little alcove near the door but would still be fine for a couple of nights. Our bath was tiny and the sink and counter were actually in the main area with only the toilet and bath tub/shower combo in the separate bathroom. The basics all worked well with good water pressure, lighting and ventilation—the fan was kind of noisy but kept the bathroom steam-free when the shower was engaged. I was pleasantly surprised that there were multiple, accessible outlets and USB ports in the room, and that the lighting was sufficient to comfortably read by it—something so often lacking in many hotel rooms. We only turned on the heating/cooling system for a short time upon arrival. The rest of the time the room stayed at a very comfortable temperature. Our room was at the end of a hall and was nice and quiet throughout the night. We loved being able to walk a short distance to dinner at WaterBar where we had an absolutely stellar meal from start to finish. When we were getting ready to leave the following morning I felt so reluctant to go, but greatly appreciated the gift of this overnight stay, feeling more relaxed and content than I had in months. It also made me deeply appreciate the effort and work of all the people who are continuing to forge ahead, doing their jobs in the best way possible during these very difficult times. Through it all, San Francisco is still the shining City on the Bay.…
I asked for a quiet room, the clerk put me next to the elevator and the ice machine. They put a $200 hold on for incidentals - and for what? the crappy robe from 1988 hanging in the closet? The rooms are just awful - tiny and they don't even have windows. I am facing a wall, but can't even see the wall because there's a weird tinted glass over the window. The tv is up near the ceiling. The bed is as hard as a rock. This is more like a one star crap hotel. So disappointing.
Sharon was amazing, they are so lucky to have her. My view was breathtaking and the personalized service I received was perfect. My room was perfect and I felt very safe staying there. I will definitely go back!
The room was clean, well supplied with a super comfortable bed. No noises from other room check in and check out was quick and efficient. No view from room but I did not request one. Close to the pier and attractions. No complaints on my stay at this hotel. Would definitely stay again.
Excellent location by the Bay Bridge. Very clean and historic hotel. Service is wonderful and Sharon is great! Can't wait for the restaurant and bar to reopen the interior. One recommendation is bring your own water container to refill at the filter water stations.
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Listing