I stay frequently at the Phoenix Hotel. Although the neighborhood is a bit questionable, I have never had any problems; nor have I felt in danger. The rooms are more than comfortable, and are clearly up to the joie de vivre standard. By 11 p.m. all is quiet. The hotel, actually a motel, (with parking!) is close to the opera house, the Asian Art Museum, and City Hall. All are within walking distance. I will definitely return during the opera season.

The hotel had my suv impounded which cost me $285 and inconvience that spoiled my San Fran experience! The staff was very rude and didn't care that they ruined all of my guests night and put me in a financial hardship.

We stayed in this hotel, based on the review we saw in this website.

First, I need to say that the room was really nice and clean and the staff is really friendly. The breakfast (continental - try the blueberry bread.....delicious!!) was perfect for us (despite a lack of fruits...).

However, I must say that all this has been ''erased'' by the fact that this hotel is really noisy. Note that the bar adjacent to the hotel has a terrace that is directly near the rooms so for people that needs to rest, it's not easy!!! Officially, the terrace is not accessible after 10:00pm or 11:00pm depending on the day but the thing is if you have any childrenss, or want to got to sleep ealry, you'd better put some ears-plug on!! (even with it, I could sleep....).

Besides that, I would recommend this hotel but since theses vacations weren't not planned to party for us, it was not the right hotel to stay.

A friend had found the hotel on-line, sent us a link, and we said "Sure, looks OK". I did not pay the close attention to neighborhood that I would have if I had done the research.

So, I was quite dismayed as we neared SF and I realized the hotel was in the Tenderloin, based on what I knew from living in the Bay area decades earlier. I was still doubtful as we pulled up and saw the street side presentation.

BUT, peeking through the gate into the courtyard, I felt a bit better. Then we walked up to the desk and were greeted by two of the most genuinely friendly people I have ever encountered in the hospitality business. That characteristic was true of all other encounters with staff.

The ambience is funky with interesting metal sculptures and burbling fountains. The rooms were clean. Furnishings were eclectic. Our bathroom was sparkling clean. Looked like new tile work.

The included poolside, covered, under the heat lamp breakfast was very good for what it was. Good pastries, bagels, breads, surprisingly good coffee, juices. Just short on protein.

Excellent, inexpensive restaurants nearby. Ask the staff. And, the neighborhood, while definitely big city gritty, never felt dangerous.

Two minor quibbles: First, the jalousie windows didn't close tightly enough to stop a strong, cool exterior breeze from blowing into the room. But, the wall heater compensated (at some environmental cost). Second, either don't drive to the hotel or park your car once and take transit. Getting in and out of parking spaces there can be challenging.)

But, definitely a great experience overall. I would go back.