We spent a wonderful weekend at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square from June 5–8 celebrating our 53rd wedding anniversary and returning to the hotel where we spent our 10th anniversary in 1983.
Before our arrival, I mentioned the significance of this visit in a message to the hotel and received a warm response from Ms. Che Belcher, whose kindness and enthusiasm immediately made us feel welcome as longtime Hilton guests.
As Diamond Hilton Honors members, we were delighted to be upgraded to a high-floor corner room with beautiful views of the Bay and city skyline.
We arrived on a busy Friday afternoon to a lobby filled with conference attendees and vacationing families. Despite the crowds, the check-in experience could not have been more gracious. Issa Hakizimana, a wonderful member of the front desk team, took time to orient us to the property and invited us to a celebratory breakfast in honor of our anniversary. Throughout our stay, Issa consistently ensured that everything was taken care of. His colleague, Gabby Saliba, was equally professional, cheerful, and welcoming despite the demands of an exceptionally busy conference weekend.
Having traveled extensively on business for nearly three decades, we know that a truly outstanding front office team can transform a stay from ordinary to memorable. The warmth and professionalism shown by Issa, Gabby, and their colleagues made a lasting impression. Front Office management deserves recognition for assembling such an exceptional team.
The hotel’s location remains one of its greatest strengths. Its easy access to BART and San Francisco’s public transportation system makes exploring the city extremely convenient. Like much of downtown San Francisco, the surrounding area continues to recover from the disruptions of the pandemic. The nearby Tenderloin district reflects some of the difficult realities facing the city today. We walked extensively throughout the area and never felt unsafe, though it was sobering to witness the hardships experienced by many vulnerable residents.
The Hilton San Francisco Union Square is clearly in the process of gradual renewal. While many areas still need updating, it is evident that management is investing in improvements to the guestrooms and infrastructure over time. The upper-floor views are spectacular and give the property tremendous potential not only as a conference hotel, but also as a destination for leisure travelers.
There were a few weaker points. The buffet breakfast room felt dated and lacked atmosphere, although the coffee shop pastries — especially the scones and croissants — were excellent. Fortunately, the hotel is surrounded by abundant dining options.
We look forward to returning to the Hilton San Francisco Union Square in the future. Its location, remarkable front desk team, and unmistakable sense of history continue to make it a memorable place to stay in San Francisco.
