Brady E.
Yelp
I had read reviews here that the desk people were not friendly. I found them to be very friendly. No-- they are not hyper fussing over you, but the check in was simple and fast.
I saw people mention parking is an issue. That may be true if you have an RV or a truck, but I had a car and loved that I could park and go in and out for a flat daily fee. Ever go to the Driscoll Hotel nearby? They have NO PARKING and have a guy who parks you car on the street and moves it every three hours. I did not like that at all since they could not find my car the next day. Always felt I had to check to be sure nothing was missing from my car.
The Laurel Inn is clean, the bed is a good bed. A desk and sofa, and nicely decorated. I had a small kitchen and it was well equipped and clean and spacious. There is a spacious bathroom, good shower head and water pressure, and grab bars in the shower - excellent maid service too. The room was super quiet all day and through the night. I thought since it is dog-friendly I might hear barking, but nothing. Cookies and lemon water, muffins and coffee in the lobby.
My room had a city view and when I got up in the morning the sunrise was spectacular, so I recommend a city view room, since it's worth the price, and of course the higher floors likely have an even better view. I was in 108. The elevator is old, but a nice European personality. Plus the internet is fast and free.
I was not able to try the restaurant next door, but did go to dinner at Spruce one night (On Sacramento) and it was excellent. Also had lunch twice at Food Inc Trattoria on California near Divisadero, and it was also excellent. Best sandwiches! and great bread.
But...Love the parking lot at the Laurel Inn. No rip off in and out fee, which really can add up at hotels with only valet parking. Plus, it is self park so you do not have to tip a valet each time you go in and out like in the Union Square hotels. Very few SF hotels have a lot like this.
I read some people complain that there is no A/C in the rooms. In SF you would need AC in the room maybe 3 days a year. The windows open at night and many high-rise hotels have windows that do not open. I love Fresh air at night and even with my window open, it was quiet.
I have stayed in SF many times and I will never stay near Fisherman's Wharf or near Union Square again. The streets are filthy and there are people begging and sleeping on the streets. It is totally nasty.
The neighborhood where the Laurel is felt very friendly to me, and very safe and clean. There are interesting little shops on California and Sacramento streets, small local-feeling restaurants.
If you want to sight see, busses are close and you can walk many places. The Firehouse Museum is very close and interesting.
What you save on parking makes up for any downfalls at The Laurel Inn, and I didn't find anything to complain about - and trust me, I usually can.
I will be back, for sure.