Hotel Rex

INDEPENDENT REVIEW BY ULTIMATEHOTELS.COM STAFF

Recently reopened after a million-dollar renovation, this boutique-style hotel evokes the Bay’s pre-World War II art and literary salon scene.

The lobby is modeled after a 1930’s library with hundreds of antiquarian volumes crowding the many dark wood bookcases. Its collection of original portraits, murals and art objects celebrate such San Francisco luminaries as Mark Twain and Jack London. Guests are invited to partake in the hotel’s complimentary wine hour each evening or perhaps attend one of the frequent book signings, author readings and literary round tables the Rex regularly sponsors.

This nostalgic theme is carried over into the 94 guest rooms and suites. All are decorated in a palette of rich cardinal reds, golds and greens with custom wall coverings, hand-painted lampshades, period antiques, writing desks, comfortable reading chairs and works of local artisans. Pillow-top mattresses ensure every bed’s luxurious comfort.

The hotel’s Café Andrée is named for Andrée Dutcher, wife of Kenneth Rexroth, father of San Francisco’s beat poetry scene. Shelves of books, globes and busts create a cozy setting where diners may savor the restaurant’s quintessential Franco-Latino cuisine.