The Phoenix Hotel

INDEPENDENT REVIEW BY ULTIMATEHOTELS.COM STAFF

Located at the Tenderloin’s edge, The Phoenix Hotel’s creativity and genial hospitality conspire to offer a unique experience.

The Phoenix is known as the original “rock ‘n’ roll” hotel and an oasis amidst a 'rough' neighborhood. The hotel was built in the 1950's and is reminiscent of a Palm Springs–style motel. It was recognized as the first designer hotel in San Francisco and has been a landmark ever since. It draws a continuous clientele of touring rock stars, celebrities, artists, writers and filmmakers.

The 44 bungalow-style rooms and suites sport a tropical theme with their handmade bamboo furniture set against bright, primary colors. Exotic plants and original work by local artists further enhance the décor.

All rooms face the open courtyard, where birds chirp all day and crickets and frogs croak at night thanks to the wonders of modern technology. There’s a quirky sculpture garden and heated swimming pool in which to frolic. Art is everywhere, including on the bottom of the pool, which glows with a swirling blue Francis Forlenza mural.

The hotel’s Bambuddha Lounge is a funky Filipino-Balinese-Thai-Miami Beach-style hangout. Considering the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling waterfalls and indoor/outdoor slate fireplaces, guests will love just hanging out while savoring the Bambuddha’s reasonably-priced, Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine.