This is my third stay at the Nikko hotel in San Francisco in the past 10 years and I can say that the hotel still delivers a great location, unobstrusive service and very good hospitality in general.
The affluence of asian visitors to the hotel is notable and so is the hotel's Japanese heritage. In everything from the hotel's restaurant (ANZU) and the room furnishings, you can sense the Japanese quality flair.
The hotel, however, has not greatly evolved and under new management changes recently, probably should refresh very soon. Some details tell the age and lack of attention to detail quite dramatically, such as the torn (and sewn) drapers, the 1980's sound system and closet doors, for example.
The experience sums up as positive in great part due to the prime location, a few steps away from Union Square, Market St and many other relevant places in town.
This is the kind of hotel where service goes unnoticed and happens behind the scenes. You almost never bump into service people, however, service is conducted impeccably.
The quality of the food is very good, but probably not the best Japanese/Asian that one can find in San Francisco, and of course that will always be a challenge in a city with so much Asian influence and so many gourmet alternatives.
The hotel's fitness center and pool are a highlight and very good to excellent.
The lobby lacks charisma and sense of belonging. It transmits the ethos of an empty office lobby or train station, not much to see, do or enjoy. It could have a vibrant bar scene if it wanted, but for some reason it is kept eerily empty.
hotel reviews