Review: Le Meridien San Francisco

How did it strike you on arrival?
Le Meridien definitely has a modern vibe. Walk in off of Battery Street in downtown San Francisco and you're greeted by diagonal black beams running up the walls and ceilings, a tall, metal, palm tree-style sculpture surrounded by a glass circular staircase, bright blue leather chairs, and modern art on the walls, including a colorful, floral, laser-cut sculpture by David Kracov. Carpets are gray, with stripes flowing in various directions, and the bar is an intriguing striped piece of stone.

Nice. What’s the crowd like?
Thanks to its location in the Financial District, there are a lot of business travelers here, but tourists, too.

The good stuff: Tell us about your room.
Rooms at Le Méridien are filled with light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. Tones are mostly neutral—gray carpets, light walls, white linens—with orange accents in curtains and throw pillows. Some rooms feature wall-sized maps of San Francisco, which is a fun touch, and windows open, if you feel like a Bay breeze.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Pillow-top mattresses and down blankets add a bit of cozy.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?
Turn-down service is always a plus. (Minibar is pretty standard).

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Products are by Malin & Goetz, and the countertops are granite.

Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?
Wi-Fi is $12.95 per day.

Room service: Worth it?
The Méridien's menu offers standards like a $17 cheese pizza and New York steak frites ($26), but also $5 eclairs between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.

Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.
For a fee, guests can access the pool at the nearby Bay Club.

What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?
Thanks to its height and location, some of the room views are pretty spectacular.

Bottom line: worth it, and why?
If you need to be in the Financial District, the location is great, and the vibe is pleasant. Luxury travelers would be underwhelmed.