Arrival/Check-In: After an early-morning transcontinental flight, I drove into San Francisco and found the Argonaut with ease. Well-dressed bellmen and valet attendants promptly assisted with my luggage and rental car. Because my room wasn’t ready yet, I left my bags in secure storage and set out to explore the city. When I returned later that afternoon the check-in was quick, and I paused at the hotel’s complimentary happy hour to enjoy a local beer before heading up to my guestroom to prepare for dinner.
Guest Quarters: I had expected the nautical theme might feel gimmicky, but the design was tasteful and refined. Highlights included an exposed brick wall, shuttered window shades, a colorful goldfish in a glass bowl, and anchor-shaped pillows that added charm without being over the top.
My double guestroom was roomy and offered attractive views of San Francisco Bay. Although the room faced the lively Fisherman’s Wharf, noise was not a problem. The layout included two queen beds separated by a nightstand, a flat-screen TV on a dresser, a desk for work, and a full-length mirror. A short entry hallway led to the bathroom on the left.
Services/Amenities: I only stayed one night and didn’t dine on-site, but the menu looked inviting and the award-winning clam chowder was high on my list to try on a future visit.
The lobby had a comfortable, maritime-inspired atmosphere with plenty of seating, including loungers that evoked a ship’s deck. The hotel offers a nightly complimentary wine hour, which was very popular during my stay. Meeting and event spaces are conveniently located just off the lobby.
Service was attentive throughout my stay. When I requested a second luggage rack, it arrived within minutes, and the valet’s text messaging system ensured my car was ready when I needed it. A mix-up at checkout — receiving the wrong receipt — was handled promptly and courteously. My only minor disappointment was the concierge, who was knowledgeable but relatively reserved; I would have appreciated more local tips to maximize a short visit.
The Experience: For travelers who want to be near family-friendly Fisherman’s Wharf, the Argonaut is an excellent choice. The hotel is also close to Lombard Street, Ghirardelli Square, and within comfortable walking distance of other popular neighborhoods and attractions, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
GT CHECKLIST
[checklist]
[item check=yes]Doorman/valet[/item]
[item check=yes]Less than 10 minutes for check-in[/item]
[item check]Separate tub and shower[/item]
[item check=yes]Large vanity[/item]
[item check=yes]High-quality towels[/item]
[item check=yes]Powerful, unattached hair dryer[/item]
[item check=yes]High-quality bed linens[/item]
[item check=yes]Large, flat-screen television[/item]
[item check=yes]Large desk with convenient outlets[/item]
[item check=yes]Large, complimentary laptop safe[/item]
[item check]Complimentary in-room WiFi[/item]
[item check]Complimentary bottled water[/item]
[item check=yes]Stocked minibar[/item]
[item check=yes]Ample lighting[/item]
[item check=yes]In-room coffeemaker[/item]
[item check=yes]Iron and ironing board[/item]
[item check=yes]On-site restaurant[/item]
[item check]24-hour room service[/item]
[item check=yes]24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center[/item]
[item check=yes]Turn-down service[/item]
[/checklist]
Argonaut Hotel, A Kimpton Hotel
495 Jefferson St.
San Francisco, CA 94109
tel 415 563-0800
argonauthotel.com