I was skeptical. A downtown San Francisco room rate, including parking, for $145. Was this going to be a deal or a dive.

It was a fantastic deal. With nearby Union Square five star hotels towering over us, I was pleasantly surprised that the Donatello Hotel has its own underground parking garage (enter on Post St.). This equates to fast valet service. With parking rates up to $50 at downtown hotels, I was happy to get a rate that included parking (basic room rate was $125).

The location one block from Union Square and from the theaters was good. I selected the Donatello over other high-rated boutique hotels because of the famous San Francisco hills. If you are an active mountain hiker, this criteria won't enter into your decision making.

Front desk staff was efficient and professional. Concierge (lobby and club level) was friendly and helpful. Club level on the 15th floor was for guests only had the continental breakfast plus coffee/tea all day. Club level has a patio and the gym.

The room was medium size with a hotel-quality king bed, end tables, amoire with 27" TV, VCR, and mini-stereo, sofabed, coffee table, desk, and a shelving unit for the refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, wet bar, glasses, dishes, and silverware. These amenties make sense since the Donatello is also a timeshare hotel. The furniture/decor was all coordinated. The furniture had a nice, contemporary natural wood finish. All electronics had separate remote controls. The mini-stereo was appreciated for playing music. Evening turndown service is provided.

The bathroom was on par for a four star hotel, though not exceptional. A hotel bathrobe was hanging ready for use in the bathroom. The lighted dressing area in front of the bathroom was flanked by the closet and a dresser matching the room furniture. A high-mounted electrical receptacle next to the dresser was handy for charging the cell phone. The closet had a room safe sized for a laptop.

A few minor quibbles. The bed and linens are very good for the room rate (e.g. Marriott, Crown Plaza), but not up to the same quality as the rest of the room. The latch for the sliding door to the terrace was sometimes difficult to latch/unlatch. I am accustomed to urban noise, but if you are not, beeping car horns may be disquieting.

We did not try the restaurant since we dinner plans for our wedding anniversary.

Tips: (1) request a room not facing Mason street, it will be somewhat quieter, (2) request a 5th floor terrace room if you like a little sun and want to view the urbanscape, (3) downtown is safe for walking about in the evening, much better than 10-15 years ago, (4) lower level Food Emporium in the Westfield's San Francisco Shopping Centre (old The Emporium building for you old timers) is a worthy low cost lunch/dinner alternative

Overall, TripAdvisor travelers came through again. The Donatello is a winner. I was very pleased with the stay. Twice in the elevator I encountered very satisfied repeat guests with strong endorsements for the Donatello's fantastic combination of luxury and value.

We always stay at the Donatello when we can get away to San Francisco. The staff are always so pleasant, friendly and helpful.
Parking is right on the premises unlike some other small downtown hotels. Sometimes they have specials where they include the parking. Again, this is something to inquire about when booking a Union Square hotel. The location is excellent, one block from Union Square. The rooms are quite spacious, usually with extra furniture for relaxing or guests. There is a microwave, small refrig. and a small cup coffee maker in the room. I also appreciate the fact that they have real wine glasses and pottery mugs. On the top floor is the clubhouse where you can get coffee, orange juice, and breakfast pastries in the morning. Also provided there are free local papers and brochures regarding tourist attractions. I will admit the Donatello's rooms and public spaces could use some updating. However, it's clean and comfortable. I've stayed at the Westin St. Francis one block over for twice the price, plus had to pay an additional $40 per night for parking. Their rooms are also dated and once the sheets were so worn I put my foot right through. I'll pass on the Westin and continue to use the Donatello.

I stayed here for only one night, but will be staying here on my next trip to San Francisco. The staff was very friendly. Chuck the concierge was very knowledgable on the area and can help with setting up wine tours, restaurant reservations and more. He actually recommended a great chinese restaurant that delivers ( Was too tired from walking around all day). No need to rent a car. Fisherman's Wharf is only a $10 cab ride (actually $9.40 to and $8.40 back). Union Sq. is 1 block away, China Town 5 blocks. Also take advantage of the daily happy hour at the bar. My girl and I had 6 beers and 2 appetizers for less that $40 with tip.

I can't say enough wonderful things about this fabulous hotel. We are Shell Vacation club members and booked our stay through their reservation service. The hotel is one or two blocks away from everything: Union Square, cable cars, public transit, shopping, fine dining and family restaurants, We had a car and used their valet service. We never waited more than a few minutes for our car and everyone was helpful with directions. My husband, our 17-year old daughter and I were very comfortable in our large room with king-sized bed and pull out queen sofa. The staff were the best, from the reception desk to the concierge and bell service. Free coffee, tea and hot chocalate were much appreciated in the top-level lounge, along with the wonderful view! We will absolutely return to the Donatello on our next trip West.