by Marian Jane Sanders

ust half a block from Union Square, the aptly-named Inn at Union Square couldn’t be more convenient to downtown San Francisco’s department stores, designer boutiques, art galleries, and theaters. But it isn’t just the location you’ll remember. From the minute you enter the compact lobby, with its trompe l’oeil library decorating the walls, the charm of this small hotel is apparent.

… the concierge arranged our dinner reservation, and the doorman greeted us by name.

The six-story inn was built in 1917 as a residential hotel. In 1978, new owners completely renovated it, transforming 65 very small rooms, many with shared baths, into 30 spacious rooms and suites, all with private baths. The long narrow hallways are now lined with mirrors, creating the illusion of space. The lobby and other public areas are small and intimate.

The motif is classic Georgian, with high ceilings, wainscoting, and antique-style furnishings. The inn recently completed an extensive renovation that included new carpet, furniture, wallpaper, window treatments, linens and mattresses.

Our suite had a canopy over the king-size bed, separate sitting area with a fireplace, spectacular floral arrangement on the mantelpiece, and dainty yellow carnations on the dresser. The bathroom featured white tile and brass fixtures, a deep tub, plush terry robes, and custom bath products.

The inn’s staff was exceptionally efficient and helpful. We felt pampered at every turn: the valet parked our car, the porter showed us to our room, the concierge arranged our dinner reservation, and the doorman greeted us by name.

Each evening, wine and hors d’œuvres are served in the cozy fireplace lobbies on the third and fifth floors. A hearty complimentary breakfast is also served there — not just the usual croissant, coffee and juice, but also pastries, cereal, yogurt, fresh fruit salad, and hard-boiled eggs. There’s no need to go hungry in the middle of the night, either — cookies and other snacks are available to guests around the clock.

In an effort to keep city noise out, the guest rooms are set back from the street. Our room, in the rear of the building, looked out on a brick building across the way — a small trade-off, we felt, for the blissfully quiet night we spent at this delightful inn.

Inn at Union Square: tel. 800/288-4346; www.unionsquare.com.

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