Neighborhood

LOCATION PERFECTION

Welcome to the Lower Nob Hill neighborhood, home to The Beresford Arms, leafy streets and Gilded-Age architecture. The Beresford Arms puts you in the center of cultural events, from family-friendly magic shows at Marrakech Magic Theater to Broadway musicals at the Orpheum. Union Square’s iconic shopping is just three blocks away. While the Beresford Arms does not provide on-site dining, your pick of restaurants within one block mean you won’t have to eat the same dish twice (unless you want to). Choose from farm-to-table eateries, craft cocktail bars, and laid-back burger joints for a quick bites with the family between adventures. Here are some of the Arms’ Front Desk favorites.

CASUAL BITES

White Horse Tavern
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Beresford Hotel’s own White Horse Tavern is a Union Square institution, maintaining its original, award-winning 1960s design. Rumor has it that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor reserved a table here once upon a time. Now, it is The Spot for fish and chips and a cold beer after a day of exploring.
Farm : Table
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Small but mighty, this standby is ideal for fresh and local breakfast on-the-go. Order their famed egg croissant or ask about the daily toast—and if you’re feeling adventurous, wash it all down with a lavender latte.
The Family Room
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Sip one of the city’s best cold brews in a down-to-earth space, decked out with decor and goods made by the shop’s beloved owner, Andy, and other local vendors. Come to purchase a piece to bring home, or just to try the Filipino bread.
Honey Honey
$$$$
Savory or sweet? Whichever your palate prefers, Honey Honey has the answer—whether it’s a warm and gooey Nutella crepe or mouthwatering crab cake Benedict. Lines can get long at this homey spot, so visiting on a weekday is your best bet.
Mr. Holmes Bakehouse
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Early birds are rewarded at this Instagram-famous joint known for its delectable baked goods and baked good hybrids (cronut or cruffin, anyone?). Arrive early—they close for the day once they sell out—and be sure to stop for a photo with their iconic neon sign.
Pearl’s Deluxe Burgers
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When you’re hungry for a classic burger-and-fries lunch, Pearl’s Burger delivers the old standby with fun twists—like the Bula burger with bacon and spicy pineapples or the beloved garlic fries. Plan on taking your lunch to-go, as seating is limited.

FANCIER FARE

Liholiho Yacht Club
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Polished but far from stuffy, this Hawaiian eatery has gained much acclaim for its specialty dishes like tuna poke and beef tongue. Reservations are a necessity—ask for a table near the chefs so you can watch them at work.
Fino’s Italian
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Just a half-block from Beresford Arms, this intimate eatery has all the fixings of classic Italian dining—think soft music, flickering candles, and pristine white tablecloths. Choose from an extensive menu of traditional dishes prepared to perfection.
Le Colonial
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Sophisticated with playful Asian-inspired accents, Le Colonial has a vibe that’s all its own. Locals love it for that—and for its unique French-Vietnamese fusion fare and specialty cocktails (try a few at happy hour).
Rue LePic
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Grab a table at this cozy establishment and prepare to be dazzled as you watch seasoned chefs prepare French dishes in the open kitchen. The five-course prix fixe is a true treat, as is the extensive wine list.
Borobudur
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The best Indonesian food in the city is just across the street from Beresford Arms at Burobodur. Order the rijsttafel dinner to try a little bit of everything from this authentic eatery’s wide-ranging menu.

GROCERIES

Mayflower Market
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Stock up on snacks at Market Mayflower, a family-owned neighborhood grocer in Nob Hill. Though you have to go uphill to reach it, you get the downhill on the way back when it counts (i.e. when your arms are full of groceries).
Trader Joes
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A bit further afield is Trader Joes at California/Hyde, which is about 8 blocks from Beresford Arms and has a modest parking lot. Peak times are rush hour during the week and Sunday mornings.

COCKTAILS/NIGHTLIFE

Biscuits & Blues
$$$$
This intimate music venue marries exceptional blues sets with a full bar and southern-inspired cuisine like shrimp and grits, friend green tomatoes and, of course, biscuits (with honey butter).
Starlight Room
$$$$
Sometimes you just want to dance. If you prefer to dance in a swanky spot that’s 21 floors up with glittering views of the city, try the Starlight Room. Housed within the iconic Sir Francis Drake Hotel, this art deco venue draws a 30+ crowd.
Bourbon and Branch
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In true speakeasy style, passwords are required to enter most rooms at this Prohibition-themed bar (book in advance to get in on the secret). Be sure to order a cucumber gimlet and to follow the house rules, including no cell phones.

THEATERS

Golden Gate Theater Preserved to maintain its historic architecture, the Golden Gate Theater makes you feel like you’re taking a step back in time. Renowned musicals—both classic and modern—are put on by talented casts and crews year-round.
San Francisco Playhouse Arguably the best live theater in San Francisco is just one block from Hotel Beresford at the San Francisco Playhouse. Housed within the Kensington Park Hotel building, this intimate stage is home to raved-about productions featuring the city’s most impressive talent.
ACT: The Geary Theater From dramas to cabarets to music tributes, Geary Theater has a rotating lineup of performances to spark diverse interests. There’s no bad seat here—but book a floor ticket for extra legroom.
Orpheum Theater For true theater enthusiasts, this intimate venue is the place to catch Broadway shows. It’s six blocks away from Beresford Arms—hail a cab or take a leisurely stroll to Market Street to get there.
Marrakech Magic Theater
$$$$
Sleight of hand, mind-reading, magic tricks, a touch of comedy, and mouthwatering Moroccan cuisine? Check, check, check, check, and check. Beloved among all crowds, including families, this unique theater isn’t ideally located, but it’s a guaranteed good time.

STAYING FIT

Active Sports Club
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Work up an appetite for all that eating at Active Sports Club, a Union Square fitness center with yoga and Pilates classes, a three-lane lap pool, plush locker rooms and on-site massages. A day pass is $10 at the front desk.