Unexpected gifts can be a mixed bag. Our holiday stay at San Francisco's Marines Memorial Club was the best kind of treat.
Despite it's Club moniker, you don't have to be a member or even a Marine to stay (or dine). If you have any kind of current or former military affiliation, you'll get a discounted rate, but everyone is welcome.
You must, however, love the adorable mascot, Leatherneck. He stands guard by the elevators and is the namesake for the excellent top floor restaurant.
Rooms are large and in need of a decorating makeover, but the essentials (large screen TV, free WiFi) are the latest. Ceiling fans, robes, and lovely Lord & Mayfair toiletries were unexpected bonuses. Beds are comfy and there's lots of room to spread out. Mini fridges in each room (plus the free breakfast) make this a superb choice for families.
What was really unexpected, though, was the complimentary Happy Hour from 4-6 pm. Friendly 
bartenders mix and serve whatever you want, so it's a good time to try a classic...you know you're curious about that Rusty Nail. Beer aficionados will love the Sudwerks beers on tap. There are also some delish, hard to find wines...all from Marine-affiliated family wineries.
An enormous buffet breakfast is also included in the room rate--there's a huge table of hot items as well as gorgeous pastries and lots of fresh fruit.
We loved the view in the restaurant so much that we also had lunch and dinner there. The food is classic old school (iceberg wedges, anyone??) and best washed down with a martini or two. Steaks are the same quality and less pricey than the nearby Mortons and Ruth's Chris chains. Plus, where else can you eat in a bulldog themed restaurant?? (-: Cutie Leatherneck is on everything from the silverware to table decorations.
Head downstairs to the Club One fitness center to work off all that free food and bev. This uncrowded club has the usual equipment, but absolutely killer steamrooms. Super clean with almost constant stem, both your pores and your diamonds will come out sparkling.
The Union Square location (5-min walk to Powell St. BART) can't be beat and the Beaux-Arts-style building will delight architecture fans. The sunny library is the perfect spot for wood-panel loving Ivy League fans to find their groove. History and military buffs will love the well curated displays throughout the building, including the ship's bell from the USS San Francisco.
Other pieces are more personal, like the pair of wall hand cuffs given to the Marine who rescued a long time political prisoner in the Gulf War.
Whatever your politics, you can't help but be moved by the stories woven into the fabric of this very special place. That it also happens to be one of San Francisco's best hotel values is a gift that everyone can enjoy.
Click here for an excellent SJ Mercury News article on the Club's history.
