Originally constructed in 1907 and reconstructed and renovated in 1996, the sophisticated and intriguing atmosphere of the Hotel Rex was inspired by the San Francisco art and literary salons of the 1920s and 30s. Step outside the Hotel Rex and walk to one of the department stores, specialty boutiques, or galleries of Union Square. Venture further and meander Chinatown, North Beach, Yerba Buena Gardens, or San Francisco's Museum of Modern Art.Guests are surrounded by rich colors in a vibrant lobby that features an exceptional collection of exotic objects and original art, walls lined with handsome books, and period furnishings. Literary events and interesting conversation regularly unfold in the Vicious Circle Lobby Bar, which serves cocktail, appetizers, and entrees, and the hotel's bookstore is an enchanting place to get lost among stacks of antiquarian books.