The Fairmont in San Francisco is very special. From the moment you drive up and check in until the bellman arrives to escort when you leave. The hotel is rich in history and has so much to offer that in many ways it's like exploring a treasure chest. This trip we made friends w/ the bee habitat, the coffee shop, where they had terrific pastries and the park like setting, where you can take your dog in an emergency. The hotel staff is warm, professional and very kind. However, there's always a however! I was disappointed to find out that there is no Fairmont Gold service available. I love Fairmont Gold, and suggest to anybody reading this who hasn't tried it in other Fairmont's, to give it a try. This morning we had a terrific waiter at breakfast but yesterday we had Mr Grumpy, who overcharged us and not only didn't apologize but didn't offer to adjust our bill. I had ordered fruit, juice, and an iced tea. I was charged for the full service buffet breakfast. It was an unpleasant way to start off my first day at the hotel. Last night we celebrated my Mothers 85th birthday at the Tonga room. It was terrible. The poor waitperson couldn't hear us over the noise of the musicians, so parts of our orders were never delivered. We couldn't talk because the music got progressively louder. Mom took off her hearing aids. People had flown in from out of state. The food is reasonably priced. The drink menu has lots of creative choices. However, the quality of the food preparation leaves much to be desired. Yes, I am of a certain age, but loud music, regardless of how trendy it is, is not good for a pleasant dining experience.