The Parsonage

If you enjoy waking up to a heavenly breakfast and falling asleep in a charming Victorian room, the Parsonage is the place for you. I had such a wonderful time, thanks to John, Joan, Laura, and Matt who are all incredibly kind. I look forward to my next visit!

I highly recommend The Parsonage as a place to stay. It is charming, comfortable, and well-located in a highly attractive, gentrified neighborhood. John, assisted by his wife Joan and his daughter Laura, is the consummate host who is knowledgeable about a panoply of subjects, including all things San Francisco and the Lower Haight neighborhood. He is also a great breakfast provider, from the exquisite strawberries he obtains from the farmers' market to the waffles, eggs, quiche, or French toast that he cooks up for the breakfast main course. No one leaves breakfast the slightest bit hungry. The Julia Madison room, the Triple Queen room in which we stayed on the third floor, was very spacious, with city views to the north and east. Not only was the bedroom spacious, but so was the bathroom. The furnishings and fixtures are tasteful period pieces, appropriate to a Victorian mansion. The shower, however, was modern (and also quite large). As a bonus, there are two bus lines that stop either across the street or one block away, that efficiently whisk one back and forth from Downtown. There are many superior restaurants within a ten-minute walk of The Parsonage. My wife and I stayed four nights in May 2024 and we enjoyed every minute of it.

Like living in a brand new 1865 building--restored to perfection: marble threshold cuts are precise, as are the moldings that abut, glass door knobs don't even rattle in their period hardware settings, painted brass keyways aren't even scratched. Bri has thought of everything to make your stay perfect. It's a masterpiece. . .

I recently ended a trip in the Bay Area with a couple of days at the Parsonage and I am so glad I did! The inn itself has so much charm and so many historical details. I was able to get a tour and see quite a few of the guest rooms, all of which were well-appointed, clean & spacious. I had a large third floor room with a heavenly bed and a gorgeous bathroom. Despite being in a vibrant area of the city, I heard virtually no street noise (it was winter, so my windows were closed), and I had a peaceful nights rest. I would have loved to been able to stay longer to enjoy all the neighborhood has to offer. The best part of the inn, though, was the hospitality. I find it harder and harder to come by as of late, and the Parsonage has it aplenty. The inn is truly a family affair, and being cared for by John & Joan & Laura & Matt was the perfect end to my vacation. I look forward to returning!

Wonderful atmosphere. The proprietors are welcoming and fantastically accommodating. We loved our room which was filled with antiques. We'll definitely stay there again. Our only quibble was we did not have daily maid service, as we expected. Since it was a relatively short stay, that wasn't a problem.

This is a charming place to stay. The house is full of period features. The hosts were unobtrusive and extremely welcoming. Breakfast was exceptional. Room comfortable. Great transport links to town and fashionable places nearby. It is a unique place to stay and k would happily stay again for longer.

The Parsonage was an amazing experience. We stayed 8 days, the room was lovely, incredibly comfortable beds and the bathroom was wonderful. The house and art as well as the furniture was an experience in itself. Like a gallery to live in. The breakfast in the breakfast room was the best start on a new day one can wish for. Highly recommended.

Lovely place to stay. Very comfortable bed. Relaxing lounge. Very near to good restaurants in Hayes Valley.

We stayed here when ever we visited our daughter and son in law in Hays valley as their home wasn't big enough to house us. We love Joan and John. The best hosts, friendly and fun! Very comfortable rooms with lots of art! Loved our stays and miss them too!

This San Francisco B&B captures the beauty and elegance of the Gilded Age --but with modern conveniences. Every gorgeous, public room is replete with fascinating artwork collected from around the world. The owners, the Hulls, are a lovely couple who invite you to sit in the high ceiling, elegant living room and have a drink, if you like, or peruse magazines. And in the morning, you're served a sumptuous and delicious breakfast on lovely china. An elevator took us to and from our room's floor, making transport fun and easy. Our bedroom was cozy and included an array of lovely furniture and a bathroom with a charming collection of Russian toys and a modern marble shower. Staying at the Parsonage is not just a place to rest your head. It's an "experience"--a wonderful experience.

I am quite appalled by their lack of professionalism. I have left voicemail messages about reserving a room and have also used their online inquiry system and have received no response. Frankly, that is not acceptable in what is supposed to be the "hospitality" industry.

Yikes! Where do I begin? This place was queer, uncomfortable, and anything but pleasant. First off - we came to San Francisco for the second time this summer, and stayed at The Beresford (search my reviews for a separate rating of that hotel) the first 4 days, and then came to stay here for the last 6. The owners were traveling until the following Monday, so the then-innkeeper Ariel was maintaning the place. She was very friendly, albeit a bit strange. I liked her. Our room was very nice, but the bathroom? UCK. There was a window that must've been 10 feet long RIGHT across from the glass shower - no curtains included. Oh my gosh. That's just disgusting. And it's not by any means in a quiet neighborhood, so this was just seemingly unacceptable, and questionably illegal! As if that weren't enough, we had heard more than one time around the place that the owners were growing tired of running it, and were planning to either sell it or shut it down. That's not a good sign, and further increased the uncomfortability meter. Then, there comes the breakfast. It was fairly tasty, but not at all enough. We once got only a couple pieces of toast!! And then, when the owners finally arrived, they just assumed I didn't want any breakfast, and served my parents instead! They literally skipped over me. There really must've been something wrong with the woman, Joan, who runs The Parsonage with her husband (who was pretty friendly, but incredibly eccentric). She literally ignored us, only saying a few words, and when my dad tried to start pleasant conversation, she nodded a few times and nearly walked off. Then, later, we saw her talking to other people in the front hall, in a completely normal and amiable tone. This got us mad. So I encourage you to stay somewhere else while in San Fran. The rates - for the service and breakfast we got - were absolutely ridiculous. $195+ a night. P.S. Their dog is a nut case! It barks non-stop, and LOUD....at nothing. So now there are THREE crazy residents here.

We have stayed here, as have both sets of our parents at different times, as have friends. We highly recommend the place to everyone who visits San Francisco. Joan and John are very friendly, interesting people and the hospitality is wonderful. The breakfast has always been not just good, but wonderful. The place itself is beyond luxury. Gorgeous antiques, amazing feather beds, immaculately designed rooms all around. The location is a bit loud due to the municipal buses that pass on the street and other traffic, but there are few places in the city where that isn't an issue. That said, most rooms are off the street, the traffic is slow (4 way stop) so no fear of fast-moving vehicles to dodge and you've got the added benefit of only -one- bus ride (or at most 1 transfer) to just about any place you'd want to visit in the city. The location is also in Hayes Valley with amazing shopping just 3 blocks away (antiques, clothing, art, art supplies, groceries, etc) and some of the best restaurants in the entire region just 1-5 blocks away. At less than 200 with service, location and comfort you can't really beat that price. The first reviewer must have different definitions of comfort, eccentric, strange, queer, pleasant and friendly than I do, or they had a really bad day that day. I can't think of another reason their review would be 180' from our several experiences.

My experience with the Parsonage was brief but when someone makes such a good impression I share it :) The owners were extremely nice and they certainly didn't have a reason to be (not that I was causing trouble but I was sampling their breakfast without much of a justification for doing so.) The place does look kind of like a museum inside - cool old photos and such lined the walls. Very clean and a good central location.

Joan & Joan are wonderful hosts, chefs, and conversationalists. This is not the downtown hotel with white sheets and immaculate closets. This is someone's beautiful and charming home with custom made china, port & chocolate in the lobby, and fresh and warm breakfasts. My mom stayed here and was skeptical at first because of the location and the photos but the place is in a great location for getting around and you meet interesting people, too. I had the BEST time in the mornings there and love all the display of magazines and newspapers and old books. If you are looking to stay in a romantic and intimate home in the heart of San Francisco then book with The Parsonnage. You won't regret it!

great, clean, wonderful experience, I stayed two nights. John and Joan are wonderful, genuine people who do their best to make you feel at home. The dog is very friendly. The antiques and the decor is eclectic, artistic, grand and in really good taste.

Wow I thought my fiancé and I would love staying here from what we heard, and we would of if the owners were actually hospitable and friendly, which is the farthest from the truth. I thought we would enjoy there breakfast, which we would if it was actually cooked. And we thought we would enjoy the room which we would have if there wasn't COCKROACHES in our room and on our PILLOW! When we told john and Joan about what we found in our room they just gave us this look as if we brought them there, we left halfway in our trip because this place ruined our whole vacation. Not even a refund on the night we didn't stay, which was because of the bugs..... Grossed out being there and grossed out by just remembering this place.

This establishment is on the decline. Room was tiny, depressing, no chair to sit in, no closet. Housekeeper showed up once and left a dirty rag between the pillows. Complained to Larry so he freshened up one other time (made the bed--no cleaning). Breakfasts could have been better, creative but skimpy servings, coffee needed to be requested--not generous either. Brochure is outdated--NO second floor lounge exists with TV. Disappointed.

I want to give 0 stars but unfortunately that's not an option. In my life I've stayed in many Bed and Breakfasts and I had lovely experiences with the owners. I don't know who I spoke to on the phone in this place but who ever it was she was incredibly rude. We were driving from Los Angeles and on the way we had some problems with our car. I called the Parsonage to let them know that we might be running late. It was only 10pm when I called but no one picked up the phone. I left them a voicemail explaining our situation and that i want to make sure there will be someone there to check us in when we arrive. Nobody ever called back. I tried calling them a few more time. Left another voicemail...Nothing. Two hours later I called them again. This time some one picked up--finally! I told the woman that we're running late and told her that i've been trying to get a hold of her for hours. Strangely she said she never got my voicemail. Then she asked me when we will be arriving. I told her approximately 20 mins. She went "Nah. I won't do it. I'm going to bed." I was shocked!!!!!. I told her that i've already paid for the room, that i have no place to go, and that it was impossible to find a decent place at 10pm at night. She said "I DON'T CARE" and hung up on me! She hung up on me! I called 10 times. Both me and my boyfriend left voicemails asking them to pick up the phone and help us out. No answer. They completely ignored us. What if I had an elderly person with me? What if i had kids? She did not care at all. What kind of a person does something like that?. Thinking we might be able to get them let us in, we showed up at the door around 11pm. Rang the bell once, no answer. Twice. Nothing. We had a reservation. They took my credit card number and sent me a confirmation email and everything. In my mind, that is my destination, my home, my shelter after a 6 hour drive from Los Angeles.. She totally dismissed all that and left us without a place to go at 11pm! THAT WOMAN IS MEAN AND RUDE. She is a snotty pretentious lady who doesn't have a clue how to treat people.NOT COOL!

WOW I just called two times to see if they have availability and the guy was so rude. I told him the dates I was looking for and I said it was for two kids and two adults and he didn't even checked. He said they don't have anything available. Maybe they don't like kids in there but that's not a way to run a business.

One of the most memorable bed and breakfasts I've ever stayed in. Joan and John are absolutely lovely and the entire stay was perfect. You felt immediately at home. Better than any four star hotel, this place is cozy and elegant. We spent every evening in the foyer sipping brandy and talking amongst ourselves. The house is full of amazing history. Some of the reviews mention the breakfast was just a few pieces of toast; that seems unbelievable since each morning we were served an amazing meal, including fruit yogurt and granola Spanish tortilla and waffles. Their puppy Casper is absolutely adorable and loving - a Portuguese Water Dog, which never barked. I think it's important to remember that this is family owned bed and breakfast not a generic anonymous hotel, and you will have to actually engage as a human being with etiquette and manners.

To sum up my experience, the Parsonage has got to be one of my favorite B&B's that I've ever stayed in! The surroundings make you feel like being in a living museum, which even expensive hotels can't compete with. The staff was great too...friendly and they really go out of their way to make you feel at home. Probably my favorite experience besides enjoying a fire in the marble fire place in my bedroom was waking up every morning to the smell of bacon coming from the kitchen down stairs :) When I first looked at the neighborhood and not being from San Fran I wasn't sure at first but then realized it's in the perfect location. It's right on the bus line that takes you strait into down town, it's surrounded by local restaurants and bars, and only a short walk from Haight-Ashbury. If I plan to visit San Fran again, I'm definitely booking a room here again!

This was our third stay at the Parsonage and we couldn't be happier with the accommodations. The Parsonage itself is charming and quite possibly unique and thus draws a wonderfully diverse clientele. Breakfast is a five-star meal! Joan and John are gracious and helpful, but not obtrusive hosts.

My partner and I spent five nights at The Parsonage Bed & Breakfast and were delighted with our hosts and the surroundings. The house, built in 1880, has been beautifully restored and is filled with interesting art and antiques. Joan and John, the proprietors, are very smart, charming, cultivated people, and they tend to attract the same type guests. Lavish breakfasts are served at a large round table in a formal dining room. I expected an awkward situation being seated in such close proximity to total strangers, but breakfast turned out to be a high point of every day. All of the other guests were interesting and intelligent people, so conversation was lively and freewheeling. People tended to dawdle at the table, reluctant to leave such a friendly atmosphere. Pilar (a beautiful Portuguese Water Dog) is the dog of the house, and she has a delightful personality-- dog lovers will be in heaven. The Parsonage only has three guestrooms. There is a grand parlor on the first floor filled with interesting and helpful books and maps... even complimentary cordials! Our room, The Lagan, had two beds with AMAZING mattresses. The room was spacious with high ceilings and tall windows and attractively furnished with antiques. The bathroom's doll-like fixtures took some adjusting to get used to... prepare to wash one ear at a time in the tiny sink. But there was plenty of hot water with good pressure. I loved the spray from the hand held shower attachment and the heated towel rack. The bathroom window had a sheer curtain with no shade. I'm not shy or a prude, but I would have preferred more privacy for some bathroom functions. I was sorry to leave The Parsonage and I wanted to take Joan, John and Pilar home with me.

The Parsonage is extraordinary! John and Joan are wonderful hosts. Rooms are topnotch. Breakfast is cooked perfectly to your request. Beautifully appointed. Great place to have a port or sherry before bed.

LOVED IT! The house is an 1800s 4 level mansion and was absolutely breathtaking. The owners and staff were friendly and knowledgeable about places in the city to see. Breakfast was excellent and portions were nice. Close by parking wasn't difficult. You do have to like walking and there are lots of restaurants close by not to mention easy access to public transportation just a couple blocks away.

This Bed and Breakfast was absolutely wonderful! John and Joan were warm, kind, and welcoming, the house was clean, gorgeous, and the location couldn't be beat! It was close to Muni stops and BART. They even have an elevator! I loved the old architectural San Francisco charm of the house. The breakfasts were homecooked, delicious, and filling. One morning, we had the best waffles we have ever tasted. It was a very pleasant experience and I wouldn't stay anywhere else in San Francisco! They have a sweet dog that I loved petting and playing with also. Our room was beautiful, with a very comfy bed and pillows and a private bathroom. It was light and bright. We just loved staying there.

If you are tired of cookie cutter hotels and are looking for an amazing home away from home experience, this is the place. Everything about the Parsonage is welcoming. The building itself is worth the trip. It is San Francisco Historical Landmark #164 build in 1883, completely refurbished and immaculately clean. Three stories of San Francisco history with eye candy in every room. It is close to many good restaurants, but don't miss breakfast at the Parsonage. Larry is a wizard in the kitchen and every morning is a treat. If fact, they should allow guests to eat in the kitchen it is the coziest room in the house. You won't find a television in the rooms and the elevator is not the fastest, but this just adds to the charm. We will be back soon.

We didn't get the best first impresson as Joan and John were out when we arrived so no one was there. There was a note on the door to say would be back in a few minutes and then Ricky arrived and showed us our room. Ricky was OK but he was in a bit of a rush and could not completely answer our questions (best places to eat being one as it was early evening and after a long drive we were ready to eat). Joan and John are great hosts and were very accomodating with breakfast when we told them that we had an early tour start the next day. They seemed more concerned about us getting out the door in time that we were. John also gave us a lot of tourist advice and was better than any guide that we came across. Great location to see the city with public transport very close. We did find the bed a little hard but other than that the room was very nice. Parking can of course be a challenge so if you do happen to be driving find a good spot and only move your car if you have to. We enjoyed dinners at Samovar (very close), Mazzat (also close by) and Hayes & Kebab (again within walking distance).

Woohoo! The Parsonage is as great as it gets. John and Joan are incredibly special people. You will be enchanted by this place. The waffles are the best that you'll ever have the pleasure to have.

This place is a total find! It's located in a wonderful, cool, but not overly trendy San Francisco neighborhood called Hayes Valley. It's in walking distance of some amazing restaurants (including the incredible Zuni Cafe) and close to the Civic Center performing arts venues including the ballet and opera house, and the Castro. The Parsonage is in an enormous, beautiful Victorian-style home with probably the highest ceilings I've ever seen. Our family stayed in several rooms and each was perfectly decorated with antiques and art and had luxurious bathrooms with towel warmers! But my favorite part was the beds--which they apparently get from some local, handmade mattress maker. With the super-soft down comforters, it felt like you were sleeping on a cloud. (I should mention that although the rooms have phones and wi-fi, they don't have TVs, which was fine for us but might be an issue for some people.) The owners, Joan and John, are classic longtime San Francisco residents: smart and opinionated but very helfpul and friendly. (I'm not sure what the previous reviewer did to piss them off, but we found them to be nothing but sweet and gracious.) They're also amazing cooks, so the breakfasts were crazy good. We had french toast and thick bacon slices one day; fluffy delicious "dutch baby" pancacks with fruit another. I would totally recommend this place to a business traveler or couple on a romantic getaway who are looking for something special for a reasonable price.

Very disappointed. My husband and I have stayed in bed and breakfasts all over the country and have always had a positive experience until the Parsonage. We read the Internet brochure stating large rooms with fresh flowers and comfortable bed/bedding,etc. When we arrived the innkeeper on duty, Larry, greeted us and shook hands(his hand was dripping wet(he stated from laundry)-ugh. The foyer and parlor were very pretty so I let the wet handshake go. We were shown through the house to an elevator next to the kitchen and observed chicken breasts sitting out on table with flys overhead. When we reached our room, Larry opened the door to a motel 6ish looking room....dark, no flowers, small. We sat on the bed and almost fell through, it was in such bad shape. The linen was old and tired. When I pulled back the bedspread there were little tiny brown things...looked like bug excrement. We panicked, informed Larry we were going to another hotel. Larry was very nice about the whole situation and offered to help us find different lodging. Before we left, we noticed the raw chicken remained on the table with the flys overhead. Bon appetit.

We enjoyed our long weekend at The Parsonage very much. Our room was comfortable and quiet. The breakfasts were wonderful. The innkeepers (who were not all that old-the other reviewers must just be very young!) were helpful and delightful. We asked lots of questions about the history of their lovely 1880s home and were very interested in hearing the answers. I am not always a fan of bed and breakfast establishments and usually prefer large, anonymous hotels. But we would definitely return to The Parsonage and probably will do so as long as our son is living in the Lower Haight neighborhood.

This place is amazing. I have stayed here twice. Joan and John are the ultimate hosts in this gorgeous 130 year old mansion. All original details lovingly restored. Both rooms I stayed in had the most comfortable beds with McCroskey mattresses and great linens. The beds were cozier than my own at home. And both bathrooms attached to my rooms were cozy and clean and perfect. This is a true home away from home with a great location. The morning breakfast is delicious as well. I'll stay here whenever I am in San Francisco--truly a special place.