SenS Hotel & Vanne Bistro Berkeley

The location was surprising and different. It felt cozy and private. The staff were very helpful and friendly. I liked the location, just on the edge of downtown, so it felt less hectic and had great restaurants. The clientele in the Bistro were colorful and interesting. An older gentleman softly played jazz guitar and regale his friends with stories about the history of music in the area from jazz to bluegrass, naming all the people he knew. He said he came in every am, so obviously feels comfortable there. I grew up in Berkeley and was visiting. I'm also a musician and familiar with the history of the people he knew. I really enjoyed staying at the hotel and getting that cool Berkeley feeling again.

Loved the thoughtfulness that went into making it a pleasant place to stay: robes and slippers, multiple places to lay suitcases out, hangers that don't require special effort to get them off the rack, adequate drawer and shelf space, a room safe, many amenities (fridge, electric kettle, microwave, coffee & tea, ceramic and glass mugs, outlets, end tables and reading lights on both sides of the bed, tourist info, desk and chair, additional easy chair, balcony with table and chairs, bathroom essentials like soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, lotion, shampoo, and conditioner, adequate places to hang towels, decent towels and enough of them - you get the picture), lots of light, a great grocery store next door, a decent bed and pillows, and proximity to everything. Plus you can get breakfast/lunch at the Cafe with several vouchers for free coffee.

There was free coffee. There was not free breakfast. The location is central to wonderful restaurants and backs up to a nice neighborhood with overnight fee parking. Shares a side of building with a grocery store, but was quiet overnight. Breakfast pastries looked good. I love Cheeseboard Collective next door. I will stay again. Nice microwave and mini fridge. Shower was modern and large. Spacious room that was well decorated. They’re doing the most with what they’ve got. Not a new Hyatt in Emeryville, so if that’s your heart’s desire, enjoy that. This hotel is perfect for my preferences.

Perfect location right on Shattuck ! Many great places to eat and visit by walking just a few steps. Gourmet Market next door, Safeway and CVS right up the street .We ate at Saul’s Deli twice ( and took pastries home ) and had an amazing dinner at LoCocos authentic Sicilian. The room was very well appointed and had a cute little private terrace. Top notch toiletries and bathrobes , bedding, iron, hairdryer… well thought out. Coffee shop served top notch cappuccino ( Sono Italiano) in cozy Bohemian atmosphere with History of modern art / impressionist theme. Worth the little extra cost to have the boutique experience; don’t hesitate or even think about staying down near the marina area just saying this is the better neighborhood.

Another great stay at Sens Berkeley! Can't beat this great location and friendly café downstairs (also goodies and coffee at nearby Cheese Board and original Peets Coffee). Walk to UC Berkeley campus easily. Rooms come with small refrigerator, microwave, and some eating utensils and plates -- you can eat al fresco in the the rooms with balconies. The market next door has a great take-out selection.