Overrated, expensive and just "OK"
I don't understand the 4 and 5-star reviews for this hotel property. While the hotel isn't a dump by any means, it also isn't anything special. Yeah, its historic and gaudy and in the heart of Union Square. I guess if you're a very wealthy traveler that wants to dump a lot of money at Saks Fifth Avenue and love the expensive bar scene, this is the place for you. But for the average tourist visiting San Francisco, you'd be better off staying in a different hotel.
We used Starwood points to stay here, and at 10,000 a night its a rip-off. Face it, you're paying for the hotel's history and location. They put us in the old section of the hotel with a window facing another room about 30 feet away. Nothing like the view of a naked old man getting dressed in the morning to make you feel good about your vacation!
Now the good points: the Heavenly shower is awesome, the room was clean, and the signature Westin Heavenly Bed was wonderful! But these items certainly don't make up for an expensive and mediocre hotel.