San Francisco's Legendary Phoenix Hotel Rises Again

The iconic rock 'n' roll hotel, once slated for closure, will continue operating under new ownership.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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After announcing it would close last year, San Francisco's legendary Phoenix Hotel has been acquired by a new owner and will remain open. The hotel, known for its rock 'n' roll history and celebrity clientele, was originally opened by Chip Conley in the 1980s. It was recently purchased by Michel Suas, the owner of B. Patisserie, who is expected to continue operating the hotel as usual.

Why it matters

The Phoenix Hotel has been a beloved institution in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood for decades, serving as a hub for the city's music and entertainment scene. Its continued operation preserves an important piece of the city's cultural heritage and provides a unique experience for both locals and visitors.

The details

The Phoenix Hotel was originally opened by Chip Conley in the 1980s and gained a reputation for its rock 'n' roll revelry, hosting everyone from John F. Kennedy Jr. to Sinéad O'Connor. In recent years, it has also been a venue for dance music parties. After Conley sold the property in 2024, it looked like the hotel would be closing down. However, new owner Michel Suas, the owner of B. Patisserie, has acquired the hotel's assets and plans to continue operating it.

  • The Phoenix Hotel was originally opened by Chip Conley in the 1980s.
  • In 2024, Michel Suas purchased the hotel's lot and building for $9.1 million.
  • In January 2026, the Phoenix Hotel announced it would be closing after a New Year's Eve blowout.
  • In early February 2026, the Phoenix Hotel confirmed that Suas has acquired all of the hotel's assets and is expected to continue operating it as usual.

The players

Chip Conley

The original owner of the Phoenix Hotel, who opened it in the 1980s.

Michel Suas

The owner of B. Patisserie, who purchased the Phoenix Hotel's lot and building in 2024 for $9.1 million.

Binoy Patel

A local hotel owner who previously managed the neighboring Civic Center Inn and is now associated with the Phoenix Hotel's future operations.

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What they’re saying

“Your heart still beats here. Glad to take that responsibility Chip to keep it alive. Good things are forthcoming. The Phoenix is alive and well!! Can't wait for you to come and see what I will do next. Blessed to have opportunity to continue your legacy. The Phoenix lives.”

— Binoy Patel (LinkedIn)

What’s next

The new owner, Michel Suas, is expected to continue operating the Phoenix Hotel as usual, though the specific details of the hotel's future are still being worked out.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Hotel's continued operation under new ownership preserves an iconic piece of San Francisco's cultural history, ensuring that the city's music and entertainment scene can continue to thrive in this legendary venue.