The most confusing thing about the Hilton Financial District is its name. It is not really in the financial district. But if you called it the Hilton Chinatown every local would strongly advise against staying there. That would be a shame. This former Holiday Inn location was renovated in 2005 and is now one of the best finds in the city (for the price).
It is in the middle of the city so the rooms are not palatial, but they are certainly big enough. And the views from the executive floors are incredible. The service is also 4-star. But as they say, it is really all about location, location, location. This hotel is perfectly situated on the edge of Chinatown, 1/2 block from North Beach (Italian restaurants, clubs, etc), 10 minute walk to Union Square, 15 minutes to Ferry Bldg (market, great food, etc.), Fisherman's Wharf is a 25 minute walk - all flat, by the way from this part of town! Being on the edge of Chinatown means you are near this key attraction but spared of its dirt and grime. Oh, and you are across the street from one of the better Chinese restaurants: R&G Lounge (newly renovated as well). We've been twice, recommended it once and everyone's been really happy.