The price is high for a small hotel like this. The rooms were ok, clean but kind of worn. Breakfasts were decent. Service was ok. If it were priced lower it would be fine, but at the current rates the hotels in Emeryville are actually better and they aren't that hot.

It is really hard to find a place to stay in oakland/berkeley. I spent the first few days of my trip in san francisco and then needed to be in the east bay for four nights. I booked RGI from the web site. The price was 169.00 for king bed, fireplace etc. Additionally, there is a $20 room tax. I am used to getting better prices but this not a corporate hotel so I suppose it is good to support the small business owner. The hotel itself is a little bit, "What Ever Happened To Baby Jane," with some freaky gothic touches and grandma aesthetic. The room was comfortable and placed in the back of the hotel so it was very quiet. I would like to see an upgrade in the quality of the bedding. It is basically old style hotel plastic blankets and spreads. The location however cannot be beat and as there is no where else to stay in berkeley (except the claremont ..which I HATE!!)
I will most definitely stay here again.

It's interesting how varied the reviews are for the RGI. I've stayed here half a dozen times, and I've always found it a pleasure. Yes, some upgrading needs to be done, and the rooms (I've been in four) seem a bit overdecorated. But so what? The front desk staff, especially Gabriel, are very nice, and I always feel well taken care of. Breakfast is just fine and the coffee is very good; I only wish it started at 7:00 instead of 7:30. I'll be coming to Berkeley on business again, and I wouldn't think of staying anywhere else.

First off, I know this is a long review, but to interested travelers, it's worth the read!

>When I first called the RG, I was politely greeted and assisted by the staff as I inquired about pricing and availability. They were flexible and helpful with my many questions, which eased my concerns, considering the weekend was an EXTREMELY important one. (aren't they always??)
>The day of our arrival, I phoned ahead (as advised) to see if we could check in early, which turned out to be no problem, and while I had them on the phone, I mentioned it was my fiance's birthday and inquired as to what I might be able to purchase to dress up the room before our arrival. Personnel(who turned out to be the innkeeper himself :] ) mentioned that they would regularly run out and gather us champagne and flowers, but unfortunately they were unable to do so on that day. I was not put off by this at all seeing as how it was a last minute request and our room was ready for us hours before scheduled check-in. But when we checked into our room, I was surprised by the gracious gesture of generosity and hospitality when the innkeeper informed us that he had upgraded our room in acknowledgment of my fiance's special day.
>>>To top it off, the room was incredible - bedside fireplace, tv, microwave, spacious tiled bathroom, etc. - and the location was PERFECT for our vacation. Downtown SF was only ~15 or so minutes away and you could walk to most anything you could need right from the inn. We appreciate the nightlife and staying out late wasn't a problem, as the atmosphere was relaxed as opposed to stifling, which can sometimes occur in smaller locations. Not to mention hot water ran for at least 30 minutes, staff was pleasant,and the grounds were clean and beautiful. Parking spaces were effective, but I'd suggest parking your car before 7 pm if you want space in the lot.
> All in all, it was a DREAM vacation, and we'll definitely be going back!!!!