Located in the heart of Palo Alto, CA and Silicon Valley, The Zen Hotel boasts boutique style accommodations, clean Asian design and offers exceptional value with a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet.
Many customers praised the hotel for its clean rooms and well-maintained facilities, although some noted issues with specific rooms.
Staff Service
The staff received consistent positive feedback for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating.
Breakfast Quality
Guests appreciated the variety and quality of the complimentary breakfast, often highlighting it as a standout feature.
Location
The hotel is well-located near Stanford University and local amenities, making it convenient for guests.
Room Condition
While many rooms were described as comfortable and spacious, some guests reported issues with outdated decor and maintenance problems.
AH
Ari Hershowitz
2 days ago
2.0
The toilet overflowed after just one flush (pee). The hotel did not have another room and said they could not get someone to repair it tonight. They said I could use the bathroom downstairs and across the property at the lobby or gym. They also offered to refund the night - if I left to find another hotel, which I did. They didn't recognize how inconvenient (and costly) it is to have to move in the middle of a stay. I expected some refund from the previous night as well or a coupon for a future stay, considering the trouble. I'm now at Dinah's Garden Inn down the road and much happier.
CK
Cher K.
5 days ago
4.0
Front Desk staff was very nice & accomodating! However, the maid came too early for cleaning, as we forgot that the Do Not Disturb sign was on the desk.
RP
Rosario Palacios
6 days ago
5.0
Staff are friendly and helpful. Facilities are clean, good place to stay.
LP
LG Perry
Jan 4, 2026
5.0
We chose this hotel due to great price and also close to our relative we were visiting. Everything was great. Easy parking. Great location. Great bed and amenities. Love the dimmer lights. The black out curtains worked so well we slept in! Great breakfast every morning and love the early start at 6:30am! We will book this place again!
KJ
Kathy Jorgensen
Dec 27, 2025
5.0
I am highly allergic to fragrances and have not been able to stay at a hotel for some time, since they all seem to use scented cleaning products. I asked Zen if it's possible to have a room cleaned with fragrance-free products. They said they would do so upon request, so I reserved a room. My nose was very happy to have a room that just smelled like outside air! I also enjoyed the instant hot water, microwave, and mini-fridge. Temperature controls were easy to use. The wifi speed seemed reasonably fast. There are lots of device-charging outlets in the room. The area is very quiet, despite being on a very busy street. There is free parking onsite (a little tight in places, but adequate). There is a small gym onsite with a treadmill and other basic machines. The free breakfast includes some hot items (sausage, eggs, potatoes), a waffle maker, and oatmeal, as well as cereal, small pastries, fresh fruit, yogurt, toast, and juices. They were very good about keeping all fresh food stocked during the whole breakfast period. I will definitely stay here again if I need to be in the Palo Alto area.
The Zen Hotel is located at 4164 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306, United States.
What are the check-in hours at The Zen Hotel?
The Zen Hotel is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
What type of accommodations does The Zen Hotel offer?
The Zen Hotel offers boutique-style accommodations with clean Asian design and exceptional value.
Does The Zen Hotel provide breakfast?
Yes, The Zen Hotel offers a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet to its guests.
What payment methods are accepted at The Zen Hotel?
The Zen Hotel accepts American Express, Cash, Check, MasterCard, and Visa.
How can I contact The Zen Hotel for reservations or inquiries?
You can contact The Zen Hotel by phone at +1 650-493-4492 or via email at stay@thezenhotel.com.
Where can I find more information or book a room at The Zen Hotel?
More information and direct booking can be done on their website at http://www.thezenhotel.com/.
What nearby places can I visit around The Zen Hotel?
Nearby places include BPC Art Studio, Awazi African Heritage Center, and Merna Tajaddod Orthodontics, offering options for art, community services, and dental care.
Are there convenient places to buy pharmacy or convenience items near The Zen Hotel?
Yes, Walgreens is located nearby providing pharmacy services and convenience store products.
Where can I get coffee or a snack close to The Zen Hotel?
Nearby you can find Starbucks and Anko Bakery Cafe for coffee and bakery treats.