—Mary Ta Founder/Owner, Minotti & Mass Beverly Creators of West Hollywood
VVibrating with a virtual force field of creative energy, West Hollywood attracts and cultivates today’s top trend-setters and visionaries. Distinct from the cities and suburbs that surround it, West Hollywood is its own entity, a two-square-mile North
Star for people who crave originality, appreciate innovation, revere artistry, and respect excellence. Here in these diverse and historic environs, an eclectic array of elevated experiences awaits you: The city’s vibrant LGBTQ scene and forward-thinking mindset lay the foundation for an all-embracing nightlife that offers something for everyone, from cool, exclusive hideaways to buzzing social hubs. Visitors and locals love how each of West Hollywood’s diverse and walkable neighborhoods—Santa Monica Boulevard, Sunset Strip, and the Design District—possesses its own vibe. Where to go first? You need only decide which experience your heart most desires.
WWhen Ferus Gallery, once located on North La Cienega Boulevard, hosted Andy Warhol’s first commercial gallery exhibit of “Campbell's Soup Cans” paintings in 1962, it marked the beginning of West Hollywood’s synonymity with art and artists in the eyes of many historians. The Pacific Design Center, a collection of showrooms for design professionals, opened its first building in 1975, and the city is now known for its many world-class galleries, interior design shops, and colorful murals.
Inside this stunning glass-front, 4,000-square-foot gallery, opened in 2013 as the first of only two Leica galleries in the United States, visitors can see exhibitions by established as well as up-and-coming Leica photographers. A collection of rare books by Martin Parr and a multimedia space for Leica Akademie lectures is also on site. The gallery is open daily and offers complimentary valet parking, making it easy to stop by
spontaneously. leicagalleryla.com
Founded in 1925 at a time when there were few public art exhibition venues in L.A., the Los Angeles Art Association has maintained its mission to increase access to fine art for the community by hosting regular exhibitions, lectures, and programs. It also provides opportunities and resources for its emerging artist members, and many celebrated artists are
Take a stroll through the city to discover why it’s a hub for art and design.
among the alumni, including Arnold Mesches, Man Ray, and Helen Lundeberg, to name a few. laaa.org
The birthplace of Southern California modernism, the Schindler House was designed by famed Austrian-born architect Rudolph Schindler in 1922 as a communal living experiment for himself and his wife and another couple. Now,
the iconic structure is the headquarters for the MAK Center for Art and Architecture, housing special exhibits like the upcoming “Seeking Zohn” (April 1–July 23), showcasing the work of Austrian Mexican architect and engineer Alejandro Zohn. makcenter.org/ schindler-house
At the epicenter of the Design District and located just one block away from each other, creative tastemaker Mary Ta’s two
showrooms cater to high-end European modern-design enthusiasts, including clients Beyoncé and Jay-Z and Calvin Klein. Ta launched Italian furniture brand Minotti’s first flagship showroom in 2002, while MASS Beverly is a 20,000-squarefoot showroom for more than 100 brands offering comprehensive 360-degree interior design services. minotti-la.com; massbeverly.com
SUNSET SPECTACULAR
A vibrant addition
to the Sunset Strip unveiled in the spring of 2021, the Sunset Spectacular is a billboard display like no other. Designed by Tom Wiscombe Architecture, the stainless steel tower, which visitors can walk through, displays multimedia advertisements as well as an inaugural digital art installation. The surrounding park and garden with benches looking out on the Sunset Strip provides a welcome respite to relax while exploring the area. orangebarrelmedia. com/sunset-spectacular
The city’s apex of shopping, art, and style, the Design District is the destination for leading-edge home design, trend-setting fashion, and celebrity dining enclaves.
A testament to the power of visual arts, West Hollywood’s Design District enriches the soul and stimulates the senses. The upscale shopping mecca is a showcase of unique works in contemporary interior design and boasts more than 200 storefronts featuring of-the-moment creations in home furnishings, fashion, beauty, and, of course, art. Anchoring the neighborhood is the sleek, azure-blue giant that is the Pacific Design Center (pacificdesigncenter.com), a commercial market complex that hosts art- and designrelated classes, events, and exhibitions, and numerous branded interior design boutiques.
Take a stroll on the District’s Beverly Boulevard, where interior design stores such as RH Modern West Hollywood (rh.com) and Luminaire (luminaire.com) will challenge your imagination with elite collections in furniture, textiles, décor, lighting, and more. Keep those creative juices flowing at Leica Store and Leica Gallery (leicacamerausa.com, leicagalleryla.com), destinations for photographers of all stripes. Much more than a camera store, Leica also hosts rotating photography exhibitions in its gallery, opened in 2013 to celebrate the groundbreaking work of today’s most talked-about media artists.
In the Design District, you don’t have to look far to appreciate amazing artistic talent—it’s fully displayed on the streets thanks to Art on the Outside, the West Hollywood Fine
Arts Commission’s program that oversees the City’s installations of rotating artworks, including its many distinctive murals (weho. org), accentuating this singular sector’s urban appeal. Those maintaining a social media presence will want to check out the Pink Wall, an Insta-worthy bubblegum-hued spot that spans one side of the Paul Smith (paulsmith. com) flagship store in the Melrose Avenue Shopping District. While you’re in the vicinity, prepare to make a purchase or two: Whether you opt for name designers like Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood or gravitate toward funky boutiques and the vintage wares at consignment shops, you’ll find your nirvana here. Wolf & Badger (wolfandbadger. com), the U.K.-based fashion retailer known for working with independent designers, is one of the area’s popular newcomers.
A memorable meal is an easy find in the Design District. The newly opened Zinc Cafe & Market (zinccafe.com), with its vegetarian-forward menu and natureembracing atmosphere, is a quintessential West Hollywood selection. Prefer a cheesy slice? Dig into several at Pizzana (pizzana. com), acclaimed for its signature “slow dough” technique. You can always up the ante with a decadent seafood repast (Maine lobster, anyone?) at Catch LA (catchrestaurants. com) or indulge in classic American dining at celebrity favorite Craig’s (craigs.la), where the Southern-fried chicken comes with truffle honey and the rib eye gets the compound butter treatment. Keep the party going at E.P. and L.P. (eplosangeles.com), namely the L.P. Rooftop, where piquant, handcrafted cocktails are paired with views that are second to none. Still have energy to burn? The 1960s are calling at The Peppermint Club (peppermintclub. com), a lounge-style venue featuring live music and a cushy setting reminiscent of the groovy hangouts of yesteryear.
In this elegant part of town, accommodations can become a vital part of your city experience. Ideally nestled at the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard lies Kimpton La Peer Hotel (lapeerhotel.com). The LEED Silver certified green Kimpton La Peer goes beyond the ordinary with wellness-oriented amenities such as custom-designed public bikes and in-room yoga mats in a refined boutique-style setting. The recently renovated Le Parc Suite Hotel (leparcsuites.com) has embraced the message in a distinctively creative way. The chic retreat’s sundrenched lobby and study, and spacious residential-style suites, feature stunningly modern interior design and artwork, emblematic of the Design District.
For tastemaker Mary Ta, life in West Hollywood is one big, beautiful adventure. The founder and owner of two of the world’s most influential design showrooms, Minotti and MASS Beverly, Ta has an eclectic-modern aesthetic that has earned her high-profile clients ranging from Beyoncé and Jay-Z to Calvin Klein.
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This is where it intersects. This is where design, fashion, music, politics, partying, food, residential, and business mix. The City of West Hollywood is a birthplace of unconventional freedom."
Start your day stylishly with Le Breakfast Bowl at Zinqué (lezinque. com), a self-described “high design, lowkey neighborhood restaurant” set right across from the iconic Pacific Design Center (pacificdesigncenter. com), which, conveniently, is your next stop. Spread over three massive and strikingly shaped buildings—one red, one green, and one blue—along San Vicente Boulevard between Melrose Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, the PDC (as it’s known to locals) is home to strollable showrooms for more than 70 esteemed global interior design brands. Head down Melrose for your latemorning appointment (bookable in advance on their website) at Leclaireur Gallery (leclaireurla.com), the home-focused Los Angeles outpost of the high-end French retailer, featuring one-of-a-kind furniture and art pieces from across the world and an exceptional selection of Fornasetti housewares.
For lunch, duck into the hip but very welcoming (and sometimes celebsprinkled) Cecconi’s (cecconiswesthollywood. com) for one of their fantastic handmade pasta specialties. Then continue your deep dive into the West Hollywood Design District (westhollywooddesign district.com), which encompasses more than 200 boutiques, flagship stores, art galleries, interior design showrooms, and more, all packed neatly along Robertson Boulevard, Melrose
Avenue, and Beverly Boulevard. Don’t miss Luminaire (luminaire. com), with over 15,000 square feet of some of the most important brands in home design, including exclusive works like kitchen designs by Minimal.
This evening, you’ll dine at Soulmate (soulmateweho.com), where the Spanish Mediterranean cuisine from chef Rudy Lopez has made it one of the most popular new restaurants in West Hollywood, and where a real olive tree takes center stage in the décor. Try the tasting menu, including Soulmate’s delicious ceviche, paella bites, and uni toast. Cap off your style-soaked day with a drink at the chic Tower Bar (sunsettowerhotel.com/ restaurants-and-bar/ tower-bar) in the historic Sunset Tower Hotel, where you can sip your Tower Smash and gaze at sweeping views of Downtown Los Angeles,
inside what was once gangster Bugsy Siegel’s apartment.
What better way to kick off a day of West Hollywood art exploration than in an actual gallery?
Santa Monica Boulevard’s Blackwood Coffee Bar (blackwoodcoffeebar. com) is a stylish new addition to the city’s eastside media district, a sleek java joint filled with inclusive and attainable art. Have a Beyond Breakfast Burrito and your drink of choice with Blackwood’s proprietary blend, then walk a block west to the Nino Mier Gallery (miergallery.com), one of the Los Angeles area’s buzziest contemporary galleries, representing major global art stars on the rise like Celeste Dupuy-Spencer. Head a few more blocks farther down Santa Monica Boulevard to Wallspace (wallspacela.com), where
West Hollywood is at the leading edge of interior design, art, and architecture. A two-day guide to experiencing the galleries, showrooms, and restaurants that epitomize the city’s creative style.
the art is edgy, unique, and affordable, with diverse pieces ranging from urban to street to pop. Continue your westward stroll down SMB to your lunch spot, Cafe Patio at Conservatory (conservatoryweho.com/ cafe-patio). Housed in a street-level historical landmark, it’s the casual daytime component of the multitiered Conservatory complex. Try the yummy tacos (either Baja fish or short rib and mole), then start your arty afternoon at Maddox Gallery (maddoxgallery. com/galleries/6-losangeles), the only American location of the international and highly influential Maddox family of galleries. The 3,000-square-foot space and its striking vaulted ceilings host exhibitions by both established and emerging artists. But not all of West Hollywood’s fantastic art is stuck indoors—across the city, there’s plenty on display
outdoors, too, including murals by world-class artists like RETNA and Kenny Scharf, whose works grace the walls of the five-story parking structure at West Hollywood Park.
Dinner this evening is at the spectacular Merois (wolfgangpuck. com/dining/meroiswest-hollywood) on the rooftop of the new Pendry West Hollywood along the legendary Sunset Strip. Wolfgang Puck’s first Los Angelesarea restaurant in ten years offers classically Puck French-Asian fusion (like the incredible Crispy Rice Crab Salad followed by the Dark Chocolate Soufflé), all with breathtaking views of L.A. Wrap up your design and art experience with a drink or two at Harlowe (harlowebar.com), where the décor harkens back to Hollywood’s Golden Era, and the clever cocktails like the Accidental Wes Anderson reflect West Hollywood’s current golden era of creativity.
SShopping in West Hollywood is not just an idle pastime; it’s a window into the origin of tomorrow’s trends, brought to you straight from the creative minds of brilliant designers and retail conceptualizers. Whether you’re a casual and spontaneous browser, a walking barometer of the season’s hottest looks, or a worshipper of all things vintage, West Hollywood has you covered. Just slip into your most stylish walking shoes and explore the many eclectic shops that await you throughout the streets of the Design District, Sunset Strip, and Santa Monica Boulevard neighborhoods.
This local favorite featuring men’s clothing and accessories, jewelry, gifts, and items for the home has been a Santa Monica Boulevard staple since 2006. Where else can you pick up an antiqued compass necklace, a gold-foil–finish low-rise brief, a vintage rock ’n’ roll T-shirt, and a classic white buttondown shirt? The store’s founder, Evan Hughes, is a dedicated champion of LGBTQ+ causes who has inspired a loyal clientele. shopatbrick.com
Exceptional craftsmanship and impeccable taste are the constants behind this unusual shop’s selection of classics and statement pieces, including menswear, womenswear, and woven accessories for wear or home. The Elder Statesman’s particular point of pride is its facility in Downtown L.A., where most of the company’s items are skillfully produced by handloom knitters, weavers, and dyers. Not to be missed: the shop’s seasonal collections, featuring stunningly colorful street designs. elder-statesman.com
Experience the city’s trendsetting shopping scene and find everything from rare vintage designer pieces to cutting-edge styles from the world’s top creatives.
Fred Segal established itself as a purveyor of pop-culture–infused clothing in the 1960s. Although Segal himself died in 2021, this flagship location on Sunset Boulevard keeps his legacy alive by honoring his initial concept. Check out the Jeans Bar, an iconic wall of denim harkening back to when this wardrobe staple was the primary inventory. Today, the massive new store boasts collections for men, women, and kids, all with the original pop-culture influence in mind. fredsegal.com
fashionably slouchy cable knits and sweats, flowing florals and plaids, a fetching selection of knit beanies and corduroy caps, and much more. thisisthegreat.com
and leisurely way for shoppers to explore the historically inspired creations at Les Habitudes, the elegance of Badgley Mischka, the casual glam of Mac & Kelly, the
understated elegance of Caterina Coyne, and more. For eyewear, jewelry, and watches, Oliver Peoples and F.P. Journe are among the premium offerings. sunsetplaza.com
Located in the Design District, THE GREAT is the brainchild of Emily Current and Meritt Elliott, whose talent in design and entrepreneurship has given rise to this retail slice of heaven that carries women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing. The women’s line, dubbed by InStyle magazine as “classic Americana with a cool-girl edge,” features
Clothing resale is a growing trend, and for all the best reasons: The practice is environmentally friendly, less expensive for shoppers, and a great way for sellers to make the most of their madeto-last investment. The RealReal specializes in upcycled, authenticated luxury clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories, from both established and new designers. Get a taste of this win-win shopping phenomenon at West Hollywood’s Melrose Avenue location. therealreal.com
With more than 50 retailers, restaurants, and services conveniently nestled within its two-block strip, this picturesque outdoor shopping area is a convenient
Pastry lovers are well acquainted with Bottega Louie, where glass cases are lined with flaky croissants, éclairs, tarts, cakes, and rows of Pantone-hued macarons. While the desserts here are the main draws, the pizzas, pastas, and entrées on Bottega Louie’s Italian-French menu are equally impressive. Share a house-made pizza or salad. Then, opt for a carbonara with crispy pancetta and an organic poached egg or dry aged bone-in rib eye with fries. On weekends, the open-air patio beckons diners to linger for a leisurely brunch of peachy Bellini and
savory Croque Madame. bottegalouie.com
A sun-drenched botanical wonderland, The Butcher’s Daughter features breakfast favorites, inventive salads, stone-oven pizzas, house-made pastas, and hearty entrées. Inside the expansive restaurant with white-washed walls and mint-green accents, customers can belly up to a custommade 25-foot-long greenhouse and bar and sip on jewel-toned craft cocktails. For the plantbased menu, Naplesborn chef Andy Barbato came up with whimsical vegetarian takes on
dishes, including Carrot Lox, Eggplant Oysters, and a Crab Cake Benedict that’s made with jackfruit, quinoa, and sweet potato. The cheeses atop the blistered pizzas can be swapped with vegan mozzarella or cashew ricotta. thebutchersdaughter. com
The ambience at Cavatina at the Sunset Marquis is nothing short of transporting: A stunning open-air lounge and covered patio face a lush, exotic flowering garden, vines climb the pillars of the patio, and dappled sunlight streams into
the space. Chef Luis Morales creates fresh menus complementing the season and setting, carefully choosing local ingredients. The vibe is casual at the sleek bar, the perfect spot for a lunchtime Sunset Wagyu cheeseburger or bucatini pasta with a glass of wine from the impressive wine list. Start dinner on the patio with chilled oysters with yuzu ponzu or the porcini tortellini, followed by grilled Duroc pork tomahawk or Scottish salmon. A dessert favorite is the warm chocolate chip cookies, or try the Cali cheese plate paired with a local wine.
sunsetmarquis.com/ cavatina-restaurant
The Sunset Strip institution has reopened with a stunning indoor/outdoor space redesigned by artist and sculptor Nora Shields. Enjoy draft cocktails with native ingredients, and a menu from chef Ronnie de Leon featuring comfort food, raw bar offerings, and shared plates. Then stay and experience the energy on the dance floor or share a drink in a dark, cozy booth. thedenonsunset.com
LAVO may be a relative newcomer in West Hollywood, but it’s already a bona fide hot spot serving upscale
Italian American cuisine in a modern space with checkered floors, plush banquettes and chairs, and a horseshoe-shaped marble bar. Chef Ralph Scamardella, the chief culinary officer at Tao Group Hospitality, developed the coastal Italy-meets-SoCal menu of antipasti, salads, handmade pastas, and pizzas made with whole-grain single-source flour. The hefty one-pound Wagyu meatball with marinara and fresh whipped ricotta is in a category of its own. The perfect ending? A slice of the 20-layer chocolate cake with peanut butter mascarpone. taogroup.com
LAVO
The West Hollywood culinary scene is an amalgamation of global influences, the finest California ingredients, and aesthetics that’s a feast for the eyes.
THE DEN
MIDDLE: JAKOB LAYMAN; BOTTOM, WONHOO LEE
TESSE
CAVATINA
Born and raised in Belgium and France, chef Raphael Francois is a driving force behind West Hollywood’s culinary renaissance. A veteran of Michelin-starred kitchens in Europe, he brought his lifelong love of French cuisine and great wine to West Hollywood, where he now lives and runs Tesse, Boutellier Wines, and Fanny’s, located at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
It’s a family affair at Madeo, where two generations of the Vietinas have been offering timeless coastal cuisine of Forte dei Marmi since the 1980s. The beloved classic Italian restaurant recently found a new home at 1 Hotel West Hollywood, where diners can feast on whole grilled branzino and spaghetti alla Bolognese with veal meat sauce in an elegant white-tableclothed dining room or on the tree-shaded patio. Be sure to save room for desserts, especially the house-made tiramisu and Napoleon dusted with powdered sugar. madeoristorante.com
fireplace; and a dining room that could be right at home on the French Riviera. The menu here draws inspiration from Italy, Greece, France, and Spain, with standouts including the Maine lobster spaghetti (for two), and the generous 14-ounce grilled pork chop with arugula. olivetta.la
TESSE
The Tiffany-blue exterior of Olivetta merely hints at the jewel that lies within the new spot on West Hollywood’s Restaurant Row. The 150-seat bungalow is divided into several distinct spaces, including a luxe “living room” with a velvet banquette and U-shaped bar; a sunroom with romantic bougainvillea vines and
The charcuterie board is a showstopper at Tesse, a refined French restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Raphael Francois. Diners pick from a list of housemade saucisses (small sausages), cured meat, pâtés, and terrines, which pair beautifully with wines curated by co-owner Jordan Ogron. The rest of the menu is inspired by chef Francois’s trips to L.A.’s farmers’ markets, where humble ingredients like cauliflower, beets, or broccolini are elevated to works of art under his deft touch. For a dash of luxury on your night out, order the caviar toast with Siberian Reserve sturgeon and the bucatini with silky bone marrow. tesserestaurant.com
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West Hollywood is its own ecosystem where people can be whatever they want, whenever they want. There is a kind of free spirit, and we all love it."
CATCH LA
In the heart of West Hollywood’s trendy Design District, Catch LA is a rooftop dining destination that brings the outdoors in with a retractable roof, vinecovered light fixtures, and towering plants. The lush Instagram-worthy walkway leads into the spacious dining room and outdoor patio, which
overlooks the Hollywood Hills and the iconic Pacific Design Center. The seafood-forward menu showcases oysters, shrimp, lobster, and a variety of fish from branzino to salmon. Pair the signature Tartare Trio of salmon, hamachi, and tuna with sake. Or sip a glass of bubbly as you dig into Cantonese-style lobster with scallions and garlic. catchrestaurants.com
HARRIET’S ROOFTOP Harriet’s Rooftop is a garden paradise that sits on the ninth floor of 1 Hotel West Hollywood, an eco-conscious, sustainable hotel at the base of the Hollywood Hills. The wooden deck
of the indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar is furnished with large couches, potted plants, string lights, and whitetasseled umbrellas. During the weekends, after the sun sets and the D.J. spins the latest hip-hop and R&B jams, Harriet’s takes on a decidedly clublike atmosphere, with guests dancing between sips of craft cocktails and stunning city views as the backdrop. harrietsrooftop.com
HOLLOWAY HOUSE At Holloway House, you don’t have to be a member of the exclusive SoHo House to enjoy the lifestyle of the
rich and famous. The 34-room hotel reflects midcentury-modern aesthetics of bold geometric patterns, velvet upholstery, and light fixtures that double as art. On the fifth floor, the rooftop deck is lined with daybeds and cushy chairs and features a commissioned mural by L.A. artist Jessalyn Brooks. The cozy space is ideal for guests who want to spend the day nibbling on Mediterraneanstyle appetizers and sipping organic Greek wines. sohohouse.com
L.P. ROOFTOP Toast to the sunset and watch the Southern California blue sky
The city’s rooftop bars and restaurants are a cool oasis in a bustling metropolis.SKYBAR AT MONDRIAN LOS ANGELES
become saturated with streaks of pink at L.P.’s expansive 5,500-squarefoot rooftop, one of the largest rooftop patios in Los Angeles. Situated above the popular E.P. Restaurant, the al fresco L.P. Rooftop is reminiscent of a European garden utopia serving global-inspired dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Rock out to lively D.J.-spun tunes, snack on fried calamari or mushroom tacos,
and try the refreshing Watermelon Sugar with Grey Goose vodka or a sparkling prosecco. eplosangeles.com
Gather for a relaxing poolside party at The Pool at Pendry West Hollywood, the rooftop destination at the glamorous boutique hotel along the Sunset Strip. After you take in the sweeping views
of L.A.’s cityscape, have a seat in one of the powder blue midcentury-modern chairs or baby pink loungers that wrap around the rectangular pool. Share a pitcher of Sunrise Sangria or Mezcal Paloma with grapefruit soda with your friends, and nosh on spicy kung pao cauliflower or West Coast oysters with a bright passionfruit mignonette. pendry.com
Petit Ermitage is an eclectic boutique hotel that oozes the romance of vintage Paris and bohemian chic, and registered guests have exclusive access to a private rooftop pool and deck. Open 24/7, the adults-only, top-optional saltwater pool is heated to bathtub temperature, and on certain occasions, scented with pure Damask rose essence. The roof offers 360-degree views of the Hollywood Hills and Downtown Los Angeles skyline. Order a Spirited Love Potion from the Butterfly Bar, and the Spirit Master will create a concoction with ingredients sourced from the farmers’ market. petitermitage.com
Day or night, it’s always a party at Skybar, the pool and bar at the modern, art-filled Mondrian Los Angeles. A wall of potted strawberry plants and massive picture windows flank the pool, which is an energetic hub of revelers during the day. Thursday through Sunday nights, D.J.s spin tunes while bartenders whip up guava mojitos and icy frosés. In the summer, Skybar hosts daytime pool parties and night markets, where guests can enjoy live music, food, cocktails, and panoramic views of the city. sbe.com/nightlife/ skybar/los-angeles
The heart of L.A.’s LGBTQ community, the Boulevard is home to legendary nightlife, worldclass restaurants, celebrity haunts, and inspired hotels.
Santa Monica Boulevard spans across Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean, but the thoroughfare’s main attraction is the 38-block stretch in West Hollywood. On this pedestrian-friendly slice of historic Route 66, hundreds of businesses proudly serve a diverse clientele of guests.
Reinvention and restoration are ongoing themes on the Boulevard, where several iconic eateries have recently been preserved at their
original sites. Nostalgia lovers heralded the reintroduction of Tail o’ the Pup (tailothepup.com), founded in 1946 as a hot dog stand and fountain. In 2022, it was reborn with its original red-and-white striped exterior and classic frankfurter-centric menu intact. The Formosa Cafe (theformosacafe. com), a hangout for glamorous stars of yesteryear, has also been restored to its former glory, with a significant addition: The
Asian-themed cafe now devotes newer areas of the restaurant to commemorating influential Chinese Americans of early Hollywood.
The elevated epicurean experience is a West Hollywood trademark, and the city’s culinary talent continually reinvents the concept with innovations like the multitiered Conservatory (conservatoryweho.com). The modern, natural setting features
an outdoor cafe, a full restaurant and bar, and the Society Room, a speakeasy-inspired “jewel box” for private events only. Bottega Louie (bottegalouie.com), a restaurant/gourmet market/ patisserie/cafe, lures diners with perfectly executed Italian classics and a wide selection of macarons, from salted caramel to violet cassis. And no discussion of dining and drinking in West Hollywood would be
complete without a celebrity connection: Pump Restaurant (pumprestaurant.com), owned by TV’s Vanderpump Rules’ Ken Todd and Lisa Vanderpump, brings elegant, European-style ambience and classic cuisine to the Boulevard, while the awardwinning Tom Tom (tomtombar. la) restaurant and bar, also launched by cast members of the series, is a hot spot for Hollywood insiders to relax while sipping specialty cocktails.
If West Hollywood embodies the soul of the LGBTQ rights movement, then Santa Monica Boulevard is its heart. Pride and identity receive a hero’s welcome every night at places like The Abbey Food + Bar (theabbeyweho.com). With a loyal customer base, this beloved business serves up flavorful apps and hearty entrées, a creative drink menu, and high-spirited fun. For early weekend entertainment, go for Saturday drag brunch at Micky’s West Hollywood (mickys.com), where the fiercely talented queens keep customers amused and the mimosas are always flowing. Then keep the party going at Rocco’s WeHo (roccosweho.com). Open daily until 2 a.m., this rollicking bar/restaurant/nightclub/ entertainment hub has gained a well-earned reputation for adult fun and features “creatively” themed events nightly.
On the eastern end of Santa Monica Boulevard, a thriving Russian immigrant community is an essential ingredient in West Hollywood’s cultural mélange. Stroll down this part of the Boulevard by day and inhale the delectable aromas from its Russian delis and bakeries. When night falls, grab a glass of vodka in the Red Room lounge of Bar Lubitsch (barlubitsch. com), named for Russian filmmaker Ernst Lubitsch.
LLive music and entertainment fans have long made the pilgrimage to West Hollywood’s iconic Sunset Strip, where many now-legendary singers, musicians, and comedians launched their careers. From historic clubs like The Roxy and Troubadour to newer hot spots like The Peppermint Club, the creative heart of the city has no shortage of venues hosting performances by both established and emerging talent. Visit some of the neighborhood’s most respected venues to experience what West Hollywood’s live entertainment scene is all about.
As the first venue dedicated to stand-up comedy—opened on the Sunset Strip in 1972 by comedian Sammy Shore; his wife, Mitzi; and comedy writer Rudy De Luca—The Comedy Store has been hosting top acts from the beginning, including Redd Foxx and Tim Conway. Now Dave Chappelle and Ali Wong are among the regular headliners, and their names, along with those of the club’s other notable “paid performers” through the years, are enshrined on the exterior walls of the building. thecomedystore.com
From the upholstered walls and banquettes to the midcentury-moderninspired light fixtures and furniture, the vibe at The Peppermint Club, which opened in the Design District in 2017, is decidedly swanky. The intimate live music venue is built for serious music appreciation, however, with cork ceiling tiles and coatpadded walls, and hosts both established and up-and-coming acts on a small stage that is completely integrated into the space. Craft cocktails and bottle service complete the experience.
peppermintclub.com
No stay in West Hollywood is complete without a stop to experience the iconic entertainment scene.
The number of top acts from all different genres that have played at The Roxy since this legendary music venue first opened its doors on the Sunset Strip in 1973 is nothing short of astounding, including Neil Young, the Sex Pistols, Etta James, and Prince, and many chart-topping live albums were recorded here. The Roxy is still family owned by cofounder by Lou Adler and his son, Nic. theroxy.com
Bruce was arrested for obscenity the same year the club opened; Joni Mitchell made her Los Angeles debut here in 1968; and Miles Davis recorded Live at the Troubadour at the club in 1975. The storied venue still draws crowds for shows running almost every night of the week. troubadour.com
THE VIPER ROOM
So many great moments in music and entertainment history have occurred within the walls of the Troubadour, which opened on Santa Monica Boulevard in 1957. Comedian Lenny
There’s not much time left to visit the notorious Viper Room on the Sunset Strip while it’s still intact before construction begins on a new hotel and condo development on the site. Actors Johnny Depp and Sal Jenco opened the onetime celebrity haunt in 1993, the same year River Phoenix tragically
died there, and many legendary acts have played the venue since, including Johnny Cash, Natalie Cole, and Lenny Kravitz. Fortunately, The Viper Room will still
have a home in the new building, expected to be completed in 2026, and the lobby will also display memorabilia from the club.
viperroom.com
The evolution of live entertainment in Los Angeles can be partially traced to West Hollywood’s stretch of Sunset Boulevard, known as the Sunset Strip. The area’s iconic nightclubs first appeared 100 years ago, and over the decades, A-list celebrities and assorted glitterati began flocking to its glamorous, party-centric venues. In the 1970s and ’80s, the area became ground zero for a liberated youth culture; teens and young adults swarmed the streets and high-voltage music exploded from rooms such as the nowlegendary Whiskey a Go-Go (whiskeyagogo. com) and The Roxy Theatre (theroxy. com), still going strong today. The Strip was instrumental in the standup comedy revolution of the 1980s, most notably at The Comedy Store (thecomedystore.com), where hilarious talents from Richard Pryor and Robin Williams to Iliza Shlesinger and Ali Wong have been known to test new material in front of
Old-school rock ’n’ roll meets modern, upscale luxury on this world-famous section of Sunset Boulevard.PENDRY WEST HOLLYWOOD
the Store’s iconic brick wall.
An evening drive on the Sunset Strip announces its legacy. Massive and dramatic movie billboards and brightly lit clubs, bars, and eateries dot the landscape. It’s no wonder that some of the world’s premier hotels have chosen this elevated location to land. Case in point: Pendry West Hollywood (pendry. com), the epitome of chic sophistication with its midcentury interior design and—thanks to its hilltop perch—panoramic city views. Home to two food and beverage concepts from the inimitable chef Wolfgang Puck, the hotel features amenities such as a world-class spa offering high-tech skincare treatments, a sparkling rooftop pool, and a 100-seat live music club. Head further west, and at the edge of Beverly Hills you’ll arrive at The West Hollywood EDITION (editionhotels.com) Conceived with the erudite guest in mind, this ultramodern nod to all things cosmopolitan features a signature restaurant showcasing healthy California cuisine from famed vegetable chef John Fraser, a rooftop pool surrounded by lush botanicals, a nightclub that celebrates the Strip’s musical history, and a luxury spa that fuses ancient healing rituals with state-of-the-art services.
Daytime diners know to take advantage of L.A.’s unbeatable weather. For a casual al fresco meal on the Sunset Strip, you can’t go wrong with Pink Taco (pinktaco.com), serving “tacos with attitude” since 1999. The popular spot’s distinctive bright pink exterior might signal fun and games, but the full menu of Mexican fare is seriously good, from the Smokey Bacon Guacamole to the coconut shrimp tacos. Dinner on the Strip opens a flavorful world of possibilities. LAVO Ristorante (taogroup.com) connects the Italian and California coasts with a menu of fresh pastas, wood-fired steaks, and locally sourced vegetables—all served in a cavernousyet-cozy environment marked by triple-height ceilings and a retractable roof. A rich family history lends heart and tradition to fine dining at Madeo Ristorante (madeoristorante. com), where the cuisine of Northern Italy is thoughtfully reimagined with delicate preparations of Chilean sea bass and wild king salmon and a decadent selection of risottos.
Looking to top off your fabulous dinner with a drink or two? The Strip offers bars galore, but perhaps none sexier than Skybar at Mondrian Los Angeles (sbe.com/nightlife/skybar/losangeles). Situated above the posh hotel’s rooftop pool, the atmosphere-heavy pavilion comes alive at night, thanks to some of L.A.’s top DJs and an eclectic clientele primed to party till 2 a.m.
world-famous DJ, poet, fashionista, and tastemaker, Mia Moretti landed her very first gig spinning records on the Sunset Strip. It wasn’t long before she made the world her stage. She has since collaborated with some of the most prestigious brands on the planet, and performed everywhere from Paris Fashion Week to Chelsea Clinton’s wedding. Now, she’s come full circle back to the city she says taught her everything: West Hollywood.
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You cannot walk down the Sunset Strip at night without knowing that you’re somewhere special, knowing that it’s somewhere with so much history, knowing the people who have been there."
How to spend two days in the city that has been at the forefront of the global wellness movement throughout its vibrant young life, along the way leading Southern California’s keenly healthconscious culture.
Start your wholesome day off right with a Protein Scramble at Hugo’s (hugosrestaurant. com) on Santa Monica Boulevard, one of the first health-conscious restaurants in Los Angeles when it opened in 1980, a full four years before West Hollywood itself even came into being. Next, head down the boulevard to the popular and very visitor-welcoming Brick (brick.fit) for their B|X high intensity interval training class, which uses rowers, bikes, kettlebells, dumbbells, and your own body weight to produce what they rightly call a “sweat fest.”
Rejuvenate yourself
with lunch at S.O.L (stringsoflife.com), aka Strings of Life, tucked between some of Melrose Avenue’s trendiest shops, and offering a healthy “all killer and no filler” menu reflecting the food and coffee culture of its founders’ hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Choose the SOL Chop, a tasty blend of wild rice, sweet potato, beets, carrots, chickpeas, almond crunch, herbs, and sesame soy dressing. Now it’s time to bring harmony and balance to your mind, body, and spirit, opportunely just across the street at Vie Healing (viehealing. com), where Eastern wisdom meets Western knowledge in a variety of revitalizing à la carte treatments including
acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, Reiki, and auricular acupressure.
For dinner, dig into the delicious and completely vegan Mexican fare at local favorite Gracias Madre (graciasmadre.com)— ask for a table on the gorgeous olive-tree–lined patio. Try the excellent Coliflor con Mole (grilled cauliflower with roasted garlic potato purée, corn salad, salsa chipotle, mole, sesame seeds, pepitas, and cilantro), then treat yourself to the amazing Tres Leches Cake. You can work it off by getting in a few extra steps as you explore West Hollywood on foot after dinner—it’s consistently pegged as one of California’s most walkable cities.
Begin bright and early at Earthbar (earthbar. com) on Santa Monica Boulevard, the flagship location of a brand that Southern Californians have come to trust for excellent cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and fresh grab-andgo meals. Choose the Muscle Up smoothie with Earthfusion protein, banana, almond butter, almond milk, and L-glutamine, and add a Power X boost for good measure—you’re going to need it, because your next stop is Rumble (rumbleboxinggym. com/location-signature/ west-hollywood), a boxing-based Sunset Strip workout studio with high-energy classes designed for all skill and fitness levels. The six basic punches of boxing are incorporated into a fast-paced cardio, strength training, and conditioning workout, with help from Rumble’s highly motivational instructors.
After the hard work, you could use a little love, so head over to Love Organic Cafe (loveinweho.com) on Santa Monica Boulevard. Love, which is said to have some of the best vegan sushi in town, serves up several delectable plant-based and Asian-inspired dishes, like the Love on Fire Roll. Now that you’re full of Love, indulge
GRACIAS MADRE
GRACIAS MADRE
EARTHBAR
VIE HEALING
TOP: ERIC WOLFINGER; MIDDLE, LEFT: COURTNEY COOK/UNSPLASH
A long and winding road led Kirk Myers to West Hollywood fitness fame. Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Myers overcame obesity, addiction, and heart failure at the age of 21 to become one of the most sought-after personal trainers in the country. In 2013, he began training the actor Hugh Jackman, who would bring his dog along to sessions—inspiring the name of Myers’ gym, DOGPOUND. Though it’s best known as a hot spot for celebs looking to stay in top shape, for Myers, the DOGPOUND is something greater: a community.
yourself even further with some pampering at Spa Pendry (pendry. com/west-hollywood/ wellness), the 5,000-square-foot spa at the phenomenal new Pendry West Hollywood, on the storied Sunset site of the former House of Blues. Choose the deeply restorative Muscle Relief + Vibration Therapy treatment, which unravels pain using therapeutic CBD, deep tissue massage, and vibration therapy. Keep the nurturing flowing with dinner at Pura Vita (puravitalosangeles. com), America’s first 100 percent plantbased Italian restaurant and wine bar. You deserve a little healthy decadence, so tear into the Black Magic Lasagna, with cashew ricotta, besciamella, spinach, mushroom, black truffle cream, and pesto. After dinner, have another Spa Day—this time in the form of a specialty cocktail at The Roof at the EDITION (editionhotels.com/ weho/restaurantsand-bars/the-roof). Set atop a star of the Sunset Strip’s next generation of premier hotels, The Roof offers spectacular views of Downtown Los Angeles and the Hollywood Hills surrounding West Hollywood.
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I feel like there is no better place than West Hollywood to be yourself and embody your own uniqueness. And have people who do the same and are aligned with the same values and purposes. That’s why I love West Hollywood."
THE ROOF AT THE EDITION
8490 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-424-1600
1hotels.com/west-hollywood
8401 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 323-656-1234
8400 Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90069 323-654-0750 sunsetplazahotel.com
Buzz On They have six electric vehicle charging stations (four L2, two Tesla).
The 1 Hotel West Hollywood is an ecofriendly haven and a designer’s dream—and right on the Sunset Strip, within walking distance to nightclubs, restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.
Picture Perfect Killer views of the Hollywood Hills and Downtown Los Angeles
Cali Fresh Order “brunch in bed” room service via quick text
BYOD
Pet welcome amenities and in-room dog beds
Green Is Good
One of the most energyefficient hotels in Los Angeles
hyatt.com/en-us/hotel/ california/andaz-westhollywood
The Andaz West Hollywood hotel plays host to rock-and-roll royalty, with all the glitz and glam that you’d expect on the worldfamous Sunset Strip.
Rock Rebels
In 1972, Keith Richards dropped a TV out of the Room 1015 window!
So High
The Andaz has one of the highest rooftop pools in Los Angeles.
Minibar
Complimentary minibar with snacks and nonalcoholic beverages located in the lobby lounge.
A good night’s sleep right on the Sunset Strip? Yes! Free breakfast? Absolutely! The Best Western Sunset Plaza Hotel hotel has a comfortable Mediterranean vibe, a pool, and more—at a price that won’t break the budget.
Giddy Up Room service is provided by the worldfamous Saddle Ranch Chop House right across the street.
Free Breakfast Who doesn’t love breakfast? This hotel has two separate areas for your eating pleasure before you hit the Strip.
1000 Westmount Drive
West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-657-7400 chamberlainwest hollywood.com
Crave that home away from home … with a hauntingly stylish edge? This all-suites boutique— steps from Sunset and Santa Monica Boulevards—sports a designer vibe sure to excite creative minds.
Stretch Out
Their newly renovated suites were designed by Perkins + Will.
Gas Fireplaces
If you want to heat things up, make sure you get one of their guest rooms with a gas fireplace.
More Nature
On a tree-lined street between Santa Monica Boulevard and the Sunset Strip
Bring Doggo
Pet friendly up to 25 pounds (fee of $110 plus tax applies per stay)
The Charlie Hotel
819 North Sweetzer Avenue West Hollywood, CA 90069 323-988-9000 thecharliehotel.com
Surrender to the mysterious lure of this
hidden landmark. Charlie Chaplin and Golden Era elites escaped here to rollick in private—pre-paparazzi. All your needs are met in quiet bungalows tucked among lush gardens and fountains. Need a break from the rat race? Steal this moment.
Time Warp
These bungalows were made by Charlie Chaplin, and after careful renovations still hold their charm.
Lather Up The Charlie features Gilchrist & Soames bath products.
Flower Garden Quaint and beautiful, there are amazing flowers adorning the property.
Hotel 850 SVB
850 North San Vicente Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 424-313-8650 hotel850svb.com
Feel the comfort of being at home while
having the added luxury of a hotel inspired by European residentialstyle properties.
Living Room
Features a kitchen, roaring fireplace, and relaxed seating where guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, settle into a nook to read during the day, conduct meetings in the perfect mobile office backdrop, and mix their own cocktails with selections from the honor bar.
Roof Deck
The al fresco roof deck awes with abundant seating, an outdoor fireplace, and one of the best views in the city.
Continental Breakfast Start your day in their residential-style living and breakfast room where a complimentary breakfast is served each morning.
8462 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 323-654-4600 hotelziggy.com
Connect with your inner rock star at this gorgeous boutique— right in the heart of the Sunset Strip. Party all night, snooze by the saltwater pool all day ... no judgment here.
Location, Location, Location! Stay in the heart of the legendary Sunset Strip.
Salt & Sun
Take a dip in West Hollywood’s largest
saltwater swimming pool (we hear it’s good for your skin).
Craft Cocktails
Don’t miss the amazing exclusive cocktails at Bar20.
627 North La Peer Drive West Hollywood, CA 90069 213-296-3038 lapeerhotel.com
Located in West Hollywood’s Design District, Kimpton La Peer Hotel is comfortable elegance surrounded in beauty. Walkable to all that is hot and now—your new favorite escape.
Namaste
You don’t have to be a yogi to enjoy a little Shavasana. Yoga mats are included in every guest room.
Bike WeHo Look chic zipping around town on one of Kimpton’s very own custom public bikes.
Four-Leggeds Welcome It’s saying something when you have a director of pet relations to make sure your furry friend receives the royal treatment.
733 North West Knoll Drive West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-855-8888 leparcsuites.com
Park yourself in the spacious heart of West Hollywood. Ideal for travelistas who prefer morning java on a balcony—or stay to play over a weekend or longer. After an adventurous day, rejuvenate on the tennis court. Revive in the spa. Ease into the heated pool. Relax on the rooftop sky deck.
Tennis, Anyone? Who doesn't love a rooftop tennis match? (Le Parc provides the rackets!)
1020 North San Vicente Boulevard
West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-854-1111 thelondonwesthollywood.com
Be inspired with tastemaking design and startling textures. Enjoy a splendid suite—more art than dwelling. Relax on the rooftop to soak in the sun or take a dip in the outdoor heated pool. Just ask and you’ll receive.
Steal the Show
Feel like a true celeb in the London’s private 110-seat, state-of-the-art screening room.
Biscuits & Calls to London
Free calls to London and complimentary breakfast. Huzzah!
Vivienne Westwood Penthouse
They’ve got the largest penthouse in Los Angeles: 11,000 square feet of Vivienne Westwood–inspired luxury.
8440 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 323-650-8999 mondrianlosangeles.com
Be bold and beckon your best. Step into a world of perpetual possibility. Mondrian’s enduring allure transcends trends,
inspiring a sense of invincibility and endless reinvention.
Whimsical Touches
With Benjamin NoriegaOrtiz’s design direction, the Mondrian L.A.’s interiors pay homage to the playful nature of Alice in Wonderland with its Lucite indoor swing, mushroominspired reception desk, and 30-foot mahogany front doors.
See & Be Seen
Their lounge, Skybar, is a mainstay for daytime and nighttime revelry. Check out a summer pool party or mingle in the Skybar hut.
Get Some R&R Luxuriate in down bedding, a rainfall shower, and sumptuous MALIN+GOETZ bath amenities.
900 Hammond Street West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-855-1115 montrosewesthollywood.com
All accommodations are spacious suites and feature private balconies.
Look and feel Wehoan. Walk tree-lined streets to dining, shopping, or a salon appointment. You’ll flip over the comfy conveniences and discreet urbanity. Tuck yourself (and your pooch) into a lovely studio on Hammond between Sunset Boulevard and Dicks Street.
Rap Infamy
“See people came lookin’ for me, I got ghosts, see the West Coast close and up in the Le Montrose.” —Rick Ross, “Speedin’”
360-Degree Views Enjoy some of the best views of the city from their rooftop pool and tennis courts.
8430 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-928-9000 pendry.com/west-hollywood
Pendry West Hollywood embraces the best of California modernism and glamorous life in the Hollywood Hills. This storied location lies at the heart of L.A.’s rich film, music, and cultural history—and pulses with an energy all its own. With a fresh take on modern luxury, Pendry West Hollywood elevates the Sunset Strip to a new level of sophistication.
Designer Interiors
Gorgeous designs by Martin Brudnizki inspired by the ocean and the sunset.
Fabulous Fare Wolfgang Puck restaurants on the property are sure to delight even the most discriminating tastes.
8822 Cynthia Street West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-854-1114
petitermitage.com
You’ll appreciate the whimsy of this inspired venue. View originals by Miró, de Kooning, Dalí, and more. Titillate your senses in magical gardens. Float awhile in a
saltwater pool, then cozy up to a fireplace.
Garden Goals
The rooftop garden is recognized by the National Wildlife Federation as a hummingbird and butterfly garden sanctuary.
Get Cozy, Fireside
Their rooftop fire deck hosts weekly movie screenings and morning yoga to kickstart your day.
Oh So Euro
The saltwater rooftop pool plays by European rules after 12 p.m.
Art Lovers, Unite
The hotel owner’s private art collection is exhibited throughout the halls, displaying the likes of Dalí and Miró.
8585 Santa Monica Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-734-4746 wyndhamhotels.com/ ramada/west-hollywoodcalifornia
Situated right in the heart of Los Angeles, the Ramada Plaza Hotel & Suites offers location for the best value. Get the urban cool experience you crave with many of the city’s most talked about restaurants, shops, and nightlife hot spots nearby.
24-Hour Food
Want some delicious food or drinks? Kitchen24 is their on-site restaurant
Rock Roots
Their building sits where the famed Tropicana Motel once played host to some of rock’s most unique characters.
Miami Vibes
Their building, straight out of the ’80s, has a funky pastel paint job that we love.
Car Hire
Live out your Route 66 dream—rent a slick, exotic convertible from on-site Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
1200 Alta Loma Road
West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-657-1333
sunsetmarquis.com
Join Hollywood royalty in a tropical sanctuary on nearly five acres of fauna and foliage that’s a champagne bottle’s toss from the Sunset Strip.
Recording Studio
Who wouldn’t want to stay in a hotel that offers a high-tech exclusive recording studio?
Fitness Center
Guests get access to the nearby world-famous Equinox fitness facility.
The hotel claims “more tattoos per guest than any other leading hotel.”
Food & Drink
Don’t say “escapism” like it’s a bad thing. The hotel’s restaurant, Cavatina, offers great vibes in a chill setting.
Sunset Tower Hotel
8358 Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90069 323-654-7100
sunsettowerhotel.com
Enter this leggy artdeco landmark and know you’ve arrived. The wood-paneled lobby feels like an oldschool club. Make no mistake: The future of entertainment, fashion, and design is being decided within these walls.
Architectural Delight
You don’t want to miss one of the finest art deco gems in Hollywood.
Historic Haunt
Built in 1929, this place has been home to Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and Howard Hughes—to name a few.
Drink Up, Gang
Their amazing Tower Bar is located in Bugsy Siegel’s former apartment!
The West Hollywood EDITION
9040 Sunset Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069 310-953-9899 editionhotels.com/weho
The West Hollywood EDITION is located on the corner of West Sunset Boulevard and North Doheny Drive, where West Hollywood meets Beverly Hills. Featuring 140 guest rooms and 48 suites with two penthouses.
Skyline Views
Take in breathtaking vistas of Los Angeles or the Hollywood hills from the stylish rooms and suites.
Luxury Spa
Experience the first luxury destination in Los Angeles to weave together wellness, mindfulness and beauty from within.
