Long synonymous with luxury, the L.A. outpost of the Plaza Hotel lives up to its reputation with old-school luxuries like gilded architecture, excellent service (think shoe shines, tour guides and limos), and opulent amenities.
The country-club adjacent Beverly Hills Plaza is pure unabashed luxury: orchids, candles and a massive chandelier grace the expansive lobby, and suites are outfitted with celeb-worthy accommodations like full kitchens, jet tubs and private balconies. Inside and out, the decor is old school extra; a lush decorative stream, planted with ferns and flowers and dotted with koi fish, winds its way through the property, and neoclassical friezes frame the poolside terrace. After a long day strolling Rodeo Drive, sip a cocktail in a private poolside cabana, unwind with a bubble bath or simply slip on your robe and zone out in front of your high-def TV. If you’re really into self care, go all out and book an appointment at the hotel’s in-house spa and salon—Le Plaza Spa Medi offers ultra relaxing scrubs, facials, massages and more in a streamlined, upscale setting. Ambitious travelers can take advantage of the hotel’s fitness and business centers, and anyone with an appetite would do well to stop in at Le Petit Cafe, where you’ll find an array of deftly prepared New American cuisine.
Location: The Plaza sits on the cusp of Beverly Hills and Westwood; while the immediate neighborhood isn’t incredibly walkable—the vibe is tony apartments, two-story homes, and boutique office buildings—traveling a short distance on Wilshire Boulevard will land you in Westwood’s mellow university ‘hood to the west, and BH’s famed upscale shopping and dining to the east.
Nearby:
Los Angeles County Museum of Art: LACMA’s recently renovated exterior means the landmark museum’s facade finally matches the prestige of its interior collections. An astounding permanent collection is rounded out by tea gardens, a movie theater, gift shops and a rotating calendar of events.
Bar Bouchon: If the waitlist at Bouchon is prohibitively long, make like a local and head upstairs. There, you’ll find cocktails and classic French small plates—think rabbit rillettes and moules au Safran—in an intimate, retro-but- sleek setting.
Craig’s: Settle into a pine green leather booth at this celeb-approved L.A. steakhouse, which pairs old school vibes with playful and upscale takes on American classics like honey truffle fried chicken and a killer meatloaf.
Espresso Profeta: Espresso Profeta’s strong brews and ivy-laced courtyard setting make it the perfect pit stop between museum hopping and dinner. The cinnamon- and orange-spiked Caffe Nico is a local favorite.
Good for: If you’re traveling for work in one of West L.A. or Century City’s high rises, the Plaza is the ultimate spot to unwind after a day of meetings. The hotel’s opulence might feel a little stuffy for families, but if your children happen to enjoy the finer things, suites are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate large groups, and the pool is a great place for a lazy afternoon outing. Couples will love the hotel’s romantic atmosphere and indulgent spa menu.
Amenities: Pool, hot tub, room service, minibar, restaurant, bar, gym, laundry service, concierge, spa
Time Out tip: At the spa, ask for the hotel’s signature Lomi Lomi massage. The ancient Hawaiian Lomi technique will melt away even the most stressful day, relaxing your muscles and your spirit for full-body rejuvenation.