Restored to its former Old Hollywood glory, the Georgian has quickly become one of Santa Monica’s most interesting boutique hotels. The turquoise-and-gold Art Deco stunner sits right on Ocean Avenue with bellhops in cheery pastel blue uniforms out front—and a slightly nightmarish valet parking situation that comes with being right off the area’s main tourist drag. Since reopening in April 2023, the Georgian has quickly become a favorite among stylish out-of-towners. While the hotel offers outstanding dining options, views of the Pacific and convenient access to Metro’s E Line, even whimsical design flourishes can’t hide the aching bones of this historic hotel, which first opened its doors in 1933. During my stay in the First Lady Suite, the Georgian’s ritziest penthouse option, a small pool of water collected at my feet while I showered, likely due to equally historic plumbing.
If you can overlook these minor quirks, however, the Georgian is a great (and great-looking) place to book, particularly for travelers spending most of their time on the Westside or along the E Line. Spring water and sparkling wine upon check-in, a decent array of R+Co toiletries and a pair of striking blue knit bathrobes in all 84 guestrooms: These finer details add a degree of luxury to your stay, even if the beautifully redesigned lobby feels like it’s the size of a crackerbox and the “library” is actually just a tiny room off the side with scant seating and a small collection curated by local bookstore Arcana. From top to bottom, new owner BLVD Hospitality has refurbished every inch of the hotel, including the basement, which once held a speakeasy allegedly frequented by Prohibition-era mobsters Al Capone and Bugsy Siegel.
Today, the hotel’s subterranean level is home to the Georgian Room, a destination-worthy Italian steakhouse with sultry red walls and leather booths inspired by the original interiors. An aura of speakeasy-style exclusivity permeates regular dinner service—no photography is allowed, and you’ll almost certainly need a reservation to get in. Highlights include the seasonal doppio ravioli and baked Alaska. On Sundays, the restaurant also serves a more casual, red sauce Italian supper. Upstairs, the terrace and lobby host Sirena, a more straightforward, coastal Italian menu. While opening chef David Almany has since left the property (previously of Nancy Silverton’s Mozza Group and Singapore’s well-regarded Angeleno), the standout desserts are still overseen by critically acclaimed local pastry chef Thessa Diadem.
Compared to other iconic L.A. hotels like Chateau Marmont, the Sunset Tower and the Beverly Hills Hotel, the Georgian offers far, far better dining options. What it lacks in size and well-established reputation, it makes up for in the service and style departments. And of course, you can’t beat those ocean views.
Neighborhood
Right in the heart of downtown Santa Monica. Read: In the summers, tourist foot (and car) traffic along Ocean Avenue is almost impenetrable. If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, your best bet is to walk the 20 minutes over to Main Street, where more locals tend to congregate, or take the E Line elsewhere.
Nearby
Santa Monica Pier: You can’t miss the focal point of Santa Monica Beach, which is visible from several of the hotel rooms’ windows. There’s the iconic Ferris wheel, a roller coaster and other rides within Pacific Park, plus Snackville, a series of amusement park food concepts by the late chef James Kent. You’ll also find fairground games and plenty of shops and eateries scattered along the pier.
Third Street Promenade: This four-block pedestrianized stretch of downtown Santa Monica isn’t as busy or cool as it used to be, but it’s still a decent place to get some shopping done. The nearby Santa Monica Place includes some luxury retail options like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Hugo Boss. The farmers’ market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings is also a great place to people-watch and pick up high-quality ingredients and fresh flowers.
Bergamot Station: Located about a 20-minute Metro ride away from the Georgian, this former train station is now home to over two dozen contemporary and fine art galleries, plus Le Great Outdoor, a casual, straightforward grill and café. If you’re here in the afternoon, grab a drink and some light bites at the critically acclaimed Birdie G’s, located just outside Bergamot Station—it’s one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles.
Time Out tip
Take advantage of the hotel’s proximity to the E Line. Much of Downtown Los Angeles, including the Arts District and Little Tokyo, is a single train ride away, as is Culver City’s charming downtown area, home to Sony Pictures, trendy outdoor mall Platform and the Museum of Jurassic Technology.