Frommer's Review
Behind the famous facade (remember the Eagles' Hotel California album?) lies this star-studded haven where legends were, and still are, made: The "Pink Palace" was center stage for both deal- and star-making in Hollywood's golden days. Today stars and industry hotshots or, as one member of the staff joked, "all the current rulers of the universe," can still be found lounging around the Olympic-size pool (into which Katharine Hepburn once dove fully clothed) or digging into Dutch apple pancakes in the iconic Polo Lounge, where Hunter S. Thompson kicked off his adventure to Las Vegas. I had the pleasure of staying here recently and was so impressed with the entire experience that the Beverly Hills Hotel has become my new favorite among every other hotel in Los Angeles. It is a truly world-class property.
Following a $100-million restoration a few years back, the hotel's grand lobby and impeccably landscaped grounds retain their over-the-top glory, while the lavish guest rooms -- each uniquely decorated in a subdued palate of pinks, greens, apricots, and yellows -- boast every state-of-the-art luxury, including extra-large bathrooms with double Grecian marble sinks and TVs. The management has assembled a refreshingly unpretentious, service-oriented staff who seem genuinely bent on guest comfort, and the best original touches have been retained, like butler service at the touch of a button. Many rooms feature private patios, Jacuzzi tubs, kitchens, fireplaces, and/or dining rooms. The 21 bungalows are more luxurious than ever, and the lush, tropical-like grounds are brimming with exotic trees and flowers that emit divine aromas. Even the outdoor pathways are carpeted, to keep noise to a minimum. Adding one more layer of luxury to the hotel, the Beverly Hills Hotel Spa by La Prairie offers European and Asian-influenced massage and expert facials.
If you feel like drinking like one of the Hollywood elite, stop by Bar NINETEEN12. Named in honor of the year the hotel first opened, the bar has an inside area with a living-room feel and a lighted terrace. Drink prices can run pretty high here. Tableside bottle service can cost anywhere from $475 to $23,000. But, you never know who might be there talking business over drinks. Tip: For a more affordable time, try the inexpensive, informal, and groovily retro-chic Fountain Coffee Shop, open daily 7am to 7pm. Either place is a great excuse to visit the hotel.
Facilities: 3 restaurants; 2 bars; 2 lounges; Olympic-size outdoor heated pool; 2 outdoor tennis courts (lit for night play); fitness center; full spa services; whirlpool; concierge; car-rental desk; courtesy limo; business center w/computers; 24-hr. room service; in-room or poolside massage; babysitting; laundry service; dry cleaning; video rentals
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
