Frommer's Review
The Peninsula is one of L.A.'s three finest hotels (a group that includes the Hotel Bel-Air and the Beverly Hills Hotel). This stellar hotel -- like its sister Peninsula properties in exotic locales like Hong Kong, Beijing, and Bangkok -- has risen above the rest by making ultraservice its hallmark. Set at Beverly Hills's main crossroads, this gardenlike oasis is impeccable in every respect (although laid-back types will surely consider it too formal).
The refined air begins the moment you enter the marbled lobby and continues through the gardenlike grounds. Special features in the large, lavish, European-style guest rooms include controls for everything -- lighting, climate, DO NOT DISTURB sign -- as well as the luxurious Frette-made bed, an extra-large work desk, an oversize marble bathroom with soaking tub and separate shower, and round-the-clock personal valets; the 16 private villa suites, ensconced within lush gardens, also boast gas fireplaces, kitchens, CD players, and individual security systems. Sure, rooms are ultra-expensive, but a unique 24-hour check-in/checkout policy -- which allows you to keep your room for a full 24 hours, no matter what time you check in -- means you get your money's worth.
Belvedere is L.A.'s premier hotel dining room; breakfast is a tradition among CAA agents and their thespian clients (insiders order the nowhere-on-the-menu banana-stuffed brioche French toast), and Sunday brunch is the best in town. The mahogany-paneled bar is also popular among the power suits, while the English Garden-style Living Room pours L.A.'s best high tea. The newly renovated Peninsula Spa is a day-spa worthy of a visit even if you don't stay at the hotel.
Facilities: Restaurant; bar; rooftop heated lap pool and Jacuzzi; state-of-the-art fitness center; terrific full-service spa; concierge; courtesy Lexus within 5-mile radius; business center; salon; 24-hr. room service; in-room massage; laundry service; dry cleaning; 24-hr. check-in/checkout
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.
