Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills – Hotel Review

Soaring ceilings, striking artworks and acres of gleaming marble announce this hotel’s high-end intentions the moment you step inside the lobby. A delicate palette of pale blues and neutrals complements gold and glossy wood accents in the rooms, while junior corner suites feature wraparound balconies with views across the city. Head to the onsite Jean-Georges restaurant, where legendary French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s lobster pasta has the reputation for making diners weep with joy.

The location

The hotel is located on the intersection of Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards, in the heart of iconic Beverly Hills. Rodeo Drive and its upmarket boutiques, galleries and restaurants are a short walk away. For a proper coffee, Australian chain Bluestone Lane is nearby. LAX airport can be reached in 30 minutes depending on the notorious LA traffic.

The rooms

Entry-level rooms are spacious and elegant in a palette of pale blues and neutrals with gold and glossy wood accents, king-sized beds, double sinks, reading nooks and balcony with lounge chairs, plus Salvatore Ferregamo toiletries. Lights, blinds and curtains are controlled by iPad, through which you can also order room service. Upgrade to a suite to enjoy a separate living area, half-size Diptyque products and Dyson hairdryer. Junior corner suites have wraparound balconies which take in the leafy Beverly Hills on one side and gaze across to twinkling Downtown on the other.

Food and drink

With legendary French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichte at the helm, the food is delicious, fresh and flavour-packed. The Jean-Georges restaurant is exemplary, while the Rooftop by JG is one of the hippest hangouts in town with 270-degree views across LA, from the ocean at Santa Monica in the distance to the Hollywood sign and Griffith Observatory. The Cobb salad has a light Asian twist (add steak, chicken or shrimp). The lobster burger with yuzu pickles is rightfully legendary. Book ahead for brunch. Bonus points for excellent people-watching potential at both venues.

For business travellers

There are two computers – PC and Mac – plus printer/scanner in a small business centre. Light and airy boardrooms and conference spaces are also available. There are built-in USB ports at multiple locations in-room and suites have stylish desks.

For wellness travellers

The functional gym can be accessed 24 hours. Heated rooftop saltwater pool opens at 8am and is large enough to do laps, plus there’s weekday yoga. The luxe La Prairie spa has six treatment rooms with heated beds and soothing music. The signature facial is a godsend for parched skin after the long flight from Australia. A Soul Cycle studio is a short stroll.

The fab factor

Guest liaison staff are available by text which makes everything effortless, from booking your free garment press to organising late checkouts.

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