Written by Kisha King
The London West Hollywood in Beverly Hills transcends the conventional notion of a hotel stay; it offers a lavish retreat, delivering an unrivaled experience in one of Los Angeles' most vibrant locales, the Sunset Strip. Located mere steps from the legendary Whiskey A Go Go and the Rocky Theater, it remains discreetly nestled, providing an oasis of privacy. This beacon of luxury, style, and sophistication uniquely blends British understated elegance with Hollywood glamour, making it a preferred destination for celebrities, business travelers, and tourists in search of an extraordinary experience.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by two stunning original cast bronze gates and a picturesque cobblestone path. These grand iron gates, crafted by LA artist Charles Fine, draw inspiration from the intricate lead tracery in stained glass windows of Gothic churches throughout England. Entering the lobby, one is greeted by a warmly lit, spacious area adorned with golden accents, plush velvet sofas, a magnificent marble fireplace, and an elegant clock that frames the room. This space, designed by renowned Irish designer David Collins, reflects his passion for jewelry through exquisitely designed chandeliers, mirrors, and a 1920s Cartier-inspired clock. The opulent atmosphere evokes old Hollywood glamour, seamlessly infused with British elegance, making the hotel truly exceptional.
One of the standout features of The London is its exceptional dining options. The hotel’s main restaurant, Boxwood, celebrates contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Led by an acclaimed culinary team, Boxwood offers an innovative and delightful dining experience. Executive Chef Anthony Keen shared insights into his menu favorites and culinary philosophy. Keen, who started his career cooking through college and later joined the Ritz Carlton group, has worked with esteemed chefs like Gordon Ramsay. His menu reflects the beauty and diversity of Los Angeles, with influences ranging from Mexico to Korea and Britain.
The eclectic menu evolves with the seasons, featuring dishes like English toffee pudding, spicy tuna rolls, and delicious risottos. Keen emphasized the collaborative effort behind the menu’s evolution, stating, “Being creative is a funny thing; if you wait for that inspiration to come to you, it never will.” He highlighted the Sunday pot roast as a must-try, offering a relaxing meal without breaking the bank, and praised his spinach salad with avocado and mango. Keen’s roasted salmon, featuring his favorite farro, is another standout dish. When asked about his desired takeaway for guests, he said, “A good conversation with whoever you came with.” He believes that while food should be the focus, the company and conversation are equally important.
A defining characteristic of The London West Hollywood is its commitment to exceptional service, delivered with a laid-back, approachable manner that makes guests feel at home. The hotel staff’s professionalism, attentiveness, and dedication are impeccable. From the valet to the front desk, every interaction is marked by warm hospitality and meticulous attention to detail.
The London West Hollywood offers a wide range of amenities and services that set it apart from competitors. The Kensington Ballroom, the hotel’s largest event space, accommodates up to 300 guests and features elegant décor and state-of-the-art technology. The hotel also boasts a luxurious, acoustically sound screening room for up to 110 guests and 32 press junket suites equipped with top-of-the-line sound and video systems, making it a hot spot for production companies and A-list celebrities seeking discretion.
The rooftop pool, surrounded by cabanas and palm-lined lounge chairs, is a haven of relaxation, offering stunning city views and a serene environment for unwinding. Poolside service allows guests to enjoy food and drinks without leaving their sunbed. In time for the summer season, The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills has unveiled ‘Legend and LVE at The London WeHo Rooftop’—an exquisite new dining experience in collaboration with LVE Wines by John Legend. Launched on Thursday, May 30, the hotel’s cherished poolside rooftop has been transformed into a sophisticated restaurant, offering both à la carte and prix-fixe dinner menus daily. From 5:30 to 10:00 pm each evening, both hotel guests and locals are invited to indulge in Los Angeles' newest al fresco dining experience, whether in the privacy of a cabana or at a table with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills and the city skyline. This marks the first instance of the modern luxury hotel hosting a seasonal poolside rooftop dining experience accessible to the public.
Chef Keene created a John Legend Selections three-course menu inspired by the musician’s most favorable dishes. “We are always seeking ways to deliver fun experiences to our guests and locals and are excited to bring this new dining experience to life,” Chef Keene proudly states. The new dining experience is scheduled to run through Labor Day and is well worth visiting the hotel web site for a booking.
Combining timeless elegance with modern luxury, The London West Hollywood offers a sanctuary for travelers seeking the best of Los Angeles. From its beautifully designed suites and world-class dining to its exceptional amenities and impeccable service, The London West Hollywood stands as a testament to the art of hospitality. Whether visiting for a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a special celebration, guests are sure to leave with lasting memories of their stay at this iconic establishment.-