Once a sleepy California enclave, at the turn of the 20th Century, Hollywood became the most sought-after destination for aspiring film studios in pursuit of year-round sunshine. With a new facelift (so apropos), it’s again fascinating travelers who frolic here to immerse themselves in the glamour of the silver screen, and the allure of its heyday.
STAY
Built in 1963, The Andaz West Hollywood was the first high-rise hotel on the Sunset Strip — a landmark in the late ‘60s and ‘70s for its rockin’ parties hosted by celebrities the likes of The Rolling Stones, The Doors and Led Zeppelin. It’s home to the highest rooftop pool in the city, with private cabanas and panoramic views that span from the Pacific Ocean to the Hollywood Hills.
DINE
Aside from being a place to “see and be seen”, BOA is an award-winning steakhouse, serving a wide selection of prime meats, including the signature 40-day dry-aged New York Strip and A5 Japanese Wagyu. The seafood menu is as equally mouthwatering and you’ll find plenty of options from the raw bar. I’d like to add a disclaimer: I don’t take responsibility for anyone acquiring an addiction to the Truffle Mashed Potatoes or the decadent Mac & Cheese on offer.
NIGHTCAP
A stylish restaurant with expertly prepared traditional Asian fare, ROKU offers a stunning patio inspired by a contemporary Japanese garden, featuring a retractable glass roof for open-air dining. It’s impressive bar houses an exclusive sake collection as well as one of the largest Japanese whiskey collections in the country. Mixologists are also on hand to craft inventive cocktails, like the Chichime: tequila blanco, red jalapeño, yellow chartreuse, agave, chichime spice…and the Oscar goes to…yup, you guessed it.
