Families, Influencers, Couples and Work Trips—Here’s Where to Stay and Dine in LA
Whether it’s a relaxing weekend getaway with friends, a trip to the city for business or a sunny staycation, a Los Angeles getaway is always a great idea. In addition to having some of the best restaurants and rooftop bars in the country, LA is also known for its renowned museums, sandy beaches (plus the near-constant 75 degree weather) and upscale shopping. Whether you’re visiting for work or pleasure, you might be wondering about the best place to stay that suits you and your personality. These are our nine LA hotel (and dinner!) recommendations for every type of visitor. Los Angeles Tourist
For the Lowkey (But Still Hip) Traveler
Neighborhood: West Adams
Stay: Alsace LA
Dine: Mian Taste
Alsace LA, a new boutique hotel that has 48 minimalistic, modern guest rooms, a quaint swimming pool and spacious patios, is one of Tinseltown’s best kept secrets. This desert-inspired oasis is perfect for travelers who want to keep things restorative and mellow despite being in the heart of the city. If you’re craving some comfort food, head to nearby Mian Taste for authentic Chinese cuisine featuring dumplings, noodles, fried rice and more. Some must-order items include the zesty Sichuan pickles, crispy whole prawns, spicy beef soup noodles and a Tsingtao beer to wash it down.
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For the NYC Visitor
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
Stay: Santa Monica Proper
Dine: KazuNori
New Yorkers will love the chic, modern and refined style at the Santa Monica Proper. If you haven’t seen this hotel at least once on your IG feed, where have you been?! Thanks to designer Kelly Wearstler, all 271 rooms and suites boast an opulent yet bohemian-inspired aesthetic that is enhanced by a neutral color palette, grandiose headboards and spa-like bathrooms. After enjoying a Mediterranean Mojito on the rooftop at Cabra, head to downtown Santa Monica for an immersive dinner at KazuNori. This one-of-a-kind hand roll bar provides an intimate experience for guests by serving warm hand rolls (Japanese temaki) and sake in an industrial setting.
9/13
For the Family of Four
Neighborhood: Santa Monica
Stay: Loews Santa Monica
Dine: El Cholo
Loews Santa Monica is a beachfront paradise that both kiddos and adults will appreciate. Since it’s located right up the street from the pier, staying at Loews means staying within walking distance to Pacific Park, the boardwalk and Muscle Beach. From swimming in the beachside pool to riding the Ferris wheel, there is no shortage of fun to be had at this luxury hotel. Once the cravings kick in, drive to the historic El Cholo restaurant on Wilshire. This Mexican restaurant has been serving renowned margaritas, tacos and enchiladas since 1923, and its spacious, plant-filled patio is a dream.
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For the Laid-Back Couple
Neighborhood: Malibu
Stay: The Surfrider Malibu
Dine: Cholada Thai Beach Cuisine
Looking for a romantic, picturesque and beachy getaway? The Surfrider Malibu embodies the laid-back energy of Malibu with balcony hammocks, bohemian accents and surf-inspired decor. The breathtaking rooftop bar is exclusive to guests and offers you the chance to enjoy a cocktail while watching the sun drop behind the Malibu pier. Though Malibu is known for having great seafood, Cholada Thai Beach Cuisine is famous for serving traditional Thai food right across from the beach. Do a quick drive down PCH to indulge in local favorites like the pad-see-ew, drunken noodles and tom kha gai soup in an unassuming setting.
For the Eco-Friendly Traveler
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
Stay: 1 Hotel West Hollywood
Dine: Gusto Green
Located on the edge of the Sunset Strip, 1 Hotel West Hollywood is a lavish hotel that prioritizes sustainability. Despite being one of the most energy-efficient hotels in the city, this luxury retreat still offers a pristine experience that features floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of the city. If you want to explore another part of town for dinner, Gusto Green in DTLA offers innovative cuisine with dishes like spiced cauliflower, grilled eggplant pizza and fire-roasted branzino. Though there are also non-vegan options, Gusto Green’s plant-forward menu places a focus on sustainability by incorporating local, in-season ingredients.
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For the Glamorous Traveler
Neighborhood: Beverly Hills
Stay: Mr. C Beverly Hills
Dine: Wally’s Beverly Hills
By blending Italian-inspired decor and timeless glamour, Mr. C Beverly Hills offers an upscale and personalized escape. The spacious suites have everything from massive soaking tubs to private balconies, and the modern pool deck and tranquil spa allow you to live like royalty during your stay. With more than 100 kinds of wine available by the glass, Wally’s Beverly Hills is the ultimate place for a decadent dinner. Enjoy upscale dishes like the truffle Caesar salad, steak tartare and seared scallops as you dine in a room surrounded by bottles of the finest wines.
10/4
For the On-Trend Influencer
Neighborhood: Beverly Hills
Stay: The Beverly Hills Hotel
Dine: Craig’s LA
The iconic Beverly Hills Hotel is known for its pink and green exterior, palm leaf wallpaper and Instagram-worthy aesthetic. Having opened in 1912, there is a real sense of history and Hollywood glamour at the Beverly Hills Hotel—everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Kim Kardashian has stayed here. Match the star-studded vibes by making reservations at Craigs LA. Even George Clooney has been spotted at this sultry and sophisticated hot spot, and the Big Al’s Cheeseburger is a legendary menu item.
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For the One Visiting on Business
Neighborhood: West Hollywood
Mondrian LA sits right on Sunset Strip, immersing guests in a modern hotel experience that has a 30-foot wooden lobby door, a mushroom-inspired front desk and a high-tech business center. Whether you want to take some calls by the pool deck with a cocktail in hand or you plan to hit up the bar between meetings, Mondrian makes it easy to work hard and play hard. From brunch to dinner, nearby Norah is a luxe lounge and eatery that serves seasonal cocktails and tasty classics like cast iron cornbread, hamachi crudo and wood-fired pizza.
8/11
For the One Who Wants to Be in the Heart of LA
Neighborhood: Fairfax District
Stay: Short Stories Hotel
Dine: Nic’s on Beverly
Short Stories is a brand new hotel that’s within walking distance of some of the best shopping and dining at The Grove. The rooms include everything from a high-end minibar with top-shelf bottles to retro LA-inspired decor, allowing you to live the Hollywood dream during your stay. Nowhere does vegan brunch quite like Nic’s on Beverly, so stay local and stop by for a beloved strawberry-forward frosé. Every item on the menu is totally plant-based, and you can’t go wrong with the balsamic ricotta pizza or falafel burger.
Los Angeles Tourist
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
