THE WHAT

First, for those who are unfamiliar, Sofitel is the only French luxury hotel brand with a presence on five continents with 120 addresses, in almost 40 countries that offers a genuine experience of the French “art de vivre.” You’ll definitely find that at the brand’s Los Angeles property in spades thanks to its particular blend of Hollywood hip and French luxury.

THE WHERE

The hotel has some seriously prime real estate. Located at the intersection of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, Sofitel is located near some of the best and trendiest restaurants in L.A., including The Nice Guy, Verlaine, Rosaline, Matsuhisa and E.P./LP. It’s also a stone’s throw about from Melrose Place and literally across the street from the Beverly Center (seriously, you can even see it from some of the north-facing rooms).

THE ROOMS

THE SPA (+ SALON + FITNESS CENTER)

We know it’s cheesy, but it’s true—there’s a lot here for your mind, body and spirit.  First, the fitness center: it’s awesome and actually huge for a hotel gym, which tons of cardio, weight training and everything in between. Plus, go at the right time, and you’ll have the whole place to yourself. And though it isn’t in the same vicinity, yes, to answer that burning question, the property does have a pool. Moving on, Le Salon at Sofitel is a great place to get your ‘do done for a night out in Tinseltown, featuring planters with fresh lavender, and splashes of modern furniture and European/French statement pieces. This boutique salon is comprised of three chic stylist stations, a drying station, makeup application area, and a charming al fresco “bistro” style patio garden. Le Salon meshes well with the hotel’s contemporary French profile: the space exudes a cozy, feel framed within high-end sophistication akin to that of its spa, a charming and intimate relaxation spot that offers massages, facials and body treatments using specialty beauty products from Decleor and Carita. There’s also a hammam for a much-needed indulgence. This fall make sure to check out a special on offer, that includes a massage and a blowout: $200 will buy you a 60-minute So Relaxing Massage and a wash and blowout at Le Salon. Magnifique!

THE RESTAURANTS

There are a plethora of options here, but our favorite is the magical Le Jardin, the floral, secret garden-inspired patio area of the hotel’s signature eatery, Estérel. The former takes you to the south of France; designed as a French garden patio, is an extension of Esterel Restaurant’s indoor space and is home to many breathtaking features for an alfresco afternoon and evening dining including contemporary lighting and fountains, a Provencal inspired herb garden, colorful seating and an extensive driftwood bar and three “living walls” of plants as the backdrop. In a corner is a romantic table for two framed by a flowered trellis, surrounded by greenery—the perfect spot for a romantic date night. Next to the patio, hidden in the back, there’s the Aviary, which includes an outdoor space with a private bar, a wall full of mirrors and bird cages overhead.

An updated cocktail menu focuses on rum and whisky libations, served alongside a menu of small plates that combines California’s health conscious needs and the Mediterranean’s fresh and seasonal ingredients. FYI: this place gets rowdy on weekend nights with bass-a-thumping, but it won’t bother guests who decide to turn in early at all.

THE ART

Some of the coolest features of the Sofitel lie in its lobby art. There’s “Knot No. 11” by sculptor Damon Hyldreth, a piece specifically commissioned by the hotel to represent the Gordion Knot, a symbol of swift and decisive decision making. There’s also the awesome and Instagram-worthy Butterfly Coin Chair, made of 1,480 American half dollars, which is a stone’s throw away from the photo booth that you may (or may not, given the day) be lucky enough to use.

THE VERDICT

A tres chic dose of French sophistication in sunny Los Angeles.

Sofitel Los Angeles is located at 8555 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048

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