London West Hollywood

Description:

• This all-suites hotel reopened in 2008 (it used to be the Bel Age), and now combines English charm with California sensibility: The decor is smart and sexy, with lots of marble and glamour in the lobby, clean lines in all 200 suites, and a rooftop pool with sweeping views of all of Los Angeles. It's fitting for the off-the-Strip location, literally walking distance from famed clubs like the Viper Room and Key Club. Just so you don't forget it's the London, English touches include an English bulldog who sits in the lobby on the weekends and free calls to London, England. The spacious suites are well-designed with sleek furniture (embossed leather upholstery, bleached oak finishes, hand-cut mosaic tiles) and all have some sort of balcony -- second-floor suites have full-on patios. The rooftop pool area is reminiscent of an English garden with topiaries and AstroTurf, plus a lounge area for snacks or lunch; there's also an outdoor workout and yoga area. The restaurant, from famed London and "Hell's Kitchen" chef Gordon Ramsay, is a standout for lunch or dinner, but we're partial to the bottomless Champagne weekend brunch.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010