Even after nearly 10 years on the scene, SLS, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills continues to draw the who’s who of L.A. And it’s no surprise, with whimsical décor by world-renowned French designer Philippe Starck and food from celebrated Spanish chef José Andrés, the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended hotel is a match made in hospitality heaven.
Let’s take a look at five things outside of the gorgeous rooms that you shouldn’t miss seeing at this glamorous Beverly Hills hot spot.
José Andrés’ signature restaurant
From melt-in-your-mouth olives to cotton candy foie gras lollipops, surprises abound at Rojo y Blanca, the Spanish tapas concept located within The Bazaar by José Andrés. A playful restaurant-within-a-restaurant, these Starck-designed spaces offer traditional Spanish flavors using molecular cooking techniques. This is the place for a celebratory dinner — whether or not you stay the night at the stylish hotel.
Expect plenty of full sensory surprises. The menu features a few staples (such as the aforementioned olives) but, otherwise, the selections change with the seasons.
For the real show, don’t miss the nitrogen caipirinha made tableside.
Altitude Pool
With a Salvador Dalí-esque decorative touch and nearly 360-degree views of Beverly Hills, Altitude Pool is worth a trip to the sixth floor. Come summertime, weekend afternoons see the 11,500-square-foot rooftop retreat transform into a low-key party complete with a live DJ. Join the fun or reserve one of the cabanas for some quiet time.
Speaking of cabanas, renting one out is the only way to access the pool if you’re not staying at the hotel. Equipped with a personal valet on hand to fetch food and drink creations from Andrés, these luxurious lounges are the way to go.
Ciel Spa
An all-white haven of tranquility awaits at the Starck-appointed Ciel Spa. Combine the soothing, ethereal aesthetic with the ultra-pampering treatments and you’ve got a stress-busting recipe for relaxation. From massages to facials, this Beverly Hills beauty spot offers the latest in skincare innovation, including the Intraceuticals Oxygen facial — a favorite of celebrities for a pre-red-carpet primp.
If you seek the ultimate indulgence, though, book Soothe Life’s Stresses, a four-hour pampering session that includes tea service, a detoxifying ritual, a massage and a relaxing soak.
Brunch
Located in Tres, the hotel’s all-day eatery, brunch is a bit of an in-the-know secret here. Perhaps locals don’t want to deal with throngs of people lining up for the all-you-can-eat feast that includes items like caviar, oysters, next-level cheese and freshly baked croissants for a reasonable price ($65).
Whatever the case, when you stop by for a meal, make sure to pair your plate with an inventive cocktail, such as the Brazilian screwdriver (made with cachaça and freshly pressed tangerines) or white sangria.
G&T Tastings
A relatively new offering, SLS Beverly Hills celebrates Spain’s favorite cocktail every Friday afternoon. Settle in to try four different spirits and learn how to make the perfect gin and tonic, including which botanicals or herbs you should mix in. It’s happy hour with a practical takeaway — after the tasting, you’ll be able to impress friends and family with your new bartending skills.