The Langham Huntington, Pasadena, Photo Credit: Langham Hotels and Resorts
Opened in 1907, Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Langham Huntington, Pasadena has been a stalwart of luxury hospitality in greater Los Angeles. And yes, it was the original pink hotel, preceding Five-Star The Beverly Hills Hotel by a few years.
From its sprawling natural beauty, located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, to its relaxing spa and fine-dining steakhouse, The Royce, The Langham Huntington, Pasadena is certainly the City of Roses’ grand dame with many facets to fulfill your fancy.
Here are five of the things we love most about the stately hotel.
High tea at the Lobby Lounge
The Langham hotel brand has hosted high teas for more than 150 years — and it shows. The tower of treats at this polished property is nearly flawless. The tea sandwiches are perfectly shaped, and bite-sized desserts, such as Earl Grey tiramisu or strawberry cream puffs, are ornate without being unapproachable (you know the type: too precious to touch).
For the scones, a generous portion of Devonshire cream — the best part of tea service — is served.
Live piano music and a sunlight-drenched lounge flush with fresh flowers round out the mood.
And let’s not forget about the actual tea. More than 20 high-quality flavors are available, including four blends that are exclusive to Langham hotels.
Speaking of bespoke, you’ll enjoy your afternoon soiree on tailor-made “Langham Rose” Wedgwood tea ware.
Chuan Spa, Photo Credit: Langham Hotels and Resorts
Chuan Spa
With 12 treatment rooms and 11,000 square feet of space, Chuan Spa is an expansive sanctuary of wellness based on traditional Chinese medicine. Signature treatments include the Chuan Balancing Massage, which uses acupressure, and one of its newest services, the Vitality Facial, which features the Immunocologie skincare line.
Allow enough time pre- or post-treatment to relax in the spa’s beautiful Dream and Contemplation rooms.
The Langham Club Lounge
When it comes to choosing a room here, an option on the seventh or eighth floor is definitely worth the splurge because you’ll have exclusive access to the Club Lounge on the eighth floor.
With five different gourmet food-and-drink services a day, it’s really a treat to always have something on offer, be it Canadian bacon, champagne or cookies.
On top of the food choices, the service is impeccable. If what you crave isn’t on the buffet, someone will help you find it.
Other perks of the club include concierge services, a computer with Wi-Fi, a selection of newspapers and magazines, and three garments pressed per day.
The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse, Photo Credit: Langham Hotels and Resorts
The Royce Wood-Fired Steakhouse
Helmed by chef Perry Pollaci, the Royce is impressive whether you’re a grilled-meat lover or not. The produce is seasonal and local, with some of it being sourced from the hotel’s own organic garden. Steaks, be them USDA prime cuts or Wagyu beef, are prepared over an Aztec wood-fired grill.
After you put your knife down, don’t miss a stop at the glass-enclosed wine rooms — home to one of L.A.’s largest restaurant wine collections.
Hot tip: For an incredibly memorable dining experience, reserve the Chef’s Table, where you’ll get glimpses into the kitchen and tableside preparations. Enjoy a seven-course tasting menu tailored to your tastes and dietary needs by chef Pollaci himself. Wine pairings are also available.
The grounds and views
Whether taking in the vistas of the San Gabriel Mountains from your room or having a stroll through the azalea-filled Japanese garden, the Langham Huntington, Pasadena’s surrounding natural beauty is on par with its stunning architecture.
Because of the photogenic quality of the hotel’s 23 acres, it’s especially popular for weddings. If you’re there on a weekend, expect to see several bridal parties waltz through the lobby on their way to one of the ornate ballrooms.
