Review: 1 Hotel West Hollywood
A luxury hotel with a sustainable focus
AMENITIES
How nature is infused into the aesthetic of the hotel
Fully electric Audi e-tron house car
A sustainable focus- the bed linen is sustainable and the drinking glasses are made from recycled wine bottles.
THE REVIEW
Background
Opened in 2019, the hotel has a big focus on sustainability and is the LEED for existing buildings v4 Silver Certified. Wellness is also a big part of the ethos and there is a spa with healthy dishes and drinks. The 1 Hotel West Hollywood takes inspiration from the Southern California sunshine, the sea, and the land. It’s a place to rest, refuel, and collaborate.
Where Is It?
At the base of the Hollywood Hills, its location gives views of downtown LA to Santa Monica. And, it’s 15 miles from LAX Airport (about a 35-minute car ride with minimal traffic).
What’s It Like?
It’s very much a California hotel, inspired by sand, surf, and contemporary style. Nature is the foundation of the hotel, like other 1 Hotels. When walking in, the first thing you’ll notice is the reception desk made out of fallen California trees, and other plant life in the lobby. You’ll also notice creatives working in Juniper Lounge. The hotel is pet friendly, and you will also find a sense of community with sustainable gatherings, and a Goodthings Shop.
The reception desk made from fallen California trees | Photo Credit: James Baigrie
Rooms
The Skyline King with 368 square feet (34 square meter) is mesmerizing because of its skyline views, and floor to ceiling windows. Perfect for two people, the first thing you notice is the seating area when walking in. The floor to ceiling windows allows for natural light to flood in. But if you need to turn off the natural light then the blackout shades are the best fit. Reclaimed wood contrasted with earthen walls, and plant life make for a cozy modern room.
The Skyline King Room | Photo Credit: James Baigrie
The bathroom comes with a robe, slippers, and cotton-knit towel made with marble and natural wood. Organic skincare from Bamford fills the bathroom.
The King bed is made with 100% organic cotton sheets, a pillow-top mattress with organic bedding, and trust us, you’ll sleep like a baby. There’s also a 50-inch HD TV, Bluetooth speakers, a minibar with local products, a Nespresso machine, safe, and 24-hour in room dining.
Food and Drink
1 Kitchen | Photo Credit: 1 Hotel West Hollywood
Breakfast is served from 7am to 11am daily in 1 Kitchen. The breakfast menu is concise and has something for everyone. Healthy options range from a Bowl of Seasonal and Local Fruits ($17), to Avocado Toast on 7 grain bread ($20 + $4 with a Sunny Egg). There are bakery items from a Housemade Gluten-Free Muffin ($7), Bagels with cream cheese ($7), toast, and croissants. The Breakfast Burrito with pepperjack cheese, potatoes, peppers, onions, tomatillo salsa, creama and a meat choice hits the right spot when you want to be filled ($23 + extra for the meat choice).
Juniper Lounge and Garden is an oasis in the center of vibrant LA. Located in the lobby and its garden outside is inviting at night as its lit up. The menu is curated by Chef Ginger Pierce, who incorporates local and seasonal produce. She’s committed to sustainable hospitality, which falls in line with the hotel’s commitment to eco-friendly living.
The menu is vast but not overwhelming, so buckle up. For “dry January,” a mocktail menu was created, where drinks still carry the flavors and essence of spirits, without the fermentation. If you’re a fan of 007 and the Vesper Martini, then the 007’s Choice ($21) is a must try. Made of botanist gin, hanson lemon vodka, lillet blanc, and italicus bergamott, it’s a twist to the Vesper Martini.
You must start with a starter. The Miso Baba Ghanouj ($13) made with chili crunch and Thai basil pairs nicely with the Market Crudité & House Pickles ($18). You can of course pair the spread with freshly made bread options like Pumpernickel Flatbread ($12) or House-made Focaccia ($12), but we found the fresh veggies really hit the spot. Another absolute starter item that you must try is the Stuffed California Dates ($16) wrapped with locally smoked bacon and laura chenel goat cheese. It’s like candy that you can’t stop eating.
For Mains we opted for the While Fried Red Snapper ($45) that comes with fresh herbs, lime, and chili crunch. And, the Bone Marrow Burger ($32) that comes on a sesame potate roll, and served with pickled onion and marinated tomato. It’s also served with sweet potato wedges. For dessert, the sorbet hit the spot. Not too heavy, it’s the best option when the meal has been comprehensive and filling.
We’ve dined a quite a few LA luxury restaurants and Juniper by far is the best option for healthy and tasty dinners.
Other onsite eateries are Harriet’s Rooftop that gives breathtaking views of Los Angeles, the Pool Lounge that open in the warmer months, and serves light fare and drinks, and the Lobby Farmstand where visitors can munch on fresh fruits, nuts, granola, and more.
Leisure
The pool is located on the roof, which gives views of the city. Open from 8am to sunset the lounge chairs are only for hotel guests and are subject to availability. The food and beverage services has ended for the season, which also goes for the cabana, which has to be rented.
The Pool | Photo Credit: James Baigrie
The Cabana | Photo Credit: Eric Laignel
On the second floor is the Field House Gym. 24/7, you’ll find weight and cardio equipment. Natural light floods in, making working out a sunny experience. Personal training and other activities like group running are available at the hotel. Reception and a large board by one of the elevators list all the fitness activities for the month.
Verdict
Best For rooftop views of Los Angeles
Don’t Miss Juniper Lounge and Garden
Price a midweek stay in the Skyline King room the beginning of February is $583 (non-refundable) or $674 (flexible cancellation).
Contact 8490 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069
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