Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

That old-Hollywood look in the lobby and common areas works without feeling dated, and the pool area is quiet and discreet. It never gets chaotic or touristy. The suite is roomy and has a spacious balcony. Right on Rodeo Drive, the location is hard to beat, yet inside it still feels calm and private. The service is excellent in a natural way, with people who pay attention and make things easy without being overbearing or robotic. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and quiet, which matters most in LA. The bed was great, the bathroom was big, and everything felt polished without trying too hard. If you want a classic, comfortable, properly luxurious stay in Beverly Hills, this is it.

The rooms are a little dated, but they’re comfortable, well kept, and generously sized. I’ve stayed here several times and the quality has been consistently high. It’s a fabulous property with heritage and a great spot at the end of Rodeo Drive. I highly recommend it if you want to stay in Beverly Hills and experience the best of LA.

The biggest problem was how the hotel handled my request to extend my rate. An East Coast snowstorm canceled my flight, so I needed two more nights. The front desk said my room was available at my current rate and told me to have AMEX call to arrange it. Once AMEX joined the call, the hotel changed its answer and said they couldn’t honor that rate, quoting nearly $700 extra for the two nights. A manager said there was “nothing they could do,” even though I’d been told the room was available and the rate could be extended. The next day, as I was checking out, that same manager called to say they could now extend me at the original rate. I’d already moved elsewhere by then, to Proper Hotel Santa Monica, which was lovely. I stayed four nights at the Beverly Wilshire, and it was my worst Four Seasons experience. The service felt inattentive from arrival: I was alone with three bags, and nobody helped with the door or luggage, even though several people were at the front desk and concierge. The room was spacious but definitely dated. Poor communication and customer service fell well short of what I expect from Four Seasons. Next time I’m in Beverly Hills, I’ll stay at the Peninsula.

I’ve returned to the hotel for several meetings because of the kindness I experienced on my first visit. I’d been invited to meet a potential client when money was very tight, and even eating at the restaurant felt like a stretch. The meeting got me my first client. Afterwards, I tried to pay the valet, but he refused and said I didn’t need to because I was a VIP. He helped me in a way that made me feel good about myself when I really needed it. Everyone in the restaurant and valet is so wonderful. Thank you for many great experiences.