Los Angeles often beckons visitors to the city for work conferences and meetings. Learn how to mix business and pleasure with these recommendations from Sarah Dandashy, concierge at The London West Hollywood.
Cecconi’s
“Los Angeles is a great city to do business in, because you can conduct business meetings nearly anywhere,” Dandashy says. “Breakfast at Cecconi’s is a delicious way to kick off the day. … This is a perfect location for a breakfast meeting; not too stuffy, but elegant. And the food is amazing—a delicious modern Italian menu. I would suggest asking for a patio seat to enjoy our wonderful weather.” A couple of standout breakfast dishes are the ricotta hotcakes with blueberry compote, and the Brussels sprouts, onion and goat cheese frittata. (8764 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood; 310-432-2000; cecconiswesthollywood.com)
The Polo Lounge
“Hopefully you’ve had a moment in between meetings—a break for both your mind and stomach. Next on the schedule is the classic power lunch at The Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel,” Dandashy says. “Don’t let the pink and green theme fool you; real business is done here. It is not uncommon to see Hollywood heavyweights sitting at the table next to you, such as Mel Brooks, Steven Spielberg or Harvey Weinstein. The history of the hotel and The Polo Lounge is quite extensive, and any business meetings held here are a recipe for success.” The lunch menu features a range of classic entrees that will please all appetites from fish tacos and lobster salad to sweet corn tortellini, steak frites and Mediterranean sea bass. (9641 Sunset Blvd., Beverly Hills; 310-887-2777; dorchestercollection.com)
Beverly Hills
“If you can squeeze in a moment for yourself, I recommend strolling the streets of Beverly Hills,” Dandashy says. “No need to break out the wallet, as window shopping will do just fine. A walk along Rodeo Drive is a great way to relax and enjoy our pleasant sunshine. Think of it as a mini vacation in the middle of your day. If you’ve already done the whole Rodeo experience, then check out Robertson Boulevard. It’s a little smaller, and funky boutiques line the streets. But it still provides a great break in the middle of your day.”
The Tower Bar
“Dinner should be held at The Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel,” Dandashy suggests. “It is not just a bar, but an actual restaurant. Again, another destination for a power meal, [as] the sleek, modern interior doesn’t distract from the business at hand. Be sure to sit inside—an opposite tip from most LA restaurants. VIPs choose to dine indoors rather than on the patio. It’s nice to be in the know.” (8358 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood; 323-848-6677; sunsettowerhotel.com)
Bar Marmont
“Of course you have had a long day, but should you need to fit in one more meeting or just want to enjoy a nightcap solo, head over to Bar Marmont,” Dandashy says of the last stop of the day. “Everyone is vying to get into the restaurant within the hotel of the Chateau Marmont, but the bar (which has a separate entrance) is actually the place to be. With a multitude of rooms, the laid-back, Old Hollywood decor attracts a unique crowd. The drinks are solid, and there is usually great music setting the scene. Break out of your mold, and order one of their classic cocktails [like the Millionaire, which mixes rye whiskey, lemon juice, grenadine and Absente]. Cheers, because you’ve just survived a successful business trip in Los Angeles.” (8171 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood; 323-650-0575; chateaumarmont.com)
—Written by Kirsti Correa
