With superb dining, spa treatments and city scenery, Conrad Los Angeles is a unique downtown escape.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
Downtown Los Angeles is a hub for outstanding arts, culture, entertainment and dining, so why not stay in the center of it all? Just under two years ago, Conrad Los Angeles opened its doors as the brand’s first California property, situated on South Grand Ave. right off the 110 freeway.
Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the 305-room, 28-story property offers pristine views and plenty of privacy for a relaxing getaway while still in the heart of the action. Just across the street is the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall and adjacent is the contemporary art museum, The Broad. For those up for the walk, Grand Central Market is a few blocks away and is the perfect place to grab a quick bite from a variety of different vendors.
Once inside Conrad Los Angeles, guests will find a state-of-the-art spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, cocktail lounge and five different dining options, including both San Laurel and Agua Viva. Here’s how to spend the weekend at this slice of urban luxury.
Upon arrival, elevators transport you to the tenth floor, where a majority of the property’s dining lives. Open until “close,” The Beaudry Room is located just behind the concierge and welcomes imbibers for flavorful cocktails and tapas. Chit-chat over patatas bravas, crab croquetas and gazpacho—just a short introduction to the delicacies by acclaimed chef José Andrés, the man behind the hotel’s five dining concepts. Kick off your weekend vacation with a cocktail: The shiso spicy margarita ignites the senses, while a classic espresso martini will put the pep back in your step after fighting traffic.
The Beaudry Room; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
Waking up at Conrad Los Angeles is a treat, with panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles from nearly every guest room. Venture down to the outdoor restaurant Agua Viva for a weekend-only brunch beginning at 10 a.m. With sunshine pouring into the lush terrace, you’ll feel miles away from the city while being perched right above it. Menu items are infused with Spanish influence and offer experimental brunch selections like Peruvian Scallops with Yuzu Kosho, jamón & eggs, a smashed Txule burger, whole fried seabream and build-your-own-handrolls. Talk about a great start to the day!
Agua Viva; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
If you’re vacation lands on one of Southern California’s classic sunny days, hitting the rooftop pool is a must. Camp out on plush loungers high above the city streets while surrounded by the incredible urban landscape. In between dips in the infinity pool, order drinks from the pool deck bar Airlight, which is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. We recommend the sweet and subtle elderflower Honeydew Collins, but non-drinkers will love a bubbly Flamingo Shuttle with guava vanilla, citrus and club soda.
Conrad pool; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
Revive your mind and body at the on-site spa and fitness center. Whether you’re a fan of cardio, weight training or a relaxing yoga session, the gym has everything you need to debrief and focus on fitness during your stay, including classes like the kettlebell power hour every Saturday at 8 a.m. After your workout, head upstairs to the gorgeous Conrad Spa, which offers a wide range of luxurious massages, facials and body treatments to help you unwind. The private recovery cabins are another option to debrief and tap into meditation through HigherDose Infrared PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) mats with views of The Grand LA outside your window. Finish off your rejuvenating experience with an infrared sauna session, showers and a relaxation lounge complete with culinary confections, hot tea and online access to nearly 70,000 publications.
Conrad Spa massage table; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
Guests can’t leave without a visit to chef José Andrés’ San Laurel. This indoor-outdoor upscale eatery serves breakfast and dinner daily to discerning diners. In the evening, indulge in Spanish-meets-California tapas ranging from a sweet and florally persimmon stracciatella salad to a melt-in-your-mouth wagyu flatiron steak. Those searching for something new should try the vermicelli “mac n cheese” with Idiazábal and shallots or the sea urchin in gazpacho consommé. But the meal isn’t complete without an inventive drink—such as the Japanese Milk Punch that frequently sells out—and a deliciously rich dessert. Our recommendation? Try the dehydrated chocolate mousse with three types of chocolate and uber-fresh mint ice cream.
San Laurel; PHOTO COURTESY OF BRAND
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