Where to Stay in West Hollywood
High up on Sunset Boulevard, Chateau Marmont (8221 Sunset Blvd) is one of the citys most iconic places to stay. Its where everyone from James Dean to Robert De Niro has hung out at one time or another, where Greta Garbo, Keanu Reeves and Lindsay Lohan have lived, and where John Belushi died. And thats only what we know about
Another star-studded address is the Sunset Tower (8358 W Sunset Blvd), an Art Deco landmark building once dubbed Hollywood's Most Distinguished Address. Its been home to Frank Sinatra, Errol Flyn, Zsa Zsa Gabor, John Wayne, Michael Caine and Roger Moore amongst others. Today the bar is still popular with the likes of Tom Cruise, David Beckham, J-Lo, Penelope Cruz and Jennifer Aniston. For something new with fantastic views, the Andaz (8401 Sunset Boulevard) oozes contemporary cool, from its concept check-in to the minimalist designer bedrooms, with their floor-to-ceiling windows for views stretching out over LA's glittering skyline.
Where to Eat in West Hollywood
For breakfast, dont miss the Magnolia Bakery (8389 West 3rd Street), responsible for launching the global cupcake craze and a favourite of Katie Holmes. Another Hollywood morning hangout is Café Urth (8565 Melrose Avenue), which often pops up in Entourage. With regulars like Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Mark Wahlberg, and Sienna Miller, its become a morning mecca for movie-makers and shakers in search of a good cappuccino.
For lunch, head to Gordon Ramseys Boxwood Café at The London hotel on Sunset. Surprisingly affordable yet plush, theres even a $20 three-course menu with great grilled octopus tagliatelle and beef risotto. Keep your eyes peeled for the Beckhams, Scarlett Johansson, Liv Tyler or J-Lo. To go totally LA, go macrobiotic at M Café on Melrose where Jake Gyllenhaal, Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Alba like to lunch.
At night cool carnivores should try BOA. Located on Sunset, on Soho Houses ground floor, its paparazzi central but the indoor/outdoor patio is dimly lit to give some much needed privacy. Nibble on small plate bites such as barbecued shrimp, gorgeous sushi and (not so) mini burgers.
For something chic with a touch of rustic, the Eveleigh (8752 W Sunset Boulevard) is a buzzing dining spot. Its covered patio-style room at the back is stuffed with Hollywoods finest enjoying crispy seasoned squid, pork rillettes and truffle French fries by candlelight. To be guaranteed a celeb sighting, try Il Sole (8741 West Sunset Boulevard), a staple with the stars. Another hot new address is Fig & Olive on Melrose Place where beautiful people Liz Hurley, Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosia have all been spotted since it opened in March.
Where to Go Out in West Hollywood
Renowned for its nightlife, West Hollywood is where the likes of Paris and Lindsay get papped nightly. For dancing, clubs Voyeur, Crown Bar and Mi6 (all on Santa Monica Boulevard) attract both A-listers and wannabees after nightfall. Alternatively, there are always the iconic hotpots on West Sunset Boulevard, like the infamous Viper Room, the House of Blues or the Whisky a Go-Go (scene of many of Jim Morrisons wildest nights).
For civilised cocktails, try the snazzy terrace bars like Skybar at the Mondrian (8440 Sunset Boulevard) or the Standards Cactus Lounge (8300 Sunset Boulevard) with its twinkling LA light views, giant daybeds and live DJ. Alternatively, theres the secret patio at Dominicks which serves delicious Southside and Pink Elephant cocktails to those in the know like Gwyneth Paltrow, Sofia Coppola, Drew Barrymore and Kirsten Dunst.
Where to Shop in West Hollywood
Why Melrose of course The hottest place to shop in WeHo is on Melrose Avenue where LAs finest come to spend their dollars. At The Avenues (where Melrose meets Beverly and Robertson), youll find designer flagships for and , local ateliers and art galleries. Further along, North Robertson has been nicknamed the new Rodeo Drive with , and . To spot a celeb loaded with shopping bags try Maxfield (8825 Melrose Avenue), a quintessential West Hollywood high-end boutique where youll find a large and eclectic selection clothing and accessories.
For something uniquely WeHo, head to J. Gerard Design Studio & Peace Gallery (8575 Melrose Avenue) where Julia Gerard sells her high-end couture with a rock-and-roll edge, along with reasonably priced peace-themed t-shirts, jewellery and accessories.
What to Wear in West Hollywood
You can go one of two ways: either super-polished or LA laid-back. Perfect nails, perfect hair, perfect tan and perfect body encased in some inspired by Eva Longoria in Desperate Housewives, or opt for all the above wrapped in the sporty, laid-back attire of tracksuit bottoms or skimpy shorts and vest top suggesting off-duty model and I dont care. Mere mortals cant go wrong in classic skinny jeans, white T and on-trend bag but that healthy glow and perfect teeth are essential to go native.
Don't Leave Without
something cute from Kitson. Situated on Melrose Avenue, Kitson is a well-known hotspot for those who know their stuff. Even if youre not buying, its worth popping in to see if you can spot Kitson fans Paris Hilton, the Olsen Twins or Halle Berry on a spree. Whether you want the latest it bracelet, the Energy Muse bracelet spotted on David Beckhams arm or a distressed US flag bag youre bound to find something you fancy.
Beauty SOS Where to Go for Pampering in West Hollywood
For some serious Hollywood-style pampering Ole Henriksen at the Sunset Plaza is the way forward. Sign up for the signature antioxidant African Red Tea Body Cocktail. For that Hollywood glow, try the facial at the low-key but still wildly popular, Spa at Sunset Marquis (1200 Alta Loma Road). Need a relaxed day spa? Try the unisex Voda (7700 Santa Monica Boulevard), which even has its own bar and smoking patio. Very LA. To complete the red carpet makeover with all important fake eyelashes try Makeup Mandy (8441 Melrose Ave) while for that shiny manicure Jessicas Nail Clinic (8627 W Sunset Blvd) is the place to head for.
Prefer East Coast to West? Check out our New York guide. Or see all ELLE escapes travel guides.
