When imagining “luxury hospitality,” one might conjure images of idyllic all-inclusive resorts along pristine coastlines or charming boutiques nestled in bustling city streets. For me, luxury hospitality means immersing oneself in a sanctuary of serenity, where the burdens of everyday life can be relinquished, and one can realign with core values.
Pendry Hotels and Resorts, founded by Alan and Michael Fuerstman under the esteemed Montage Hotels & Resorts umbrella, epitomizes refined elegance and unparalleled service. Since its inception in 2017 in San Diego, Pendry has set the standard for indulgent retreats worldwide with its collection of exclusive boutique establishments, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.
Pendry is a collection of thoughtfully appointed hotels and residences designed to usher in a new era of luxury hospitality anchored by contemporary design, boutique culture and elevated service at every turn.
Pendry.com
Today, we’ll delve into the world of Pendry West Hollywood, nestled amidst the vibrant backdrop of one of Los Angeles’ most iconic neighborhoods.
As a reminder, I am not affiliated with the hotel being reviewed. I did not receive any monetary or other incentives for providing this review. My opinions are solely based on my personal experience.
Location
Centrally located on Sunset Blvd in the heart of West Hollywood, Pendry West Hollywood offers easy access to iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and TLC Chinese Theatre, making it an ideal choice for tourists seeking to explore the area’s rich culture and history.
Room
During our stay, we experienced the Piazza One Bedroom Suite, boasting elegant furnishings and contemporary decor. The suite features a king-size bed, a sofa sleeper, and two 55″ TVs for optimal comfort. While the room’s design exudes art deco charm, the disappointment arose from the lack of a usable mini-fridge, which instead acted as a vending machine for expensive drinks and alcohol—a stark contrast to the ethos of hospitality.
Food
Our dining experience at Ospero for breakfast left much to be desired, with watered-down lattes and stale croissants, accompanied by slow service due to apparent understaffing—a notable disappointment considering the hotel’s luxury branding.
However, it’s worth noting that there are other restaurants at the hotel, such as Merois, which we did not have the opportunity to try. Reviews for Merois are generally positive, although some mention inattentive staff and mediocre food, suggesting a potentially mixed dining experience for guests.
Service
Regrettably, the staff at Pendry seemed either stressed or apathetic, with instances of abrupt demeanor shifts between interactions with guests and delivery drivers. Additionally, issues with valet service, including double charging and distraction, further detracted from the overall experience.
Facilities
While the rooftop pool and bar offer scenic views, the space felt cramped and overcrowded by mid-afternoon, diminishing its appeal. However, the spa emerged as a highlight, with attentive staff providing an enjoyable couple’s massage experience.
Other notable mentions
The clientele at Pendry West Hollywood appeared to be quite boisterous during our stay. We encountered multiple instances of guests blasting music audible from the hallways, disrupting the tranquility of the environment. Additionally, a notable incident occurred when a guest interrupted the serene ambiance of the spa’s sauna room to vent about a football score, further detracting from the relaxation experience.
Overall Impression
Despite its luxurious facade, Pendry West Hollywood fell short of expectations, prioritizing aesthetics over substance. With room rates exceeding $500 per night, the lackluster service and amenities left a lasting impression of disappointment, rendering a return visit unlikely.
While Pendry Hotels and Resorts may tout a new era of luxury hospitality, our experience at Pendry West Hollywood suggests that there’s still room for improvement in delivering on that promise.
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