Can you share a brief bio that includes your background as chef concierge?
I've been with Four Seasons Los Angeles for 11 years. The first 7 years was at the front desk where I honed my skills to resolve problems and create memorable experiences for our guests. I was then promoted to spa manager which then led to my current home at
the concierge.
What service can you provide to groups that they normally might not receive?
Un-scripted care! If the guest can conceive it, my team will strive to achieve it. Although a guest is apart of a group, each person has an individual story and need. This is our approach to making the guest feel special and unique...that's the magic.
In addition, our hotel combines the best of both worlds. Business can be well accomplished in the hotel all while being steps away from a leisurely LA getaway without ever leaving the hotel.
What is an unusual request you have had from a group?
If one of their VIP's could land their helicopter upon the rooftop of our hotel
What’s a unique event that has taken place at your property?
I'll need to ask Kim if I'm able to mention that President Obama stayed with us during his presidency, if not, we can use the note below
Four Seasons LA is Hollywood's backyard. Hollywood Blvd may host movie premieres but Four Seasons LA is home of the movie screenings. We have a state of the art screening room where movies are screened by media influencers and press before hitting the
theaters.
What is Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills known for and what are some of the greatest things to experience on property, particularly anything new?
From the Hollywood elite to the families from around the world, we are known as a luxury yet warm and inviting getaway within the city.
I refer to our 4th floor as THE oasis. Our newly redesigned spa, salt-water pool, and outdoor/indoor gym are there along with our one of a kind Wellness rooms. This new room concept encompasses all things health, such as dechlorinating showers, air purification system,
and circadian lighting just to name a few. IF you want to continue in the wellness realm, one can enjoy our new vegan menu at the pool by famed chef Matthew Kenney. On the contrary, we have the best Sunday buffet brunch in town.
What are your favorite restaurants in the destination right now, particularly any that are ideal for a small group?
1. Bacari: I absolutely adore this family owned restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine. It is truly a hidden gem.
You walk through a small unassuming tunnel, reminiscent of walking through the streets of Spain, then suddenly the restaurant opens up into this beautiful courtyard. You feel as if you've stumbled upon a secret garden. This is perfect for groups!
2. Rosaline: Peruvian cuisine in a trendy yet inviting ambiance. Lovely patio that is excellent for groups...the paella is to die for!
3. Eveleigh: Rustic farm to table serving American cuisine. Known for their stunning patio which is attractive to groups and Angelenos alike.
What are your bar or nightclub recommendations?
Delilah, roaring 1920's themed restaurant/supper club that turns into a nightclub after hours.
Avenue/Beauty & Essex/Highlight room: Located in Hollywood, this sector feels like it's on private compound. This is such a great concept because everything you need for an evening out is conveniently in one area. After dining at Tao or Beauty & Essex, the guest can literally walk to the rooftop bar at the Highlight room or dance the night away at Avenue nightclub.
Can you recommend a good place to take a stroll?
1. The Grove
Still one of my favorite places to visit & recommend. This outdoor shopping area is home to the Original farmer's market where you can mingle with local vendors, enjoy ethnic cuisines, and specialty items such as an original Etch & Sketch.
One can take in a movie, dine at one of several restaurants, or listen to the themed music that coordinates with the dancing fountain.
2. Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine Temple
Beautiful meditation Garden in the Pacific Palisades surrounded by a lake and serene flowers. One can take a stroll, meditate, or just enjoy the essence of this secret oasis.
Are there any quirky places we should check out?
1. The newest workout trend to hit the city, Hello Critter’s Goat Yoga. Participants pet, take pics, and commune with Nigerian Dwarf goats in a hour yoga class.
2. Speakeasies by Houston brothers: their latest concept is, 'Madame Siam Sideshow Emporium' - an old time carnival themed nightclub with Carnival games, contortionist, tarot card readers, etc.
3. We love our outdoor movie moments in LA and nothing is more magical than going to Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery and watching such classics as 'Pretty Woman' and 'Swingers' under the stars. Yes, I did say
cemetery, but not to worry, the crowd lounges on the Fairbanks lawn. Guests create a community for that evening by bringing blankets, food, and wine as they socialize with a lovely crowd while listening to a DJ before the movie magic begins.
What are some of the hot districts/neighborhoods to experience right now?
Downtown is taking over! This area has been revitalized to become the epicenter for architecture, hotels, museums, and exceptional restaurants such as Bestia & Bavel.
Just on the heels of downtown is Silverlake/Echo Park. This area has made being a hipster trendy. The vibe is all about creative arts and cultural yet cool restaurants such as Trois Familia(Mexican-French) and Night + Market Song(Street Thai)
An attendee has a day of leisure time before their opening reception and wants to explore some cultural gems of LA. What would you recommend?
1. Explore the Getty Villa for art & enjoy a lovely picnic.
2. Visit the Griffith Park Observatory for the view, astronomy thrills, and the nostalgia('Rebel Without a Cause' with James Dean was filmed here)
3. Escape to the Huntington Library filled with 36,000 works of arts and whimsical gardens...this recommendation never disappoints
4. Frederick Weisman Art Foundation: entry must be approved in advance, however, admittance is easier through our concierge contact. This is a private collection housed in a 1920's villa in Beverly Hills. It a museum worthy collection with abstract, pop, and modern works that is shown to the guests in a semi-private tour setting. The experience is exceptional.
What do you love most about being chef concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills?
The pressure is definitely on to deliver at all times but when you can "make it happen" for that one guest...there is an exhilarating feeling that is indescribable!