Rooftop season is in full swing in Los Angeles, and The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills’ newly launched West End Roof Top is a perfect excuse to appreciate the warmth of a summer evening with a chilled beverage in hand.
To kick off our weekend, my friend and I headed to the chic luxury hotel’s rooftop lounge, making our way to the top floor at the start of sunset. It was perfect timing: The bright-blue sky was turning dusky in color, splashed with rosy and orange hues. Showcasing sweeping views of West Hollywood — where the typical frenzy becomes peaceful when observed from up high — the lounge is especially a treat on clear evenings.
Besides the bird’s-eye vista, most in-the-know visitors also check out a rooftop establishment for the ambiance — which West End Roof Top has aced, thanks to neon and pink signage, abundant greenery and pops of colorful patterns. (However, the designers behind the space knew not to go overboard, in respect of the real star: the view.)
But, to our surprise, it was the culinary offerings that most impressed us. Created by Anthony Keene, the hotel’s executive chef, the West End Roof Top’s menu reflects Southern Californian influences as well as global inspirations, likely due in part to the diverse international clients who frequent the property.
Still feeling the high temperatures from earlier that day, my friend and I were in the mood for cool and refreshing dishes — with one exception. We permitted a different sort of heat: spice. Correspondingly, our first order of business was to order two Spicy Brit cocktails, composed of smoky Mezcal Union, jalapeno, agave, lime and cucumber.
From the rotating daily menu, we chose the butter-poached lobster with a grilled corn and jalapeno salad. Though small, as lobster rolls regrettably (and heartbreakingly) always seem to be, it was one of the best I’ve ever eaten.
Additionally, our picks from the regular menu included the salt and pepper calamari (complemented by a spicy aji amarillo sauce, a smart and unusual choice); an extraordinarily delicious spicy tuna roll; charred salmon nigiri with smoked roe; and kusshi oysters on the half-shell — clean in flavor and featuring the mind-blowing addition of watermelon bits with each satisfying slurp.
Long story short? Sure, go for the view. But stay for the food.
The Details
The London West Hollywood
www.thelondonwesthollywood.com
