It's hard to imagine that the Sunset Marquis could actually be improved. The hotel of choice for the international jet-set and music industry clientele, this Hollywood haven-- a hidden sanctuary of lush gardens and heated pools just off Sunset-- was "boutique" before "boutique" even existed. Rich in history, host to myriad film, fashion, and music events, the Sunset Marquis is as famed for its fabulous service as it is for its on-site private recording studio. Since opening in 1963, the Sunset Marquis has provided personalized services to the likes of the Rolling Stones, U2, Brad Pitt, Gabriel Byrne, Jennifer Lopez and Al Pacino. Its state-of-the-art recording studio has been used by Aerosmith, Mary J. Blige and, most recently, Madonna and Josh Groban. Now the Sunset Marquis has finished a $20 million expansion. And it's dazzling.
There are 40 new villas. All 12 of the existing villas and 102 hotel suites have been upgraded. The crown jewel of the property? The magnificent Presidential Suite with 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 fireplaces, private screening room, dining area for 10, executive office, accessibility by private elevator and 24 hour Villa Butler. Presidential Villa guests also have the option of a chauffeur or self-driven Bentley, or chauffeured limo or SUV. But that's not all. The Villa pool area has been revamped with new private cabanas, and the main pool-- with al fresco dining-- boasts a new outdoor bar.
The buzzing LA hotspot Whiskey Bar has been re-christened as Bar 1200. (Pictured. You can see the private collection of celebrity and rock icon photographs taken by renowned photographer Ross Halfin.) The famous recording studio is now called NightBird. And a new spa with Porsche furniture will soon debut. Coming soon: a dazzling new restaurant, where the Paris-trained Chef Guillaume Burlion is creating a French Fusion/Continental menu. Having worked at Michelin-starred establishments (and even cooked for Bill Clinton!), the new chef promises to wow his guests.