The A List
No, really. Everything in this Los Angeles travel hit list begins with "A." Ironic, eh?
ANDAZ HOTEL
(8401 Sunset Blvd., 323-656-1234; www.westhollywood.hyatt.com)
Joining a new group of hotels that marks a modern step for the Hyatt brand, the Andaz West Hollywood the perfect spot to park your suitcase. Located on the Sunset Strip, Andaz is a renovated Hyatt that’s been outfitted with sexier rooms, stylish public spaces (above), and a market-to-table restaurant. What we love (besides the free WiFi): checking in like you check out at Apple stores – anywhere an employee has one of those mobile register thingamaiggers. Rates for standard rooms begin around $200, and surprisingly suites can be booked for a only fraction more.
No. A BOUTIQUE
(374 E. 2nd St., 213-626-6155, www.number-a.com)
Guys and girls looking for brands that come from local LA warehouses as well as international designers will love No. A boutique. Barely a month-old, this Little Tokyo spot is livening up the fashion scene with a mix of pieces that add accessible fun to any wardrobe.
ANIMAL RESTAURANT
(435 N. Fairfax Ave., 323-782-9225, www.animalrestaurant.com)
Thank the calorie Gods that LA is finally showing signs of a revolt against the health-food assault of the past 10 years. Leading the charge is Animal, serving all that, well, comes from an animal. Think pig ears topped with a fried egg, foie gras biscuits with maple/sausage gravy, and a bone-in ribeye that will challenge veteran carnivores. It’s all served in a whitewashed shotgun space devoid of art to let focus fall on the plated animals and hipster vibe.
