What it is

A modern temple for devotees of fashion, opulence and design.

What it isn't

Family-friendly or quiet. This is in the heart of L.A.’s party scene. Parents beware.

What we think

The SLS is the playful, high-design love child of Philippe Starck and hip nightlife and hospitality company SBE. A blocky white exterior hides a whimsical, even effervescent interior courtesy of the enfant terrible of French design. You'll see Starckisms like a glowing Lucite nine-point buck mounted above the mantle, floor lamps with machine guns for stems and an all-white, curtain-swathed spa. The 297 guest rooms and suites are a bit more demure, with low and plush furnishings and oversize windows with views of the city. Quirky details will either enchant you or drive you crazy, like the bed that appears to float in the middle of the room (the desk is behind the headboard) or the bathroom with its abundance of mirrors. Chef José Andrés's Bazaar extends the funhouse vibe. Half of the menu centers around molecular gastronomy (cotton candy foie gras), the other on more traditional Spanish favorites (Ibérico ham; grilled octopus). The place is always packed; Bar Centro handles some of the overflow. The rooftop pool is another of the area's hot attractions—even though it's too shallow for actual swimming. By day, only hotel guests are permitted, but at night the pool area—and the whole hotel, for that matter—is thrumming.

You're here because

You're looking for luxury, whimsy and a thumping party scene.

The Moment

The amber light gleams on every surface, making the bar feel like it's glowing. Long-legged ladies and impeccably scruffed gents mingle around the space, laughter and music taking the place of audible conversation. You look down at your liquid nitrogen caipirinha and smile into the fog.

Restaurants & Bars

• The Nook: Cozy breakfast spot.

• LADiDa: Chic rooftop dining.

• Rooftop Pool: Poolside bites and cocktails.

• Sushi by Scratch: Exclusive omakase pop-up

Location

Just north of Wilshire Boulevard and a block from the Beverly Center (and, as some residents will sniff, technically not in Beverly Hills). It's 10 minutes by car to Rodeo Drive and, traffic permitting, around 35 minutes to LAX.