Pleasantly Surprised on First Trip to So Cal
I was apprehensive about staying here after reading some poor reviews. Don't let them scare you! The hotel was great, awesome desk staff, lobby, bar, PERFECT location. Yes, you can tell it is an older hotel that has been nicely updated and remodeled, not new construction. So what if the aluminum windows frames are 20 or 30 years old? Room was clean, large, and had contemporary furnishings. It's true that it's not Trump International in NYC (yes I HAVE stayed there) but it's also $200 night, not $1000. We had absolutely NO problem with noise or dirty/broken rooms/fixtures. If you are a music fan, you will appreciate the history and karma that this hotel has. Lobby and bar/restaurant are very funky and cool. Had an unexpected surprise when we first got to our room and looked out the window and saw the view of amazing houses in the hill right behind the hotel. A fan of contemporary architecture, I was very pleasantly surprised to see that one of my personal favorites, Pierre Koenig's famous Stahl House, is actually right up behind the hotel to the right. I didn't know that's where it was located until I looked out the window and saw it, and then MapQuested it just to verify! In response to one review I read that said there's no good coffee nearby, there's a Starbuck's just 2 doors down. There are also plenty of lounges and restaurants within walking distance for all palletes and budgets, ranging from McDonald's to the loud but fun and family-friendly Saddle House next door (where the servings are HUGE so split one with someone!) There's the House of Blues across the street, and A-List bars & restaurants across at the Standard and the Mondrian. There are music and comedy clubs within walking distance as well. Very conveniently located near Hollywood attractions to the east and Beverly Hills to the west. Would prefer to stay here in West Hollywood than Hollywood itself which is touristy and parts are quite scummy. Will definitely plan to stay at "Riot Hyatt" again!
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