Grab your Pursuitist Passport for the ultimate 48 hours in Los Angeles: where to stay, what to eat, where to shop, and discover our favorite luxury experiences in the City of Angels.
Christopher Parr, the award-winning travel journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Pursuitist, takes you inside his favorite Los Angeles destinations, from legendary Hollywood hotels and exclusive designer boutiques to exceptional restaurants and unforgettable experiences. Discover his insider picks for a luxurious weekend in L.A.
Los Angeles has always known how to put on a show. Legendary Hollywood hotels, palm-lined boulevards, exceptional restaurants, and some of the world’s most desirable shopping addresses are all part of the attraction. Lately, a new generation of designer flagships, imaginative chefs, and exciting cultural experiences has given us even more reasons to return.
House of Dior has opened a spectacular flagship on Rodeo Drive, Proenza Schouler has arrived on Melrose Place, and West Hollywood is home to one of America’s most extraordinary three-Michelin-starred restaurants. Meanwhile, beloved institutions like Hotel Bel-Air and The Beverly Hills Hotel continue to capture the Hollywood glamour that makes Los Angeles special.
For this Pursuitist Passport, we’ve selected three exceptional hotels, two memorable dinners, our favorite luxury shopping destinations, and a few exclusive experiences worth planning an action-packed weekend around. Our recommendations prioritize distinctive settings, exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful service, and experiences that justify the splurge.
Our advice? Enjoy the best of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, make a few wonderful reservations, and leave time to truly enjoy that famous California sunshine. This is Los Angeles, after all.
Your 48-Hour Los Angeles Luxury Itinerary
Los Angeles rewards a little planning. The best restaurants book quickly, designer boutiques often offer private appointments, and even a short drive can become an adventure in L.A. traffic.
For this itinerary, we’re concentrating on Beverly Hills, Melrose Place, and West Hollywood. You’ll discover plenty of exceptional experiences without spending half your weekend in the back seat of an UBER.
Day 1: Beverly Hills and Classic Hollywood Glamour
Morning: Begin with breakfast at the legendary Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel. Explore Rodeo Drive, including the spectacular House of Dior flagship and its beautifully designed interiors.
Afternoon: Visit Gagosian for contemporary art, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or return to your hotel for a spa treatment and time by the pool.
Evening: Reserve dinner at Funke for handmade Italian pasta, followed by cocktails at Bar Funke overlooking Beverly Hills.
Day 2: Melrose Place, Exclusive Shopping, and Michelin-Star Dining
Morning: Discover the designer boutiques of Melrose Place, including Proenza Schouler, The Row, and Khaite.
Afternoon: Explore Maxfield’s remarkable fashion and design collections, visit H.Lorenzo’s flagship, and leave time for a relaxing afternoon at your hotel.
Evening: Make dinner at three-Michelin-starred Somni the culinary highlight of the weekend.
Pursuitist Tip: This itinerary works especially well on a Friday and Saturday. Proenza Schouler and The Row close Sundays, as does Funke. Confirm current schedules and arrange your most important restaurant reservations before booking the rest of your weekend.
Where to Stay in Los Angeles: Three Exceptional Luxury Hotels
1. Hotel Bel-Air: Best for Privacy, Romance, and a Beautiful Escape
Hotel Bel-Air is one of Los Angeles’ loveliest luxury hotels, tucked into 12 acres of lush gardens in the exclusive hills of Bel-Air.
Since opening in 1946, the property has attracted travelers looking for privacy, understated glamour, and a peaceful retreat from the city. Its 103 rooms and suites are spread across beautifully landscaped grounds, with accommodations offering private patios, fireplaces, garden views, and residential comforts depending on the category.
Part of the pleasure begins before reaching your room. A walk across the bridge near Swan Lake, surrounded by mature trees and tropical greenery, introduces the property’s wonderfully secluded atmosphere.
Hotel Bel-Air feels removed from the bustle of Beverly Hills, although Rodeo Drive and the city’s celebrated restaurants are a drive away.
The hotel’s heated outdoor swimming pool is reserved for overnight guests, while The Spa at Hotel Bel-Air offers massages, facials, body treatments, and couples’ experiences.
Dining is another reason to linger. The Restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air serves contemporary California cuisine with Mediterranean influences, and the outdoor terrace overlooking Swan Lake is especially appealing for a romantic meal.
For something more casual, stop at The Pâtisserie for coffee and a French pastry, or enjoy cocktails in The Living Room.
Pursuitist Tip: Hotel Bel-Air offers complimentary house-car transportation for overnight guests within a three-mile radius, subject to its current schedule and availability. Arrange longer journeys through the concierge or your preferred car service.
Pursuitist Take: Hotel Bel-Air is where we’d stay for a romantic escape or a weekend when the hotel itself is part of the adventure. We love the idea of spending an afternoon enjoying the gardens, a spa treatment, and the beautiful pool before heading out for dinner. The secluded location is a genuine attraction, although travelers planning a shopping-heavy weekend may prefer The Maybourne.
2. The Beverly Hills Hotel: Best for Classic Hollywood Glamour
The Beverly Hills Hotel, affectionately known as the Pink Palace, has been a Hollywood institution since 1912.
Its famous pink exterior, tropical gardens, banana-leaf wallpaper, and private bungalows have become part of the city’s identity. Generations of actors, musicians, directors, and Hollywood personalities have visited the hotel, particularly its celebrated Polo Lounge.
Rooms and suites offer a classic California resort atmosphere, while the bungalows provide an especially appealing sense of residential luxury. Some offer secluded outdoor spaces, and we’d favor a bungalow for a special stay.
The hotel’s iconic swimming pool dates to 1938 and remains one of its greatest attractions. Poolside cabanas provide additional privacy and comfort for registered guests.
The Polo Lounge serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a dining room full of Hollywood history. The Fountain Coffee Room, with its curved counter and vintage diner atmosphere, offers another enjoyable option.
For travelers who want to experience traditional Hollywood hospitality, the hotel’s greatest attractions are already well established: the bungalows, pool, Polo Lounge, and beautiful grounds.
Good to know: The Beverly Hills Hotel swimming pool is reserved for registered overnight guests. The Polo Lounge welcomes outside diners, and reservations are recommended. Check its dress code before visiting.
Pursuitist Take: The Beverly Hills Hotel is classic Los Angeles, and we love it for exactly that reason. The Polo Lounge, legendary pool, and beautiful bungalows make the property an experience in itself. We’d choose it for a first luxury visit to L.A., particularly if Hollywood history, a little glamour, and a lively social atmosphere are part of the appeal.
3. The Maybourne Beverly Hills: Best for Shopping, Spa, and Location
The Maybourne Beverly Hills occupies one of the most convenient luxury hotel addresses in Los Angeles, overlooking Beverly Cañon Gardens in the heart of Beverly Hills’ Golden Triangle.
Rodeo Drive, designer boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries are within easy walking distance. That’s a genuine luxury in a city where so much depends on having a car.
The hotel combines contemporary design with the polished hospitality associated with the Maybourne brand. Rooms and suites feature spacious bathrooms, sophisticated furnishings, and a refined residential atmosphere.
The Spa at The Maybourne is a major attraction, offering extensive wellness facilities, steam rooms, saunas, relaxation lounges, and a mineral pool beneath a beautiful mosaic-tiled atrium.
Upstairs, the hotel’s rooftop pool offers a sunny place to relax while taking in views across Beverly Hills and toward the Hollywood Hills.
Another highlight is Dante Beverly Hills, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and cocktail destination. Italian-inspired dishes, classic cocktails, and outdoor dining make it a wonderful place for a relaxed afternoon or early evening.
We particularly like the idea of returning to the hotel after shopping, changing for dinner, and enjoying an aperitivo at Dante before the evening begins.
Pursuitist Tip: Dante welcomes restaurant guests and walk-ins, subject to availability. The rooftop swimming pool is accessible to registered hotel guests and eligible spa members under the hotel’s membership program. Ordinary guest passes do not include rooftop pool access. Private cabanas and dining reservations have separate arrangements.
Pursuitist Take: The Maybourne is our favorite hotel for this particular itinerary. The location makes exploring Beverly Hills remarkably easy, the spa is a wonderful attraction, and Dante gives us a great reason to return for cocktails. Hotel Bel-Air offers greater privacy, while The Beverly Hills Hotel delivers stronger Hollywood nostalgia. The Maybourne makes a luxury shopping and dining weekend feel wonderfully convenient.
Three More Luxury Hotels Worth Considering
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel: Set at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, this celebrated hotel offers classic Beverly Hills hospitality and an exceptionally convenient shopping address. CUT by Wolfgang Puck is an added attraction for steak enthusiasts.
The Peninsula Beverly Hills: An intimate luxury hotel known for attentive service, elegant accommodations, and a beautiful rooftop pool. We’d consider it for travelers who appreciate traditional hospitality and a peaceful residential atmosphere.
Nobu Ryokan Malibu: This exceptionally private 16-room retreat on Carbon Beach offers Japanese-inspired design, oceanfront accommodations, and personalized service. It’s a compelling destination for couples, although we’d save it for a dedicated Malibu escape.
Pursuitist’s hotel recommendation: Choose Hotel Bel-Air for romance and privacy, The Beverly Hills Hotel for classic Hollywood glamour, and The Maybourne for shopping, spa treatments, and a convenient Beverly Hills location. Each delivers a distinctly different version of luxury Los Angeles.
Day 1: Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and a Taste of Hollywood
Morning: Breakfast at the Polo Lounge
Start your Los Angeles weekend with breakfast at the Polo Lounge at The Beverly Hills Hotel.
Few restaurants capture the history of the city quite like this one. Its familiar green-and-white stripes, lush outdoor patio, and famous dining room have made it a gathering place for generations of Hollywood personalities.
Breakfast is a particularly enjoyable way to experience the restaurant. Settle in with coffee, order something delicious, and enjoy the atmosphere before heading into Beverly Hills.
For travelers staying at Hotel Bel-Air, the hotel’s own restaurant overlooking Swan Lake is another lovely option. We’d happily choose either experience depending on the mood of the morning.
Pursuitist Tip: The Polo Lounge serves breakfast daily, followed by lunch and dinner service. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekends.
Pursuitist Take: The Polo Lounge is one of those Los Angeles experiences we’d recommend even to travelers staying somewhere else. Go for the history, the beautiful patio, and the pleasure of starting your day at a genuine Hollywood institution. We prefer breakfast or lunch, leaving the evening open for one of the city’s outstanding restaurants.
Late Morning: House of Dior and Rodeo Drive
After breakfast, head to Rodeo Drive for one of the most spectacular additions to Beverly Hills shopping.
The House of Dior Beverly Hills opened in 2025 at 323 North Rodeo Drive, introducing a remarkable flagship to one of the world’s most famous luxury shopping streets.
Designed by Peter Marino, the four-story building features an undulating limestone façade, a monumental staircase, and a lush three-story interior garden created with landscape architect Peter Wirtz.
Inside, guests can explore women’s and men’s fashion, handbags, jewelry, watches, accessories, fragrances, and Dior Maison. The building also features private shopping spaces and carefully curated artworks.
On the third floor is Monsieur Dior by Dominique Crenn, a restaurant from the celebrated French chef. Its intimate setting offers an opportunity to combine luxury fashion with an exceptional dining experience.
For travelers planning a significant purchase, we’d arrange a personal shopping appointment with a Dior advisor. The opportunity to explore the collections with dedicated attention adds another dimension to the visit.
Continue along Rodeo Drive, where established fashion houses, jewelers, and beautifully designed boutiques make for an enjoyable morning of window-shopping and discovery.
Pursuitist Take: House of Dior is our favorite recent luxury flagship in Beverly Hills. The architecture is beautiful, the collections are worth exploring, and Dominique Crenn’s restaurant makes the destination especially interesting. We’d allow time to appreciate the spectacular interiors and schedule a private appointment if shopping is a priority. It’s a memorable way to enjoy Rodeo Drive.
Afternoon: Contemporary Art or a Luxurious Spa Escape
Beverly Hills has an impressive art scene, and we’d make time for a visit to Gagosian at 456 North Camden Drive, a short walk from Rodeo Drive.
The internationally recognized gallery presents changing exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, including photography, painting, and sculpture.
The exhibitions change throughout the year, so we’d check the current program before visiting.
For travelers who prefer a quieter afternoon, return to the hotel for a spa treatment or a little California sunshine.
At Hotel Bel-Air, enjoy the gardens and heated pool. At The Maybourne, visit the spa or settle in for cocktails at Dante. Guests at The Beverly Hills Hotel can spend the afternoon beside its famous pool.
Pursuitist Tip: Gagosian Beverly Hills generally operates Tuesday through Saturday. Confirm current exhibitions, hours, and visitor arrangements before stopping by.
Pursuitist Take: We love pairing Beverly Hills shopping with an unexpected art discovery. A beautiful gallery, an outstanding boutique, and a wonderful lunch can easily fill an afternoon. We’d leave time to enjoy the hotel afterward, particularly when staying somewhere as special as Hotel Bel-Air.
Evening: Dinner at Funke in Beverly Hills
For the first evening, reserve dinner at Funke, chef Evan Funke’s ambitious Italian restaurant at 9388 South Santa Monica Boulevard.
The multilevel restaurant celebrates regional Italian cooking and the craft of handmade pasta, with an elegant dining room, a glass-enclosed pasta laboratory, and a striking rooftop cocktail bar.
Funke’s dedication to traditional pasta-making is central to the experience. The kitchen explores distinctive regional shapes and preparations, drawing inspiration from Italian cooks and artisans who have preserved these techniques for generations.
The atmosphere is lively, fashionable, and distinctly Beverly Hills. It’s an appealing choice for couples or friends who enjoy a social dining room and thoughtful Italian cooking.
After dinner, head upstairs to Bar Funke, where the rooftop features a luminous pink quartz bar, greenery, and views across Beverly Hills.
Pursuitist Tip: Funke currently releases dining reservations seven days ahead at 9 a.m. Pacific for parties of eight or fewer. Changes and cancellations should be made at least 24 hours in advance, and dining room no-shows may incur a $50-per-person fee. Review the restaurant’s current terms when reserving.
Bar Funke welcomes walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis for cocktails and lighter fare. Rooftop dining reservations are also available through Resy, weather permitting.
Pursuitist Take: Funke earns its place on our list for the complete evening. We love the focus on handmade pasta, the beautiful interiors, and the chance to finish with cocktails on the rooftop. The restaurant is expensive, and opinions about the value of individual dishes are mixed, so we’d order thoughtfully. For a lively Beverly Hills night out, it remains a compelling choice. We’ll save the elaborate tasting menu for tomorrow.
Day 2: Melrose Place, Exclusive Boutiques, and Three-Michelin-Star Dining
Morning: Discover the Best Luxury Boutiques in West Hollywood
For our second morning, head to Melrose Place and the surrounding streets of West Hollywood.
This is one of our favorite shopping neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Beautiful architecture, independent retailers, and influential designer labels give the area a distinctive personality.
Recent flagship openings have brought fresh energy to the neighborhood, joining several longtime luxury favorites. We’d prioritize the following boutiques for a memorable morning of shopping and discovery.
Proenza Schouler: A West Coast Flagship
Proenza Schouler opened its first West Coast flagship at 8424 Melrose Place in 2026.
The boutique features custom plaster finishes, onyx stone, glass display shelving, and a floating walnut desk. The intimate interiors reflect the fashion house’s evolving creative direction under Rachel Scott.
Private shopping appointments are available for guests interested in exploring the collections with personal assistance.
Pursuitist Take: This is one of the most exciting recent fashion openings in Los Angeles. We love the sophisticated design and intimate atmosphere, which make shopping feel personal. We’d book an appointment and give ourselves time to explore the collections.
The Row: Understated California Luxury
Just a short walk away, The Row at 8440 Melrose Place offers a wonderfully understated approach to luxury.
Founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, the label is known for exceptional materials, beautifully considered tailoring, and sophisticated accessories that favor craftsmanship and restraint.
The Los Angeles flagship reflects that philosophy, with a residential atmosphere and architectural setting that make browsing particularly enjoyable.
Pursuitist Take: The Row is our pick for travelers who appreciate quiet luxury and beautiful materials. The collections are refined, the store is elegant, and the experience rewards a slower pace. We’d visit alongside Proenza Schouler for two very different expressions of contemporary American fashion.
Khaite: Contemporary American Fashion
Khaite opened its Los Angeles flagship in 2025 at 8409 Melrose Avenue, on the corner of Melrose Place.
Designed by Griffin Frazen, the boutique features large windows, sculptural materials, sliding glass screens, and carefully considered displays.
The space includes an evolving selection of pieces exclusive to the Melrose location, giving fashion enthusiasts another reason to visit in person.
Pursuitist Take: Khaite is a wonderful addition to a serious luxury shopping afternoon. We appreciate its distinctive aesthetic, architectural setting, and store-exclusive selections. For travelers interested in contemporary fashion and investment pieces, we’d include it alongside The Row and Proenza Schouler.
Good to know: Proenza Schouler and The Row are closed Sundays, while Khaite offers Sunday afternoon hours. Saturday is the most convenient day to visit all three boutiques.
Late Morning: Maxfield, a Los Angeles Fashion Institution
Continue to Maxfield at 8825 Melrose Avenue, one of Los Angeles’ most influential fashion and design destinations.
Founded by Tommy Perse in 1969, Maxfield helped bring international designers including Prada, Comme des Garçons, and Yohji Yamamoto to Los Angeles.
Today, the retailer offers an adventurous selection of established luxury labels, emerging designers, vintage fashion, rare books, jewelry, collectible furniture, and unusual objects.
Its Jean Prouvé Structure Nomade adds another architectural attraction, having hosted installations and collaborations with influential fashion houses and designers.
The separate Maxfield Gallery across Melrose Avenue presents collectible design and changing exhibitions, with access available by appointment.
Pursuitist Tip: Maxfield’s main boutique welcomes shoppers during its published hours. Gallery visits are by appointment. Contact the store about current installations, designer collaborations, and private shopping experiences.
Pursuitist Take: Maxfield is essential for serious fashion enthusiasts visiting Los Angeles. We love its willingness to champion interesting designers, unusual objects, and collectible pieces. The changing collections mean there is always something new to discover. We’d arrange a gallery appointment if an exhibition catches our attention and leave plenty of time to explore the main store.
Afternoon: H.Lorenzo’s West Hollywood Flagship
For another exciting fashion destination, visit the H.Lorenzo flagship at 8801 Beverly Boulevard.
The 9,000-square-foot store combines menswear, womenswear, art, and architecture in a beautifully designed space from Oliviero Arch Baldini.
Japanese-inspired design and thoughtfully curated collections create a gallery-like atmosphere, with a focus on established and emerging fashion talent.
H.Lorenzo has long been associated with adventurous luxury fashion, and the flagship gives the retailer an ambitious setting for its collections and cultural programming.
Complimentary valet parking is offered at the flagship, a welcome convenience after exploring Melrose Place.
Pursuitist Tip: Check the flagship’s current schedule for special events, collaborations, and new collections. Its regular weekend hours make it a convenient final shopping stop.
Pursuitist Take: H.Lorenzo is one of the most interesting additions to Los Angeles luxury shopping. We love the architecture, experimental fashion, and attention to emerging talent. We’d rank it alongside Maxfield as an essential stop for travelers who enjoy discovering fashion beyond the familiar designer names.
Late Afternoon: A Little California Sunshine
After exploring the boutiques, we’d return to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.
At The Maybourne, eligible hotel guests and spa members can enjoy the rooftop pool. At The Beverly Hills Hotel, settle into a poolside cabana. At Hotel Bel-Air, wander through the gardens or enjoy a treatment before dinner.
Los Angeles has plenty of wonderful places to discover, but we wouldn’t fill every hour with appointments.
Pursuitist Take: One of the pleasures of staying at an exceptional hotel is enjoying it. We’d happily trade another shopping stop for a relaxing afternoon by the pool, a spa treatment, or a cocktail with a beautiful view. It’s a wonderful way to recharge before a memorable evening of fine dining.
Evening: Dinner at Somni, Los Angeles’ Extraordinary Chef’s Counter
For the culinary highlight of our Los Angeles weekend, reserve dinner at Somni in West Hollywood.
Chef Aitor Zabala’s intimate restaurant holds three Michelin stars in the 2026 California guide, placing it among the state’s most accomplished dining destinations.
The experience centers on a 14-seat chef’s counter, where diners enjoy a sequence of more than 20 courses inspired by Spanish culinary traditions, California ingredients, and contemporary techniques.
Somni’s approach is imaginative and highly technical, with carefully staged presentations and the opportunity to watch the kitchen team at work.
Even the arrival is part of the experience. Guests begin with a few bites on the patio, weather permitting, before moving inside for the chef’s-counter tasting.
Pursuitist Tip: Somni is a significant culinary splurge. Recent reservation and dining reports have listed the chef’s-counter menu at $600 per person, with a required beverage pairing beginning at $145. That brings the reported minimum to approximately $745 per guest before tax and gratuity. Somni’s published FAQ still lists a $495 menu price, so confirm the complete amount shown at checkout before booking.
The experience typically lasts two to two and a half hours. Reservations are generally released approximately one month in advance. Check Somni’s official booking calendar for the current release schedule rather than assuming tables become available at a particular hour.
Under the restaurant’s published policy, cancellations made at least seven days before the reservation qualify for a full refund; later cancellations are nonrefundable. Review the applicable terms before booking.
Important dietary restriction: Somni currently cannot accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions because of its tasting-menu format. The restaurant also asks that children under 12 not attend. Contact its reservations team with any questions before purchasing a reservation.
For guests seeking greater privacy, Somni also offers a private Cellar Experience in its wine-cellar-adjacent dining room, accommodating groups of up to six. Reservations and pricing are available through the restaurant.
Pursuitist Take: Somni is our first choice for an extraordinary Los Angeles dining experience. The intimate counter, imaginative cooking, and culinary theater give the evening a real sense of occasion. The price is substantial, and the lengthy tasting format is best suited to adventurous diners who enjoy being surprised. For a major celebration, we’d happily make Somni the centerpiece of the weekend.
More Exceptional Los Angeles Restaurants Worth Considering
Los Angeles has an extraordinary dining scene, and several restaurants deserve consideration if Somni is unavailable or your interests lean in another direction.
Providence: Three-Michelin-Star Seafood Dining
Providence, from chef Michael Cimarusti, remains one of Los Angeles’ leading fine-dining restaurants.
The Hollywood restaurant earned its third Michelin star in 2025 and retained the distinction in the 2026 California guide.
Its tasting menus focus on exceptional seafood, careful technique, and elegant presentations, supported by an ambitious wine program.
Pursuitist Take: We’d choose Providence for travelers who appreciate a classic special-occasion dinner, exceptional seafood, and polished service. Somni has the edge for culinary theater and an intimate counter experience, while Providence offers a more traditional luxury dining room.
Kato: Contemporary Taiwanese-Inspired Fine Dining
Kato at ROW DTLA earned its second Michelin star in the 2026 California guide.
Chef Jon Yao draws inspiration from his Taiwanese heritage and Los Angeles upbringing, creating a distinctive tasting menu that combines bold flavors, carefully chosen ingredients, and refined technique.
The main dining room tasting menu has recently been listed at $325 per person, with a shorter $185 bar tasting menu. The restaurant also applies an operational fee. Confirm menu prices and applicable fees before booking.
The bar experience provides a shorter alternative for diners who want a taste of Kato’s approach without committing to the complete dining room menu. Bar guests must be at least 21, and dietary restrictions vary by reservation format.
Pursuitist Take: Kato is one of our strongest recommendations for adventurous diners interested in contemporary Los Angeles cooking. We’d build a separate Arts District evening around it rather than squeeze it into a crowded afternoon. The abbreviated bar tasting is an interesting option for travelers who prefer a shorter dining experience.
Hayato: Intimate Japanese Kaiseki
Hayato at ROW DTLA offers an intimate Japanese kaiseki experience from chef Brandon Hayato Go.
The two-Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its seasonal approach, traditional Japanese culinary techniques, and exceptionally focused dining format.
Reservations are limited, making careful advance planning essential.
Pursuitist Take: Hayato is our recommendation for travelers who appreciate Japanese culinary traditions and an intimate dining experience. The precise cooking and close connection to the chef’s work make it a compelling alternative to Los Angeles’ more theatrical tasting menus. We’d reserve it for a dedicated evening downtown.
Lielle and Marée: Two Ways to Enjoy Contemporary California Cooking
Lielle, at 9575 West Pico Boulevard, is one of Los Angeles’ most interesting recent fine-dining arrivals.
Chef Marcus Jernmark earned a Michelin star in 2026 for his thoughtful approach to California ingredients, drawing on contemporary European techniques and his Scandinavian culinary background.
The intimate dining room sits below street level, with a concise four-course tasting menu. Recent published pricing has been $150 per person before supplements and additional charges, although the menu and price can change with the seasons.
For a more spontaneous evening, consider Marée, Jernmark’s French-Californian bistro located upstairs.
Its à la carte menu, wine program, and lively atmosphere offer a relaxed alternative to Lielle’s tasting-menu experience. Marée also welcomes walk-ins, subject to availability.
Pursuitist Take: Lielle is a wonderful choice for travelers who appreciate inventive cooking without committing to an elaborate tasting menu. We particularly like the intimate setting and focused four-course format. Marée is an appealing option when we’re in the mood for an excellent dinner and a good bottle of wine, with the freedom to order exactly what sounds delicious.
For a Classic California Experience: Nobu Malibu
One restaurant that deserves a place in any luxury Los Angeles conversation is Nobu Malibu.
Overlooking Surfrider Beach and Malibu Pier, the restaurant combines Nobu Matsuhisa’s Japanese-Peruvian cuisine with one of Southern California’s most memorable oceanfront settings.
Signature dishes include Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño, and Rock Shrimp Tempura.
A table near the Pacific is especially appealing at sunset, although availability is limited and the drive to Malibu can take considerable time depending on traffic.
Pursuitist Tip: Reservations are generally accepted up to one calendar month in advance. Contact Nobu Malibu directly or consult its official reservation page for current booking options. Guests staying at Nobu Ryokan Malibu receive preferred reservation assistance through the concierge.
Pursuitist Take: Nobu Malibu remains one of our favorite oceanfront dining experiences in Southern California. The setting is extraordinary, and the signature dishes have earned their reputation. We’d recommend it for a Malibu getaway or a longer Los Angeles visit. For this Beverly Hills weekend, we’d prioritize Somni and Funke and save the coast for another adventure.
The Most Exclusive Los Angeles Experiences Worth Pursuing
Los Angeles has a fascinating private side, from appointment-only designer showrooms and collectible art to intimate dining experiences and members-only retreats.
For us, the best luxury experiences offer something genuinely worthwhile: exceptional service, rare craftsmanship, beautiful surroundings, or access to a collection with knowledgeable guidance.
Private Shopping Appointments
House of Dior and Proenza Schouler offer personal shopping appointments, which we’d recommend for travelers making significant purchases or interested in exploring special collections.
Maxfield offers personal shopping assistance, while Maxfield Gallery is available by appointment for collectors and design enthusiasts.
For a particularly special purchase, we’d contact the boutique in advance to discuss current collections, available appointments, and any private services.
Private Clubs and Discreet Retreats
Los Angeles is home to exclusive private clubs, including San Vicente Bungalows in West Hollywood.
Access is restricted to eligible members, guests, and other visitors authorized under the club’s current arrangements. A hotel concierge request does not guarantee entry.
For most travelers, we’d prioritize an exceptional hotel, a wonderful restaurant, and a few private shopping experiences rather than build the weekend around access that may be unavailable.
Luxury Spa Experiences
Hotel Bel-Air and The Maybourne offer two compelling wellness options.
Hotel Bel-Air is especially appealing for romance and a quiet garden setting, while The Spa at The Maybourne provides extensive facilities in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Pursuitist Take: We’d choose one memorable spa experience and leave time to enjoy the facilities. A private couples’ treatment at Hotel Bel-Air or a leisurely afternoon at The Spa at The Maybourne can be a wonderful highlight of a luxury weekend.
The Pursuitist Final Word
Los Angeles continues to find new ways to surprise us. Its legendary hotels are as appealing as ever, while contemporary fashion, exciting restaurants, and ambitious cultural experiences bring fresh energy to the city.
For a memorable luxury weekend, we’d stay at Hotel Bel-Air for romance, The Beverly Hills Hotel for classic Hollywood glamour, or The Maybourne for its excellent location and rooftop dining.
On the first day, enjoy breakfast at the Polo Lounge, explore the spectacular House of Dior on Rodeo Drive, visit a gallery, and reserve dinner at Funke. The following day belongs to Melrose Place, with stops at Proenza Schouler, The Row, Khaite, Maxfield, and H.Lorenzo before an extraordinary evening at Somni.
For serious food lovers, Providence, Kato, Hayato, and Lielle offer additional reasons to plan a return trip. Marée adds a relaxed option for an excellent evening out, while Nobu Malibu is worth saving for a dedicated coastal escape.
We’d resist trying to squeeze Malibu, downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills into the same 48 hours. There is already plenty to enjoy, and a luxurious weekend deserves a little breathing room.
Make the reservations that matter, leave time for the hotel pool, and enjoy the California sunshine. The City of Angels always gives us another reason to return.
For more inspiring city escapes, explore our 48 Hours in New York City luxury itinerary and our 48 Hours in Chicago luxury weekend guide, both part of the Pursuitist Passport series.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luxury Travel in Los Angeles
What is the best luxury hotel in Los Angeles?
Pursuitist recommends Hotel Bel-Air for privacy and romance, The Beverly Hills Hotel for classic Hollywood glamour, and The Maybourne Beverly Hills for luxury shopping, excellent spa facilities, and location. Each offers a distinctly different experience.
Where is the best luxury shopping in Los Angeles?
Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is home to major luxury fashion and jewelry houses, including House of Dior. For more distinctive boutiques, visit Melrose Place and the surrounding West Hollywood streets, where you’ll find Proenza Schouler, The Row, Khaite, Maxfield, and H.Lorenzo.
Which Los Angeles restaurants have three Michelin stars?
Somni in West Hollywood and Providence in Los Angeles hold three Michelin stars in the 2026 California Michelin Guide. Somni features an intimate chef’s-counter experience, while Providence specializes in refined seafood dining. Kato, Hayato, Vespertine, and Mélisse are among the greater Los Angeles area’s two-Michelin-starred restaurants in the same guide.
How far in advance should I reserve Somni and Funke?
Somni generally makes reservations available approximately one month ahead, while Funke currently opens reservations seven days in advance. Check each restaurant’s official booking calendar for current release schedules, menu prices, dietary requirements, and cancellation policies.
Do I need a car for a luxury weekend in Los Angeles?
A private car, rental vehicle, or rideshare service is useful for getting around Los Angeles. Travelers staying in central Beverly Hills can explore Rodeo Drive and nearby boutiques on foot, while trips to West Hollywood, Malibu, and other neighborhoods generally require transportation.
Editor’s note: Pursuitist reviewed hotel amenities, restaurant awards, published prices, reservation policies, boutique locations, and visitor information in November 2026. Menus, prices, operating hours, and booking terms can change. Confirm current arrangements directly with each venue before visiting.
