Standard Hotel   

8300 W Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90069
323-650-9090
www.standardhotel.com/index-flash.html

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At the end of the last millennium, the architectural shell of a former motor hotel and run-down retirement home was reinvented and resurrected as the coolest budget-chic address in hotelier Andre Balazs's chain, The Standard on Sunset. To appreciate The Standard one must lounge poolside on an 80-something degree LA afternoon. Ripped model types play Ping-Pong shirtless as girls who still tan oil up while drinking fruity cocktails and chitchatting on their mobiles. In the background, less fit people snack on the hotel's delicious cuisine and watch the bathing magnificence and incredible LA skyline, in that order. Angelenos enjoy The Standard just as much as visiting guests, as the 24-hour diner, lounge and affordable barbershop lay open for the enjoyment of all. From the live model that graces the picture window behind the reception counter to the cute room-service staff that brings guests breakfast in bed, The Standard makes and defines the very essence of budget-chic. For those making a temporary home of The Standard, note should be taken that it is definitely a party hotel. The lobby is by far one of the hippest locations to eat or drink in LA. There is almost always music and partyers, as the main lobby features a comfy seating area complete with shag carpeting and an adjoining lounge. The restaurant is actually more of a high-class diner serving up gourmet meals like simple sushi or elaborate red meat concoctions. Rooms overlook directions that are either noisy or noisier. Sunset Strip-facing rooms offer taxicab crashes and endless honking while city-view rooms overhear the screams and splashes of the rear pool. If given a choice, opt for a city-view/pool room. Most rooms offer spacious balconies and retro interiors -- imagine Judy Jetson in her awkward teen phase. The toiletries are simple and uber-minimalist as well as the art, if your room is fortunate to have some. While the hotel is budget-chic, the valet is the most expensive part of The Standard stay, making validation a necessity unless you're planning on financing your parking. -- Michael Martin