The Hollywood Roosevelt

"How did it strike you on arrival?Chances are good you’ll be elbowing your way through tourists checking out the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Mann's Chinese Theater. But once inside, you’ll forget about the crowds. The recently renovated lobby is high drama, with towering ceilings, a large chandelier, columned archways, a fireplace, and a historic fountain. The hotel first opened in 1927—and actually hosted the first-ever Academy Awards, in 1929. Past guests include Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe, Clark Gable, and Charlie Chaplin. In fact, Gable and Carole Lombard used to live in what is now the three-level Penthouse Suite. (There’s also a Marilyn Suite.) What’s the crowd like?Lots of night owls who want to experience Old Hollywood up close—it's akin to being somewhere between New York City's Times Square and the Theater District. The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.The well-known design firm Yabu Pushelberg oversaw a $25 million renovation of the Tower Rooms in 2015. Expect hardwood floors, four-poster beds, boho-chic patterns, and a palette of greys and rich blue and persimmon accents, plus details like two-toned walls, and sliding barn doors that separate sleeping areas (in Deluxe rooms). Many of the Studio King Suites have amazing views of the hills and Hollywood sign. Cabana Suites—designed by Joyce Wang and Hun Aw of Waaw Design—are more mid-century in feel, done up in natural oak, ebony floors, and bronze accessories. Stay in one of these if you want to be close to the Tropicana pool, known for its multi-million dollar mural by British painter David Hockney, completed in 1988, and the newly opened, tropical-inspired Rosy Café. Also of note: rooms have two-inch thick, soundproof walls. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?I’d probably steal the Braun alarm clock, which displays the daily weather forecast, or the La Bottega custom waffle kimono robe. From the mini-bar, the Sriracha popcorn ($10) or Compartes Chocolate ($15). Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Tower bathrooms pay homage to the 1930s originals, done up in marble with black metal accents and Spanish-inspired geometric tile floor patterns. Room service: What should we order?If you’re staying at this hotel, you’re probably coming back late at night—which means crispy chicken tenders and fries will be in order. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.You may recognize the pool from a fashion shoot—it’s been featured in plenty. One summer, the hotel showed throwback films like Heathers and the Royal Tenenbaums every Tuesday night next to the pool, along with cocktails and food that were on theme with the movie. (Also, see aforementioned Hockney mural.) 25 Degrees is so-called for the temperature difference between a medium rare and well-done hamburger. Need to stave off a hangover? Head to this diner, outfitted in mahogany leather booths, miniature chandeliers, and vintage bar stools. Our pick: the Number One (caramelized onion, gorgonzola, arugula, bacon, and Thousand Island) and truffle parmesan fries. The speakeasy-style The Spare Room is set behind nondescript double doors. On the other side, you’ll find a two-lane, vintage bowling alley, plus a game parlor (featuring custom-made wooden board games) and cocktail lounge. There’s even a Monday night bowling league. The hotel recently debuted a secret music studio where big bands like to warm up before sets at the nearby Hollywood Bowl. Bottom line: Why are we picking the Roosevelt?To take advantage of the on-site nightlife and embrace the Hollywood scene—and have a quiet, stylish room to return to." - Brooke Porter Katz, Krista Simmons