The MICHELIN Guide has introduced the first-ever MICHELIN Key awards for hotels in the U.S., establishing a new benchmark for hotel stays similar to the prestigious MICHELIN Star awarded to top restaurants.
Following an extensive four-year review of over 5,000 hotels worldwide, the guide now recognizes the finest across the country, including those in Atlanta, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, New York, Washington D.C., and of course, throughout the state of California.
The Criteria for MICHELIN Key Award
These hotels are evaluated based on five key criteria: architectural and interior design excellence, high-quality and consistent service, distinctive personality and character, value for money, and significant contribution to the local setting.
To earn a MICHELIN Key, hotels must excel in all these areas. The keys are awarded at three levels:
- One Key: Recognizes a very special stay
- Two Keys: Denotes an exceptional stay
- Three Keys: Signifies an extraordinary stay
The Los Angeles region boasts 22 hotels with MICHELIN Keys, spanning from the luxurious enclaves of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood to the beachfront retreats of Santa Monica.
Three Key Hotels:
- The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills: Known as ‘The Pink Palace,’ this iconic hotel combines history with contemporary luxury, and is a symbol of Hollywood glamour since it first opened its doors in 1912. The hotel’s distinctive pink facade and its famous bungalows have been the backdrop for countless movies and celebrity events, making it an integral part of Hollywood history.
- Hotel Bel-Air, Bel-Air: Nestled in the exclusive Bel-Air estate and surrounded by lush gardens, this historic hotel offers a tranquil oasis away from the bustle of Los Angeles. Since its opening in 1946, its secluded setting and elegant Spanish architecture have made it the go-to retreat for celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and dignitaries.
Two Key Hotels:
- Chateau Marmont, West Hollywood: A legendary retreat that’s an evergreen favorite among Hollywood stars.
- Pendry West Hollywood, West Hollywood: Modern luxury stay with killer design.
- L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills: A boutique experience emphasizing privacy and elegant design.
- The Maybourne Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills: Known for its refined, sophisticated service.
- The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills: Classic luxury at a landmark hotel.
One Key Hotels:
- Downtown LA Proper Hotel, DTLA: A vibrant mix of historic architecture and contemporary style.
- Soho Warehouse DTLA, DTLA: An exclusive club with a rustic, industrial aesthetic.
- The Aster, Hollywood: Boutique accommodations with a chic, artistic vibe.
- The Paramour Estate, Silver Lake: A mansion offering a unique, historical backdrop.
- The Prospect Hollywood, Hollywood: A fusion of Hollywood glamour and modern luxury.
- Casa Del Mar, Santa Monica: Beachside elegance with panoramic ocean views.
- Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica: A lush retreat famous for its historic fig tree. And of course, The Bungalow itself.
- Santa Monica Proper Hotel, Santa Monica: A blend of urban sophistication and coastal luxury, offering some of the best views of the city.
- Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica: A relaxed, beach house ambiance.
- The Georgian, Santa Monica: Art Deco style meets modern seaside luxury.
- Chamberlain West Hollywood, West Hollywood: Discrete luxury with a homelike atmosphere.
- Hotel 850 SVB, West Hollywood: An intimate, boutique hotel experience.
- Palihouse West Hollywood, West Hollywood: Stylish, residential-style stays.
- Soho House Holloway, West Hollywood: An exclusive haven for creatives.
- Sunset Tower Hotel, West Hollywood: Classic Hollywood elegance and a star-studded history. And have you seen their pool deck?
- The Charlie, West Hollywood: A charming retreat with English-style cottages.
For those staying at any of the MICHELIN Key-awarded hotels, taking the time to explore the city can unveil why Los Angeles remains a beloved destination, enriched by a wide range of memorable, award-winning places to escape and stay.