Review / The Hollywood Grande: why the former Thompson Hollywood hotel is such a chic city stay
Marriott Bonvoy recently took over the buzzy Thompson Hollywood from Hyatt, rebranding it as The Hollywood Grande – here’s what to know
The property is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, a portfolio of independent hotels with a boutique feel and a distinctive point of view that eschews the cookie-cutter approach of most chains.
Not much has changed since the repositioning, which means that long-time fans of the former Thompson Hollywood needn’t worry. Everything that Thompson is known for – great design, informal yet attentive service and a cool vibe – is still there.
Located a short walk from touristy spots such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL’s Chinese Theatre and the famous intersection of Hollywood and Highland – from where you can catch a glimpse of the Hollywood sign – the property attracts stylish locals and in-the-know visitors to Los Angeles.
Bar Lis, located on the rooftop, is one of the city’s most popular hang-outs for after-work drinks. Offering panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills and beyond, the bar provides a selection of great cocktails in an outdoor/indoor setting with lounge seating and decor reminiscent of the South of France in the 1960s.
Offering cuisine inspired by the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, the eatery is helmed by Chef Wes Avila, who named the restaurant after the Mayan word for “afresh”, reflecting his unique take on the region’s vibrant culinary heritage. Grab one of the house’s signature cocktails in the tropical-inspired Aztec garden before feasting on delicacies such as potato taquitos (Yukon gold, avocado salsa, queso fresco) and lamb shank barbacoa, a melt-in-your-mouth dish of braised lamb shank, sliced red onions, pickled pearl onions, tomatillo salsa and arbol salsa.
