A guide to the vibrant scene of West Hollywood

It goes without saying that there’s much more to West Hollywood than a few iconic letters on a hill. A sunny shopping Mecca brimming with gourmet chefs, cutting edge cocktail bars, and glamorous architecture to match, West Hollywood is truly home to the stars and a destination that takes holiday indulgence to new extremes.

Shop ‘till you drop

No trip to WeHo would be complete without a full-blown, inhibition-free shopping excursion along the neighbourhood’s iconic tree-lined boulevards. From Melrose Avenue to Beverly Boulevard, you’ll be faced with everything from the world’s hottest trends and designer labels to the quirkiest local brands. It’s important to remember you’re on holiday and give in to the tantalising temptation to spend, spend, spend.

Dine al fresco

Self-proclaimed as ‘the sexy garden restaurant’, WeHo’s Vander Pump is the place to experience the gourmet glamour of this neighbourhood’s celebrated foodie scene. Located in the heart of WeHo, here you can dine amongst 100 year-old olive trees, twinkling with lanterns that hang from their intricately spindled branches. With the calming trickle of the antique fountain intermingling with the hum of chatter that surrounds, enjoy WeHo’s fabulously eclectic cuisine from the freshest salmon tartare to the creamiest lobster and asparagus rigatone.

Iconic views

Now, the question of questions, how best to catch a shot of that iconic Hollywood sign to show off to all back home? Only a short drive from West Hollywood, the beautiful, art-deco landmark Griffith Observatory offers picture-perfect views of the sign and across the entire city of LA, be it glittering with late city nights or aglow with the California sun. Fancy a drink with your view? Mondrian Hotel’s Skybar offers cocktails in Californian style – think poolside, teak decks, blooming vines and swaying trees.

Stop for a pick-me up

It would be criminal to visit WeHo without sampling at least a handful of California’s delectable wines. Head over to V, a unique wine tasting room where you can learn about the state’s celebrated offerings and also pick up a bottle or two to take home. All of the products carried by V are unique to the West Hollywood, Los Angeles and surrounding areas, giving you a truly distinct idea of the flavour and delicacy the region has to offer.

Tom Marchant is Co-founder of Black Tomato.

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