Steeped in cinematic history, Culver City is a bustling haven nestled amidst Los Angeles’ city limits. For decades, this Westside hub has been home to production lots for the likes of MGM and Sony Pictures, but in recent years, Angelenos have settled down here, with renowned restaurants and bars following suit.
Hospitality groups are beginning to expand outside of Hollywood and Santa Monica, as well, moving south into the heart of screenland; specifically Proper Hospitality Group, which recently added the iconic Culver Hotel to The Collective: a burgeoning portfolio of design-centric, independent hotels operated and managed by the Los Angeles-based company.
In the heart of Downtown Culver City, The Culver Hotel is a flatiron-style building that holds national landmark status. Upon completing construction and design by the visionary City founder Harry H. Culver along with architects Curtlett & Beelman––the city’s pioneers of luxurious Beaux-Arts architecture––the hotel initially opened its doors in 1924.
Over 80 decades later, the property was acquired and reimagined by hotelier Maya Mallick, who breathed new life into the 46-room boutique hotel, drawing inspiration from European ambiance and decor, as well as the distinct elegance of the 1920s. Each of the rooms and event spaces boast rare vintage furniture outfitted in sumptuous textiles, accented by thought-provoking art pieces. The creative spirit of The Culver Hotel is illuminated by the in-house gallery, which showcases works by both established and emerging artists.
Lillie’s is the centrally-located bistro, which takes shape throughout three distinct spaces––the grand lobby, dining room, and outdoor garden. The menu fuses French haute cuisine and California’s seasonal bounty. Working in tandem with local farms and purveyors, the provenant and seasonal menu includes expansive raw bar options, as well as a robust selection of biodynamic and natural wines.
The food and beverage offerings are accompanied by the reintroduction of The Culver Hotel’s signature live music lineup. Speakeasy bar and private lounge The Velvet Room has also been introduced as another level of entertainment to this inimitable stay.
The revitalization of the storied Culver Hotel reaffirms its status as a timeless mainstay, seamlessly bringing Culver City’s cinematic history into the modern era.
Top Takeaways
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: This hotel enters a new era with the help of Proper Hospitality, within a cinematically-historic city in the Los Angeles locale.
Food + Drink: Lillie’s is the centrally-located bistro, which takes shape within the grand lobby, dining room, and outdoor garden. Live music complements the seasonal menu and natural wine offerings, while a speakeasy lounge and bar are accessible in the evenings.
Amenities: Fitness center; Meeting and event spaces; Restaurant & bar; Private parking garage; Live music; Art gallery
Any personal neighborhood recs?: The Culver Hotel’s central location makes it easy for discerning travelers to become immersed within the fabric of Culver City’s vibrant day-to-night life. Grab lunch or any daily necessities from the famed Erewhon, then share a bottle over French bistro plates at Simonette at dinnertime.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: What’s old is new again: The Culver Hotel’s afternoon tea service is finally back and better than ever. Indulge in a selection of artisanal hot teas, savory finger sandwiches, and delicate desserts. Those in search of something a bit boozier can opt for a glass of bubbly or a garden-fresh cocktail.
What’s nearby? The Culver Steps; The Culver Studios; Amazon Studios; Woodbine Park; Stoneview Nature Center; Circle Park
Rooms: The hotel offers 46 guest rooms.
Pricing: Rates start at $289/night.
Closest Airport: Los Angeles International Airport
Other articles you may like:
