This brunch was really one for the books! The Beverly Hills Hotel has been a landmark hospitality destination for over a century. In it’s current iteration, it proudly belongs to the Dorchester Collection (whose properties I online stalk on a regular basis).

We returned from a trip with less than a day before my husband flew out again.

To make the most of our time, we booked an overnight stay near LAX and drifted off dreaming of tomorrow’s brunch.

Booking a brunch was the perfect introduction to this historic hotel. Stepping under those iconic stripes I immediately understood the allure. She’s a classic for a reason.

Just off the lobby is The Polo Lounge, a haunt for industry insiders. The interior is stately and refined with overstuffed private booths, paneled mirrors, and a fully stocked bar. It’s easy to imagine Hollywood’s elite whiling away their nights here.

But the adjacent garden is where everyone wants to be. An impossibly lush oasis in the heart of Los Angeles this petit footprint is a little slice of paradise.

Pink and green hues, tropical upholstery, and domed awnings make it extra special.

Travel had kept us awake until well past midnight so my husband was desperate for a coffee. As usual, I ordered matcha. Always iced, always with oat milk.

I regularly prioritize brunch so I’ve had more than my fair share of complex and indulgent morning dishes. However, I find the staples are often overlooked.

On this occasion, I opted for oatmeal sweetened with dates and chalk full of blueberries, banana, and almonds.

Of course, there’s room for a little treat! I paired my oatmeal with a flaky, chocolate croissant. Frequent readers know this is my go-to pastry fix.

We wrapped with enough time for a quick stroll on Rodeo Drive. If you can manage a visit on a weekday it’s far superior to the impatient and stifling weekend crowds.

Goyard boutiques are few and far between in North America so even with a lengthy line, it’s usually worth the wait!

Don’t miss the Ralph Lauren flagship (be sure to wander upstairs for their homeware).

My pick of the bunch? I spent most of my time drooling in the Schiaparelli boutique tucked inside Neiman Marcus.

Next time you touch down in sunny LA, I can’t recommend a pairing of The Polo Lounge and Schiaparelli enough. It might be the ultimate duo. Be sure to book in advance, especially if you hope to snag a coveted outdoor table. Happy brunching!