I’m sure if the walls could talk this hotel would fill volumes on the people and history of Beverly Hills, considered by the world to be a center of glamour and excitement. Sitting on the corner of Crescent near Burton Way, a few steps from Beverly Hills City Hall, The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Arts, and The Paley Center, this iconic hotel remains a favorite destination for vacation travelers and business people conducting meetings in “The Hills” as it is lovingly referred to by locals.

Crescent Hotel Bar

Crescent Hotel Bar

The front patio serves as their outside dining area, where guest enjoy the delicious plates of Executive Chef Diana Hernandez. Chef Hernandez has worked in some renowned kitchens; including work with Chef Lee Hefter at Wolfgang Puck’s CUT in the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Her menus are based on a premise of healthy ingredients, simple preparations and clean presentations.

Her salmon on cous cous with organic spinach and vegetables is outstanding, and a plate that is so tasteful that patrons could eat it often without ever being bored, while at the same time giving their body a pure dose of goodness. Appetizer selections are unique and include fantastic huge deep fried green olives stuffed with blue cheese, and sprinkled with sea salt. The Ahi tuna with avocado, tomato and cilantro served in hand-made crispy shells is one of the best Ahi tuna recipes I’ve tasted, and I’ve tasted a few. The vanilla bean ice cream with chocolate cake is my recommendation for a wonderful ending.

Crescent_salmonw_couscous14

Salmon with cous cous

For burger lovers they offer a medley that includes shredded port on a bun, fried chicken on a biscuit and a crescent burger. They are all unique and all delicious. They can be savored home-made chips.

The bar at The Crescent is a fun place at night, and on Thursdays they provides live entertainment to enjoy with a signature Operation Orange, or Americane Cocktail. Operation Orange cocktail is made with orange vodka, Grand Marnier, orange bitters and blood orange liquer, and the Americane cocktail is made with sparkling wine, Cointreau and elder flower liquer. They offer a full bar and wine menu, along with a collection of small plates to enjoy. 

Omelete Brekfast with Potatoes

Omelete Brekfast with Potatoes

Starting the day at The Crescent is fun as well. Complimentary coffee and rolls are waiting in the lounge, and the breakfast menu includes usual items as well as some unique egg preparations. The omelet with chicken, mushrooms and two cheeses, served with a medley of fried potatoes is outstanding. Morning in the lounge is where guests relax and read a variety of newspapers over hot coffee. It is also a friendly room where guests talk to each other.

The interior design is what I would describe as European chic, with Italian modern and antique tastefully blended. The walls are covered with amazing old Hollywood photographs that are on loan from local galleries, and they ad to the charm of the décor. My room was surprisingly quiet, and very comfortable with all the state-of-the-art toys.

Executive Chef Diana Hernandez (2nd from right) with Crescent Staff

Executive Chef Diana Hernandez (2nd from right) with Crescent Staff

 

The staff describes themselves as a family, and they work together to provide stellar service to all visitors. They are friendly, helpful and efficient. If you prefer a small European style hotel rather than a large modern property you will really love the thoughtful and personal service at The Crescent. For reservations and informations call (310) 247-0505 or visit: www.thecrescentbh.com.

 

By Bonnie Carroll