Who knew there was a 26-acre, 9-hole golf course only 30 minutes south on the 405 in Manhattan Beach? Well, there is and its surrounded by the stylish inaugural Autograph Collection Hotel the westdrift.
The open and airy lobby is not your typical corporate hotel and best described as bi-coastal chic by San Francisco based EDG Design. The East coast is represented by the staff in seersucker suits that are checking in guests behind the custom driftwood receptions desks.
Beyond that viewpoint, massive wooden columns wrapped partially in leather – to represent the waterline, were constructed in the lobby to replicated the historic Manhattan Beach pier. Known for his elemental water paintings, artwork by Sausalito photorealist Eric Zener was commissioned for the property and also sets the tone for paying homage to the California coast.
Another striking conversation starter, is the golf tee piece, stretching the length of a lobby wall with more than 17,664 multicolored tees.
Just off the lobby is indoor-outdoor Jute Coastal Bar + Kitchen with chef Octavio Sabado, formerly of Jose Andres’ famous Bazaar at the SLS, at the helm. The menu highlights today’s growing dietary needs (or restrictions) with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan twists on world-class dishes, such as Beet Wellington, Cauliflower Steak, and Daikon Scallops. And, you must order the house Manhattan cocktail.
After lunch, if you’re not hitting the golf course, there is a CrossFit-inspired fitness center, pool with luxury cabanas, and close proximity to downtown Manhattan Beach.
Now that we are entering into fall - our real summer season, the hotel is unveiling a series of new offerings and amenities for guests to soak up the endless summer.
- westdrift beach club – let the westdrift do the schlepping. Chairs, umbrellas, beach toys, picnics and more can be delivered directly to the beach and will await guests upon arrival.
- Sunset beach cycles – Every Thursday at 5:30pm, guests are invited to take a spin on one of the hotel’s custom Solé Beach Cruisers and join in on a guided beach ride with a member of the concierge team
- Glo Golf – Sunsets in Manhattan Beach are pretty spectacular, but the second the sun goes down, guests can enjoy a playful and relaxed round of glo-golf on the hotel’s 9-hole course (formal golf attire is advised against – t-shirts and flip flops are welcome!)
- MB Spirits – Every Saturday from 5-6, guests and locals are invited to enjoy spirit tastings and mixology lessons in the “backyard.” Manhattan Beach and the South Bay have an incredible craft beer and distillery scene and each week, the westdrift will feature a local favorite.
- Hydration Station – for guests who may be a bit jetlagged or who may have had a little too much fun the night before, every Sunday from 8 pm-4 pm, the hotel is hosting a Solution IV pop-up, offering guests IV fluids and vitamin elixirs. www.westdrift.com
While you’re hitting the beach, pier, cruising around on a bike or shopping be sure to also visit:
The Arthur J
Chef David Lefevre’s ode to the retro-steakhouse is still a top table – or bar seat to pull up when your anywhere near the area for dinner. The cuts of meat are exceptional and if you can’t decide, order a sampler plate with Black Angus tenderloin, prime strip loin, Snake River Farms Wagyu flat iron. If you come in early (and you probably should to avoid a wait if you didn’t book in advance), you can eat in the lounge area and try the happy hour that includes a juicy burger, chilled oysters (from sister restaurant Fishing with Dynamite), or spinach and blue crab dip to keep you sipping those killer old-school martinis. If you have any room left, don’t leave without the chocolate Devil’s food cake. http://thearthurj.com/
Love & Salt
If you’re craving pasta and wood oven gourmet pizza, this place is still going strong. We love the potato gnocchi with morel mushrooms and are happy to see the duck egg with pancetta pie is still on the menu – a hit since the opening. The vibe might be a little rustic and casual but not when it comes to the comprehensive wine list. Italian favorites include a Tuscan 2014 Massto at $1,183, and the 2012 Sassicaia for $572, but not to worry, there are plenty of wines by the glass for $12 bucks as well. https://www.loveandsaltla.com/love-salt-la/
