Combining vintage charm and unpretentious service, the boutique hotel gives the bed-and-breakfast concept a stylish makeover
Brentwood, the fancy neighbourhood on the west side of Los Angeles, has always been a celebrity magnet. A-listers like LeBron James, Gwyneth Paltrow, Arnold Schwarzenegger and even former US vice-president Kamala Harris are among its former and current residents.
In spite of its cachet, however, it’s never been a place where visitors to Los Angeles tend to stay. Most travellers opt for more well-known areas such as Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, or beach enclaves like Santa Monica.
Le Petit Pali Brentwood is surrounded by lush greenery. Photo: Handout
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Late last year, Palisociety, the California-based chain known for properties such as Palihouse West Hollywood and Palihotel Melrose, opened Le Petit Pali Brentwood. Located on West Sunset Boulevard, a short drive from the Getty Center and Bel Air, the 25-room property provides a luxe take on the traditional bed-and-breakfast. Conceived as a modern-day inn, the hotel stays true to Palisociety’s approach to luxury. Think vintage-inspired design, informal but impeccable service, and plenty of charm.
The property occupies the premises of the former Brentwood Inn, a motor lodge that first opened in 1947 as the Brentwood Motor Hotel. Built around an open-air courtyard awash with lush greenery, the hotel has plenty of outdoor spaces, including patios with comfy seating, garden lounges and parking spots for those driving. Green wooden fences, Adirondack chairs, striped umbrellas and brick walls give the surroundings a retro vibe, which extends to the lovely interiors. Covered in striped wallpaper and adorned with mismatched textiles, colourful furniture, wicker baskets and sisal rugs, the guest rooms are welcoming and warm, while the reception area greets visitors with a complimentary candy bar, a well-edited library and a brick-clad fireplace.
The cosy reception area of Le Petit Pali Brentwood is a treasure trove of artworks and vintage furnishings. Photo: Handout
Although the location is slightly off the beaten track, it makes the perfect base from which to explore the west side of Los Angeles, including popular spots such as Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Those who want to enjoy the neighbourhood, however, will find plenty to do. Quaint Brentwood Country Mart is home to a wide range of stores, from the Los Angeles outpost of Goop – the lifestyle brand founded by Gwyneth Paltrow – to independent bookstore Diesel and a branch of American men’s clothier Sid Mashburn. Also at the Country Mart, upscale gourmet store Farm serves casual fare for breakfast and lunch, while Reddi Chick specialises in rotisserie chicken.
The hotel doesn’t have any dining venues, but you’re spoiled for choice with nearby eateries such as a branch of famous Japanese sushi restaurant Katsuya and an outpost of Italian favourite Jon & Vinny’s.
An outdoor lounge at Le Petit Pali Brentwood provides a spot for guests to relax or enjoy breakfast. Photo: Handout
Weekend visitors should make a beeline for Brentwood Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Sunday, and has plenty of produce and food stands to cater to everyone’s tastes.
