Overview: The 49-room Mosaic Hotel in Beverly Hills revamped its look two years ago, a total transformation with a modern aesthetic throughout, including a refreshed pool deck. The hotel is part of the Gemstone Hotels collection and a member of the Preferred Hotels network.
The Location: The hotel is near Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards, in the same neighborhood as the far more expensive Peninsula, Beverly Hilton and soon-to-open Waldorf Astoria hotels. A stone’s throw from Beverly Hills’ shopping district, this is one of L.A.’s most competitive hotel zones, yet the Mosaic’s address feels delightfully residential and tranquil.
The Room: Preferred king, Room 215. I booked a standard king on the Preferred Hotels website, and on arrival I was upgraded to the slightly larger preferred king (a standard perk of using the Preferred Hotels loyalty program). The bedroom was spacious and technologically modern, with bedside USB charging stations and an electronic do-not-disturb sign. The bathroom was tiny but nicely appointed with Bulgari toiletries, soft towels and plush bathrobes. The bed linens and pillows felt brand new. And the Nespresso machine is replenished with several complimentary pods daily.
Food and beverage: The hotel runs a small restaurant and bar in the lobby, which also serves the adjacent pool area as well as room service. On the Saturday morning of this review, every one of the restaurant’s eight tables was occupied, and there was only one waiter on staff to handle the entire hotel (pulling double duty for the restaurant and room service). Needless to say, service was not the highlight. Of course, nobody stays at the Mosaic because of its restaurant. There are countless places to eat nearby, and a Starbucks just around the corner. But the hotel should at least take breakfast more seriously, since that’s the one time when hotel guests are most likely to use the facility. It’s a big strike against the hotel, but not a deal-breaker.
Wi-Fi: Fast and free
Public spaces: The hotel’s biggest draw is the pool, which is surrounded with comfortable cabanas and chaise lounges, along with a towering wall of (faux) greenery. If the weather is pleasant, this is where you will want to spend your downtime. The hotel also advertises a “gym,” but calling it a gym is a stretch. It’s a depressing basement closet with a single treadmill, elliptical and a bike. If you want to jog, you’re better off outside.
Service: While service in the restaurant was incomprehensibly lacking, hospitality at the front desk and among the bell staff was gracious and welcoming.
Cost: $365
Bottom line: The restaurant debacle aside, the Mosaic exudes charm. And considering the neighborhood and quality of accommodations in the revamped rooms, the price is a steal.
This article originally appeared in the Orange County Register. To view more of my work for the Register, check out the archives. For more dining and travel inspiration, I invite you to follow me and join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
