I am a very big fan of the feeling of escapism offered by the comfy and chic confines of a luxury hotel. It’s a quick reality getaway that is often exactly what is needed to break from the humdrum.
And that enticing experience is exactly what you get at the Fairmont Century Plaza. Step inside and setup shop at the lobby bar, called The Bar, and indulge in swanky cocktails in a relaxed and cool setting. Or make an al fresco night of it at Havana Nights—the hotel’s Cuban-inspired pop-up located outdoors at The Bar.
But if you really want to treat yourself right, dine and drink at Lumière—the elegant brasserie designed for leisurely meals and warm conversations. Driven by fresh, local ingredients, Lumière offers a taste of traditional French-inspired fare with a distinct Southern Californian take.
Aiming for a Paris meets L.A. atmosphere, the setting is just right to relax among French antiques, elaborate tilework, and brass accents warmly lit by century-old chandeliers.
During our recent visit for dinner, I started with a stiff Vesper prepared with Haku Vodka, Roku Gin and Lillet Blanc served with a lemon peel. This Vesper version, made with Japanese spirits, will kick things off right.
You can also opt for the The Dragon ‘Rita with Patron Silver Tequila, Cointreau, dragon fruit, and fresh lime if you’re more of a margarita drinker. This will definitely work too.
The setting inside Lumière is relaxed and is perfect for a glass of bubbly or wine. This is a place where you will want to enjoy a long and lazy meal.
You can’t go wrong starting with an order of a half dozen oysters served with mignonette and cocktail sauce. Likewise, an order of French staple Escargot with garlic butter, spinach, shallot, parsley, and absinthe will not disappoint. In fact, these are two perfect starters.
You can also opt for a bowl of French Onion Soup (always a favorite of mine) or the lovely Chicken Liver Mousse with olive oil jam and toasted country loaf. The mousse is actually quite lovely here. I highly recommend it.
If you loved your margarita, you may want to try the Smokin’ Passion with Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Passoã Passion Fruit Liqueur, fresh lime agave, and grapefruit soda with a tajin rim to keep the agave spirit good vibes going.
And if that Vesper really hit the spot, elevate your drinking game with the Noir Manhattan made with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Carpano Antica, Averno Amaro and black walnut bitters.
For our entrees, we went with the sensational Squid Ink Pasta made with house-made squid ink spaghetti, Santa Barbara uni butter, Dungeness crab and chili flakes. It was out-of-this-world good. We also thoroughly enjoyed the Colorado Lamb Saddle with pea puree, Thumbelina carrot, crispy chestnut and wild rice.
Our dinner at Lumière was relaxed and refined. We took our time and indulged in delicious drinks and fantastic fare. It felt like a mini yet sensational staycation.
Lumière is located in the Fairmont Century Plaza at 2025 Avenue of the Stars. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Happy Hour is offered daily from 3pm to 6pm at the bar. Call 310-424-3031.
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