When I first joined Yelp, in 2008, I had no idea why I would post anything. I soon realized this is my way of Yelping to Help. Help who? The hospitality industry and other consumers.
So, now, during these difficult times for almost everyone, that mission seems even more important. For this reason, I have made it a point to cover a wide range of venues, from low to high and after 300 reviews, I can say with some satisfaction that I have done that consistently.
Now I am turning in a slightly different direction, mostly to make myself happy first and foremost. There is enough ugliness in the world. I want to surround myself everywhere I go in beauty, kindness, and comfort. That will be the aim of my reviews for the rest of this year.
Along these lines, I have been lucky enough to visit a glittering sequence of gorgeous, uplifting, exceptional places in the past month or two. Many of them are in Beverly Hills.
I am not interested in the prestige of BH at all. My selection of places in one of Los Angeles's choicest "villages" is based on several factors: ease of parking (BH has low cost public garages on almost every block); aesthetics of the venue itself, both outside and inside; ingenuity and novelty of the offerings (menus; merchandise; entertainment, etc.); and cost/benefit ratio, i.e., value for the time and money spent. Beverly Hills offers all of this in one easily accessible spot and has made it possible to navigate their enjoyment during these stressful times with ease.
Which brings me to The Terrace. Just one look at all the photographs I and other diners have shared and you immediately grasp the beauty, care, intelligence, creativity, and high standards The Maybourne team has applied to this delightful outdoor restaurant.
The service, menu, quality of each dish and beverage, and the lovely decor and appointments complete the experience. For me, it was like some of the most elegant spots I have enjoyed in Europe, especially Italy and France. A visit to The Terrace is like a trip to the Mediterranean, especially since Beverly Hills is blessed with exceptional weather most of the year.
I want to acknowledge Marianna in reception for her warm and friendly welcome. Then, Charlie and a roster of other people attended to us as if we were royalty. We felt simultaneously at home and at a banquet in Monaco!
When we arrived and as we left, we were acknowledged and appreciated, as few places know how to do. I cannot think of one thing that could have been better. We loved every minute of it, in fact two hours flew by, and now we cannot wait to return.
Pamper yourself by lingering over a meal in this glorious courtyard garden. It will elevate your spirits and we can all use that, right about now. read more