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Polo Lounge
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Polo Lounge
9.1
Since 1941, this legendary Beverly Hills Hotel institution has been the power-dining epicenter where Hollywood dealmakers and stars hold court. The pink and green striped dining room and palm-filled patio offer classic American fare with piano accompaniment and timeless glamour that's attracted everyone from Chaplin to today's A-listers.
Must-Try Dishes:
McCarthy Salad, Eggs Benedict, Brioche French Toast
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 9.4
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.8
What makes it special: Historic Hollywood power-dining room with 80+ years of stories
Who should go: Those seeking old Hollywood glamour
When to visit: Sunday jazz brunch on the garden patio
What to order: McCarthy salad, prime rib hash, champagne
Insider tip: Request booth #1 for the best people-watching spot
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet only at $27, no self-parking available. Beverly Hills Hotel valet is mandatory and includes car wash
Dress code: Business casual minimum - no shorts, flip-flops, or athletic wear. Think country club chic
Noise level: Moderate buzz - lively but conversation-friendly with live piano as backdrop
Weekend wait: Reservation required weeks in advance, walk-ins rarely accommodated
Weekday lunch: Reservation strongly recommended, bar seating sometimes available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several options including pastas and composed salads
Vegan options: Limited - chef will modify dishes upon request but no dedicated menu
Gluten-free options: Yes - kitchen accommodates with advance notice, separate prep available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for impressing but can feel formal - the garden patio at brunch is more relaxed than dinner inside
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely unlikely - book 2-3 weeks ahead for prime times, or try the bar for drinks and appetizers
Is it kid-friendly? Yes but better for well-behaved children 8+ - they offer a kids menu but the atmosphere is decidedly adult
Best For
Better for: Unmatched for closing deals and milestone birthdays - the history and prestige can't be replicated elsewhere
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine or casual vibes - try Gjelina or Republique for inventive food without the formality
Polo Lounge
9.1
Since 1941, this legendary Beverly Hills Hotel restaurant has been the power breakfast spot where Hollywood deals are made over McCarthy salads and perfectly poached eggs. The pink-and-green striped booths and piano accompaniment create an atmosphere of old Hollywood glamour that continues to attract A-listers and industry titans.
Must-Try Dishes:
McCarthy Salad, Eggs Benedict, Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 9.4
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9.5
Cultural Relevance: 9.8
What makes it special: The epicenter of Hollywood power dining since 1941
Who should go: Deal-makers and celebrity watchers seeking glamour
When to visit: Weekday breakfast for power scene spotting
What to order: McCarthy salad, eggs Benedict, signature cocktail
Insider tip: Request booth 1 for the best people-watching
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet only at $40, complimentary with hotel validation for 2 hours
Dress code: Business casual minimum - collared shirts preferred, no athleisure or flip-flops
Noise level: Lively buzz - private conversations possible but expect energy
Weekend wait: Reservation essential - walk-ins rarely accommodated
Weekday lunch: 30-45 min without reservation during peak hours (12-2pm)
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several options including salads and pastas, modifications available
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 options, chef can modify dishes with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked menu items, kitchen experienced with celiac requirements
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want to impress - the glamorous setting sets high expectations, but can feel formal. Better for established couples or business-romantic hybrids.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Extremely difficult - try the bar for breakfast or late lunch (after 2:30pm). Hotel guests get priority for last-minute bookings.
Is it kid-friendly? Technically yes with high chairs available, but the power-lunch atmosphere isn't ideal for young children. Better for well-behaved kids 10+ who appreciate the Hollywood history.
Best For
Better for: Old Hollywood glamour and deal-making atmosphere you won't find at Soho House or Craig's - this is where entertainment history was actually made
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine or intimate romance - choose Republique for innovative food or Gjelina for casual cool instead