Since its opening in 1926, the La Valencia Hotel is a charming boutique hotel that is, too put it simply, a really cool place to visit. Now I came here for the first time about a year ago, just out of curiosity. I was in La Jolla, which is just a beautiful place to be in. It's no wonder why it means "the jewel" in Spanish. Once you step foot on the property you can't help but get whisked back in time to the 30s and 40s Hollywood era. It is written that old school Hollywood has claimed the hotel as a hideaway. La Jolla Playhouse founder Gregory Peck "often played host to the new cast at the Whaling bar" in the hotel.
Once you get passed the bar and into the hotel lobby you will see the Mediterranean Room on your left. Here you will find yet another fine dining establishment. Now being a lover of food, I had to eat here. I have come here a few times with some really great friends of mine on different occasions, and the place never ever disappoints. The wait staff is quick, ultra friendly, and attentive. The food is always good. I've only eaten here for lunch, but the view is simply amazing. Now the only reason I came here in the first place is because I was walking along the park overlooking the ocean, and I saw this amazing white hotel with tables and chairs on a balcony, and I said, "I want to eat there!"
On this Thursday lunch we had the Burrata Cheese Bruschetta which consisted of a garlic baguette, prosciutto, drizzled with white truffle oil. We also had the La Valencia Caesar Salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, parmigiano reggiano cheese, and grilled shrimp. Along with the salad came the Paella Valencia which came with chorizo, shrimp, chicken, clams, scallops, spicy sausage, fish, and saffron rice. The Paella was delicious although it was a tad oily. Our server was amazing and always had a smile.
Now with a view like this and good company, it's well worth the price. And prices here are pretty reasonable considering the location, entrees range from $15 to $27.50. The hotel lobby is gorgeous, total film noir. The bathrooms are really nice too with black marble and dark wood. I've always found parking at least a block away. And being in La Jolla, who wants to get in your car right away when you can stroll thru the pretty neighborhood to get to your car.
1132 Prospect St.
La Jolla, CA. 92037
1.800.451.0772
www.lavalencia.com
No comments:
Post a Comment