Right on the busy Sunset Strip and reopened in January 2009, the ANdAZ is a complete update of the former Hyatt West Hollywood, known as the "riot house," for its famed but badly behaved rock-and-roll guests. Enter to find standing "hosts" welcoming guests and checking them in via high-tech tablet (there's no front desk!). Sip a bit of tea or a glass of wine in the lounge and wander over to the wide-open hotel restaurant, RH, and its equally open kitchen that cooks up fresh seasonal specialties and delectable tapas. Generous-sized rooms are spare but the sensible minimalism results in ample work space with task chair, a comfy seating area, and vented windows. Bathrooms are super practical with overhead shower heads. Nicely done: The refrigerator is stocked with free nonalcoholic drinks and healthful snacks. Check out the rooftop pool deck for jetliner city views. Pros: sleek new interiors with the latest gadgets like free Wi-Fi throughout and sizable flat-screen TVs; ambitious hotel dining and bar concepts; excellent gym overlooks Sunset Boulevard's nonstop action. Cons: traffic congestion impedes access, Sunset Strip is wildly popular weekends and holidays.
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