Westin St. Francis

Westin St. Francis Review

The site of sensational, headline scandals, this hotel's past is shrouded in as much infamy as stardust: This is the place where Sara Jane Moore tried to assassinate Gerald Ford, where Al Jolson died playing poker; Suite 1219-21 was the scene of a massive scandal, which erupted when a 30-year-old aspiring actress died after a night of heavy boozing in the close company of silent film comedian Fatty Arbuckle. The hotel is comprised of the original building (Empire-style furnishings, Victorian moldings) and a modern 32-story tower (Asian-inspired lacquered furniture, glass elevators); guests are divided when it comes to the virtues of the modern addition vs. the historic building. In 2009 the hotel completed a $40-million renovation—the most extensive in its history—of the guest rooms on the historic side, all suites and most common areas. Adding to the air of upscale sophistication is the cool chic of Michael Mina's classy Bourbon Steak restaurant and his new cocktail lounge, the Clock Bar, as well as the venerable Oak Room Restaurant and Caruso's Café and lounge.