ritzcarlton Archives

Treat Yourself to a Gourmet Getaway

Fall is in the air, the grape harvest is underway, and top chefs from Santa Barbara to Sedona are creating seasonal culinary masterpieces. With Palm Springs Modernism Week going virtual this year, getting reservations at your favorite restaurant should be a breeze. Or dine at the The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, sample the seductive flavors of Santa Fe, NM, and cap off a private culinary tour in Las Vegas with a breathtaking helicopter ride. Wherever your appetite leads you, you’ll find endless possibilities for a gourmet getaway just a few hours from Circa. Before you go, check websites for health & safety protocols.

The Lavender Inn & Spa gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Lavender Inn & Spa 210 E Matilija St, Ojai, CA 93023

Escape to a one-of-a-kind historic bed & breakfast. Built in 1874, The Lavender Inn is uniquely located in Ojai, across from galleries, shops, and restaurants. Savor a fresh breakfast on the veranda overlooking the inn’s elegant gardens. Or wind down your day with their complimentary nightly wine and nibbles. The innkeepers are happy to assist your gourmet getaway with special requests regarding dietary restrictions – gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan and more. The intimate Lavender Inn is the setting for the innovative Ojai Culinary School, which offers a wide variety of hands-on and demonstration cooking classes, ranging from visiting chefs to local artisanal cooks. Private group classes are available. Call Beth at 805.646.6635 to reserve your group experience.

Los Olivos Refugio Ranch gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Los Olivos, California

Located in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, the charming historic town of Los Olivos is a rewarding and relaxing weekend gourmet getaway or fun-filled day. Whether you want award-winning wine tasting, fine or casual dining, shopping, art galleries, or renting bicycles to take in the sights, there’s something for everyone. Now is the ideal time to visit Los Olivos – along with perfect weather and slightly shorter days, the Annual Scarecrow Fest is happening for the month of October, with 21 wineries and retail establishments participating.

Rancho Sisquoc Winery gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Foxen Canyon Wine Trail

Home to some of the oldest and most popular wineries in Santa Barbara County. the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail represents, supports and promotes 14 wineries and tasting rooms along Foxen Canyon Road. This 30 mile road winds from Los Olivos to Santa Maria, stretching north and winding its way through beautiful wineries and vineyards. Along the way, you’ll discover a diverse selection of highly-rated, world class wines on the tasting menus. Most wineries offer picnicking space, so pack some snacks and spend the day (or weekend!) discovering this spectacular region.

The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn 412 W Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Travel back in time to a place of old Hollywood glamor. The Willows Inn is the perfect escape, known for its privacy, elegance, luxury, and fascinating history. In fact, the Willows’ most legendary guest was neither politician nor movie star – he was simply a genius – Dr. Albert Einstein. The Willows is moments from the excitement of downtown Palms Springs, yet worlds away from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Complimentary amenities include an evening wine and hors d’oeuvres reception and a full three-course gourmet breakfast served in the dining room and adjoining veranda overlooking a 50-foot waterfall. A variety of fresh fruit is available daily, and seasonal treats, such as dates and nuts, are presented at check-in. Visit Palm Springs has more gourmet getaway ideas HERE

The Lodge at Torrey Pines gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Lodge at Torrey Pines 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd. La Jolla, CA 92037

The Lodge at Torrey Pines is an award-winning luxury resort set atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, with stunning views of the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course and the Pacific Ocean. The hotel is modeled after the famed Gamble and Blacker houses in Pasadena – two of the finest examples of early 1900s Craftsman-style architecture. Dedication to the California spirit is evident throughout the food and beverage program, with special attention to locally sourced ingredients as well as regional wine and beer selections, for the perfect gourmet getaway. The Lodge’s signature restaurant, A.R. Valentien, highlights regional cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Jeff Jackson. Guests can safely dine outside on the terrace with while watching the stunning sunset over the Pacific.

L'Auberge de Sedona gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

L’Auberge de Sedona 301 L’Auberge Lane Sedona, AZ 86336

One of Condé Nast Traveler’s 2019 Top 20 Hotels in The Southwest and West, L’Auberge de Sedona is perfectly nestled under a canopy of sycamore trees within Sedona’s majestic Red Rock country. Every cottage, suite, and room accentuates different different aspects of the property – such as the views, the spa or creek – and takes inspiration from the resort’s location along tranquil Oak Creek. A perfect complement to the property’s natural beauty is L’Auberge de Sedona’s culinary program, which features everything from nationally recognized fine dining to naturally immersive creekside fare. Executive Chef Franck Desplechin reflects the spirit of fine dining in Sedona by crafting dishes with local roots and global depth, while Executive Pastry Chef Morgan Gurney creates seasonally inspired desserts. More ideas for your gourmet getaway in Sedona HERE

Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado 198 NM-592, Santa Fe, NM 87506

The enticing scent of piñon woodsmoke fills the air as you step onto your private patio at sunset. Set on 57 rolling acres in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, just 10 minutes from downtown Santa Fe’s shops and galleries, Rancho Encantado is undeniably exceptional. The flavors of northern New Mexico are on full display at their signature fine-dining restaurant, Terra, helmed by Chef Kai Autenrieth. Santa Fe may have the reputation as an art town, but it’s really all about the food. There are more restaurants per capita here than many major cities, with a wide variety of cuisines, but the signature flavor is Southwestern. New Mexican food is its own special entity—a mixture of native ingredients, Spanish recipes, and the distinctively smoky red and green chiles grown in the southern part of the state. Travel & Leisure has a great guide to the best of Santa Fe dining HERE

ARIA Resort & Casino gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

Las Vegas Private Culinary Tour

ARIA Resort & Casino is offering a glamorous, private culinary experience for a gourmet getaway in Las Vegas. This 2-hour prime-time tour leads you to three critically acclaimed restaurants located within the ARIA resort, such as Bardot Brasserie, classic French fare served by Michelin-starred Chef Michael Mina; Carbone, a reimagined old-world Italian-American restaurant; and Catch, the boss of vibe dining featuring impeccable seafood dishes with global influences. When the culinary tour concludes, for an optional upgrade, a luxurious custom limo coach will ferry you to Maverick Helicopters for a Champagne toast, followed by a helicopter tour of the Strip at night. Afterward, the limo coach will return you to your hotel, leaving you with the memory of the ultimate night out in Vegas.

The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel gourmet getaway near Circa apartments in Downtown Los Angeles

The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel One Ritz Carlton Dr, Dana Point, CA 92629

Woven into Orange County’s Dana Point community, The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel fuses modern luxury with playful creativity, along with direct access to the ocean and opportunities to explore the natural surroundings. Indulge in a private chef dining experience in secluded luxury at the hotel’s Raya restaurant. Every amenity of this unique gem-box-shaped room is carefully considered, including blue ice shirred wall surfaces, mother-of-pearl Italian glass tile work, custom refrigerated wine cabinets, hand-made wool and silk area rugs, and contemporary Swarovski crystal chandeliers. For additional information, please connect with Meetings & Special Events via email. frances.viray@ritzcarlton.com

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado

Photo #2: The Lavender Inn & Spa

Photo #3: Los Olivos/Refugio Ranch

Photo #4: Rancho Sisquoc Winery

Photo #5: The Willows Historic Palm Springs Inn

Photo #6: The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Photo #7: L’Auberge de Sedona

Photo #8: Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado

Photo #9: ARIA Resort & Casino

Photo #10: The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

Spa Spree! Relax, Revitalize, and Rejuvenate in DTLA

Now that we’re settling into autumn, with the busy holiday season looming ahead, the change of pace can wreak havoc on your equilibrium! It’s time to rev up your energy, calm your senses, and renew your ch’i. A day of pampering at the spa is the perfect prescription for wellbeing, whether it’s unwinding after a long stressful day at work, relieving post-workout aches and pains, or looking your best for a special occasion. So treat yourself to a spa spree – and discover the best places to relax, revitalize, and rejuvenate in DTLA.

Desuar Spa 220 W 5th St Basement Los Angeles, CA 90013

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, there is an oasis of calm exclusivity to balance the body and mind. Desuar Spa’s expansive state-of-the-art facility has been designed to deliver a fully immersive holistic health experience and unique atmosphere of well-being and relaxation. Guests have full access to the relaxation room and locker facility, and the spa provides bath robes and slippers for use in between services. Desuar also offers their special blend of herbal teas, along with other refreshments including complimentary wine. Beyond the usual massage and skin care treatments, Desuar offers the only Himalayan Salt Bed in Downtown LA, and exotic treatments such as the Cleopatra Soak (milk bath soak), Cannabis Soak, and Wine Soak. All soaks are done in a copper tub–the copper metal is bacteria and mold resistant, making it easy to maintain a clean and sanitary environment. Book appointment here.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa The Ritz-Carlton 900 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015\

At The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Los Angeles, wellness is infused with red-carpet style. From arrivals marked by a glass of champagne to spaces inspired by the golden age of Hollywood, this luxury spa captures the sophistication of LA. Encompassing 8,000 square feet, The Ritz-Carlton Spa is the largest in downtown Los Angeles and features a couple’s suite, a co-ed sanctuary, a hair salon, a boutique and separate lounges with eucalyptus steam rooms and cold-plunge showers. Other offerings, like poolside yoga, complement traditional experiences for a quintessentially Angeleno spa day.

Omni Spa at Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza 251 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Relax at the end of a long day with a massage or facial from the experienced professionals at the Omni Spa at the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza. Couples massages, facials, corporate chair massage, spa packages and poolside spa parties are just a few of the offerings from the beautiful and cozy spa by Be Well Incorporated. Be Well is a full-service holistic wellness team that specializes in the creation of customized wellness experiences that empower clients to be well – to exist in a state of balance through awareness and integration of mind, body, and spirit.

Frais Spa at The O Hotel 819 S. Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Calling itself the first “connected spa,” Frais Spa’s mission is to educate its clients and help them progress to improve their quality of life. Mixing an authentic spa-care experience with therapeutic expertise, Frais aims to redefine the relationship between spa, health professionals, clients and patients to provide a complete health benefit. Services include an array of massages, such as Tech Neck and Couples; Hot Stone Service; Organic Salt Foot Soak; and a variety of Scrubs, Wraps, and Facials. Frais also offers a Chiropractic and Acupuncture treatments, performed by licensed professionals. Book with the Frais app.

Hotbox Infrared Sauna Studio 835 S. Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90014

Some like it hot! Developed in the 1970’s by Japanese health practitioners, Infrared saunas offer the same health benefits as the traditional Finnish variety, but provide a cooler, more gentle and soothing experience. Unlike Finnish convection saunas, which heat the body from the outside-in, infrared saunas heat the body from the inside-out, leaving the air more breathable and allowing for a longer sweat. According to the Mayo Clinic, no adverse effects have been reported with infrared saunas, and the lower temperature can make them accessible to people who can’t tolerate the heat of a conventional sauna. Infrared heat can also kill bacteria, creating a more sterile environment. During any Hotbox session, you can add Chromotherapy, the healing power of color. Choose a color based on your mood, such as Calm, Balance, Clarity, Inspired, and Optimism, and your private sauna will be filled with the electromagnetic flow of colored light.

Massage Envy 315 West 9th St. Suite 101 Los Angeles, CA 90015

Need to find the perfect place for customized, affordable and convenient Los Angeles facials and massages? It’s right in your own backyard at Los Angeles Massage Envy. Professional massage or skin care services are performed by licensed therapists and estheticians who care about helping you look and feel your best! Massage therapy can relax your muscles to help relieve common stress, boost overall energy, refresh your mental and emotional outlook and positively impact all aspects of your life. Professional skin care helps expose the skin to beneficial nutrients and improve the cellular regeneration process, so you’ll look and feel healthy. Open 7 days a week with late weeknight and weekend hours.

New Year, New You! Best Spas in DTLA

With 2019 in full swing, it’s time to rev up your energy, calm your senses, and revitalize your ch’i for the exciting New Year ahead! Pampering yourself at the spa is the perfect prescription for wellbeing, whether it’s unwinding after a long stressful day at work, relieving post-workout aches and pains, or looking your best for that special occasion.

From ultra-luxurious hotel sanctuaries to tucked-away retreats, and spa to-go services, DTLA offers every indulgence to refresh your mind, body and spirit!

The Ritz-Carlton Spa 900 W Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015

Evoking the glamour of old Hollywood, The Ritz-Carlton Spa welcomes guests with a glass of champagne and the sense that being red-carpet-ready is just a spa day away. This luxury day spa is the largest in downtown Los Angeles and spans 8,000 square feet to include treatment rooms, a couple’s suite, a co-ed sanctuary, separate lounges with eucalyptus steam rooms and cold-plunge showers, a hair salon and a boutique. Choose from a variety of inventive therapies, including the Garden to Glamorous Seasonal Scrub, which incorporates ingredients harvested from the hotel’s rooftop garden, and the Crystal Clarity Collection, which features crystal therapies in collaboration with the metaphysical boutique, House of Inspiration. The spa uses ESPA natural skincare and beauty products for results-oriented treatments. Book appointment online.

Omni Spa at the Omni Hotel 251 S. Olive St. Los Angeles CA 90012

Relax at the end of a long day with a massage or facial from the experienced professionals at the new Omni Spa by Be Well Incorporated (BWI) at the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza. BWI is a full-service holistic wellness team that specializes in the creation of customized wellness experiences that empower clients to be well and to exist in a state of balance through awareness and integration of mind, body, and spirit. Couples massages, facials, corporate chair massage, spa packages and poolside spa parties are just a few of the offerings, all performed by the highest quality of hand-selected and extensively trained professionals. In addition to the Omni Hotel, BWI spas can be found at Luxe City Center Hotel, Hilton Checkers Hotel, Sheraton Downtown Los Angeles Hotel, The California Club, and Los Angeles Center Studios. Book appointment here.

Be Well Spa to Go

Enjoy the luxury of a spa experience in the privacy of your own home! Be Well’s “Spa to Go” is your go-to when you need an ultimately relaxing experience. Choose from an array of modalities such as Thai, sports, reflexology, hands and feet, shiatsu, hot stone massage and much more. And if you have a pet in need of a massage, Be Well can give your furry friend the pampering it deserves.

Overmorrow Salon & Spa 315 W. Olympic Boulevard Los Angeles CA 90015

Overmorrow is energetic luxury level AVEDA Salon and Spa in the heart of Los Angeles, that combines an industrial city vibe with organic roots. Housed in a sleek, modern facility, Overmorrow’s philosophy is to enhance and refine your natural beauty, while helping you attain your aesthetic and wellness goals. The Salon offers Hair and Make Up services including Scalp and Remedy Hair Treatments, cuts, styling, color, hair extensions, and AVEDA’s natural beauty make up applications. Step into the immersive Spa and relax with a Full Body Massage or indulge in the Signature Facial Therapy, which incorporates Korean-style face lifting and decollate massage. Rejuvenate your Qi with Body Contour Therapy, the technique of stimulating all pressure points for a healthier flow of energy. All body contour therapy sessions begin with a complimentary consultation to better understand your physical condition and needs. Book your appointment here.

Desuar Spa 220 W. 5th St. Basement Los Angeles, CA 90013

Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, there is an oasis of calm exclusivity to balance the body and mind. Desuar Spa’s expansive state-of-the-art facility has been designed to deliver a fully immersive holistic health experience and unique atmosphere of well-being and relaxation. Guests have full access to the relaxation room and locker facility, and the spa provides bathrobes and slippers for use in between services. Desuar serves their special blend of herbal teas, and other refreshments, including complimentary wine. Beyond the usual massage and skin care treatments, Desuar offers the only Himalayan Salt Bed in Downtown LA, and exotic treatments such as the Cleopatra Soak (milk bath soak), Cannabis Soak, and Wine Soak. All soaks are done in a copper tub–the copper metal is bacteria and mold resistant, making it easy to maintain a clean and sanitary environment. Book appointment here.

Frais Spa at The O Hotel 819 S. Flower St. Los Angeles, CA 90017

Calling itself the first “connected spa,” Frais Spa’s mission is to educate its clients and help them progress to improve their quality of life. Mixing an authentic spa-care experience with therapeutic expertise, Frais aims to redefine the relationship between spa, health professionals, clients and patients to provide a complete health benefit. Services include an array of massages, such as Tech Neck and Couples, along with Hot Stone Service, Organic Salt Foot Soak, and a variety of Scrubs, Wraps, and Facials. Frais also offers a Chiropractic and Acupuncture treatments, performed by licensed professionals. Book with the Frais app