Beverly Hills, California

Updated May 30, 2012—We asked Charles Hawkins, Chef Concierge at Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills (A Four Seasons Hotel), to gather the savviest sightseeing suggestions he could find—his own plus those of other local connoisseurs, including some he works with every day at the Hotel. His picks for the best of Beverly Hills include the hippest boutiques and the hottest tables in town.

Foodies Delight

Adventurous diners should track down some of the city’s famed gourmet food trucks such as Kogi, for Korean tacos, or Coolhaus, for architecturally inspired ice cream sandwiches. For a more avant-garde experience, dine at The Bazaar by José Andrés, which offers a creative, multi-course Spanish menu. Beverly Wilshire’s The Blvd serves contemporary California cuisine in an elegant, Art Deco-inspired space.

Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo of Animal opened a seafood-focused spot called Son of a Gun in July 2011. It’s a great alternative to the usual sushi. Also nearby and serving small plates is Suzanne Goin’s A.O.C., a wine bar and restaurant that serves a tasty weekend brunch.

Shopper’s Paradise

For her, the retail trifecta of Kitson, Ron Herman and Fred Segal is a must—these shops practically invented Los Angeles’ signature laid-back style. While on the famed Robertson Boulevard, check out Lisa Kline for him and Moods of Norway, which offers blazers so bright they make Brooks Brothers blush. And whether or not you’re actually buying, shopping on Rodeo Drive is even sexier thanks to new flagships from Agent Provocateur, Lanvin and Tom Ford.

After Dark

With less glitz than its predecessors, the Sayers Club is great for live music and low-key hanging out. For bowling with celebrities, there’s The Spare Room in the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Another venue for live music and comedy is Largo at the Coronet (previous performers include Zach Galifianakis and Sarah Silverman).