As a creative professional that works from home, switching up my environment does a world of good when thinking of new content to write about. Usually, when brainstorming new spaces to visit, I’ll typically focus on working remotely from public spaces that feature some inspiring interiors to kickstart the creative juices whenever I’ve hit a block. And while I’ll usually opt for some trendy coffee shop, I decided to try something a little different — work remotely from a luxury hotel.
So for three nights, I stayed at the Downtown L.A. Proper Hotel. I will however preface by saying that even after my lovely stay, I’d absolutely recommend simply just spending the day there to work — no overnight stay needed.
The 4.5-star hotel features, “a looser kind of luxury,” with interiors by the one and only, Kelly Wearstler. Renowned for harmonizing bold designs with stand-out textures, she’s one of today’s most stand-out designers for creating the most transportive spaces — so naturally, it was an environment I was excited to immerse myself in.
So where did I work? The hotel features two restaurants, Caldo Verde and the rooftop bar and restaurant Cara Cara. Though while both offered a delectable Spanish and Portugese-inspired menu and a thoroughly enjoyable atmosphere, I’d very much recommend Caldo Verde to work from. This restaurant and bar is located just on the left when you enter the hotel. However, before you enter the restaurant where you’ll be greeted by a hostess, I hope you take a moment to admire the vibrant mural by artist, Abel Macias. Alive with Spanish-inspired figures and warm hues, the inspiring sight will be enough to prime anyone’s mind for a productive work session ahead.
After a few minutes and pictures taken on your phone, you can then enter Caldo Verde where a host will take you to your table.
I went on a Monday around 10:30am and as the restaurant itself is open from as early as 7am to 11pm, the mid-morning crowd only held a few guests. I came ready with my laptop and other work-related belonging not knowing what to expect. I’d wondered if the restaurant’s crowd was merely there for social chats or meetings but to my relief, everyone there already seated had their laptops out working at their tables. Whether they were taking regular sips of their coffee on the side or picking at their full plate of food, it was obvious that their main mission there was to work.
Thankful for their casual, work-mode demeanors, I settled into my seat and set up my workstation. I kept it simple as I didn’t want to spread out too much by just opening up my laptop and planner. When the waiter came I started with a cappuccino which after a few minutes, the barista himself, I can only assume, kindly brought out my cappuccino with almond milk. From the first to last sip, it was delicious and for someone that only prefers good, strong coffee or nothing at all, I was pleased. Now, if you wanted to stop your order at just a coffee or tea (as yes you do need to order something as it’s still a restaurant) that would be just fine. However, the menu selection intrigued me as the dishes featured an innovative Spanish twist.
After some time of sipping my coffee and making a minor dent in my work, I proceeded to order the Piri Piri Avocado Toast with a poached egg on top. Sounds simple, I know, but as all the dishes had a Spanish flare I was interested to discover the combination of flavors. Once the toast arrived, I noticed some sort of sauteed pepper mixture atop the avocado and burrata just underneath which all sat on top of a thick slice of pumpernickel bread. The verdict? Very yummy but a bit spicy for my taste buds. However, the balance of the spicy peppers and fresh burrata married well so overall, I was happy and so I went on working as I slowly carved away at my toast. Next time I visit though, I’ll probably order the Smoked Salmon as I saw it at a nearby table and it looked pretty amazing.
The ambiance overall provided the perfect setting to work. The interior design was impeccable so whenever my eyes craved a break from my screen, I took to scanning my surroundings which offered a mesmerizing scene filled with artistic inspiration that provided just enough to get me back and working again. If there was any music, it wasn’t noticeable or distracting and the service was probably the most memorable as the entire staff, no matter who was coming and going, was so gracious and attentive. After a solid work session and after paying the check, I headed up to my room.
The next day I decided to try working at Cara Cara, the rooftop lounge, restaurant, and bar. For both guests of the hotel and non-guests, a reservation is typically required to be seated. Upon entering, I noticed the bar directly to my left and three cozy, small tables to my right — tables so small and cozy that prompted me now to think that if you wanted to work at Cara Cara in the future, those tables would be perfect.
But instead without knowing what I was missing, I was seated outside at a table among a more lively crowd of people that appeared to mainly be there to socialize. So while I got some work done, I wouldn’t really recommend the outside patio to work. I did notice though that the choice of music was great, so if you’re looking for a great rooftop lounge to catch up with friends over some drinks, appetizers, and a great view of downtown L.A. I would highly recommend Cara Cara.
Looking back, I’d absolutely return to Caldo Verde to spend a day working. The food was delicious, coffee was top quality, the ambiance was fitting, and the staff were lovely. And if you’re not intending to go for a work session, a simple visit alone to tour the hotel I’d say would be very much worth it. For now, I’ll be looking forward to my next visit and come ready with my laptop, work ethic, and craving for that same cappuccino order with an additional order of Smoked Salmon. And if you’re waiting for some sign to give working from a hotel a try, let this be it. You won’t regret it.
