Photo: Guest room at the Line LA / Courtesy of Line LA/Chase Daniel
Complete with tons of nightclubs, restaurants, quirky dessert spots, and K-pop, it’s no surprise that Koreatown is one of Los Angeles’ most exciting and vibrant neighborhoods. Although it spans just three miles, Koreatown is chock-a-block with things to do – from late-night karaoke to shopping to feasting on Korean delicacies and tasty treats.
Here, you’ll also find Line LA, which is tucked between Hollywood and downtown L.A. The property features a mid-century exterior and an industrial-chic interior with guest rooms that offer floor-to-ceiling windows and concrete walls. The hotel is also home to four bars and restaurants (think a hipster-approved coffee bar, an upscale restaurant that mimics a greenhouse — aptly called Openaire — and an ‘80s-themed karaoke bar). There’s even an onsite rooftop pool. Here's what we saw when we stayed.
Built in 1964, the Brutalist-style building used to be a Hyatt and was relaunched as Line LA in 2014. All 387 rooms and suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows, which make it easy to admire surrounding skyscrapers, and even catch a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign. Concrete walls add an authentically urban ambiance to each of the rooms, which also feature framed photographs by L.A.-based artist Kevin Hanley. To maximize space, headboards double as desks. Furnishings include tufted leather sofas, patterned chairs, and large soaking tubs.
Here, it’s all about the public spaces. Although the design is very concrete-heavy, you’ll also find plenty of greenery and the massive windows bring in a ton of natural light. All in all, each detail comes together seamlessly to create a trendy but timeless aesthetic.
This property is equipped to suit anyone from families (the hotel offers babysitting services) to business travelers. We saw lots of millennials and young couples throughout our stay, as well.
Travelers who are looking for seclusion should consider a stay somewhere else (after all, Koreatown is known for its vibrant nightlife and 24-hour restaurants, bars, and shops). Additionally, those in search of a romantic and private getaway may not be content here.
For those looking to discover all that Koreatown – and L.A., for that matter – have to offer, the property’s location is ultra-convenient. Additionally, the rooftop pool is not to be missed, and is the perfect spot to catch some R&R. When it’s time for lunch, walk over to the adjacent restaurant, which mimics a greenhouse and serves dishes made from local ingredients. If you’re craving something casual, grab a bite at the poolside grill. Before you leave, be sure to check out the hotel’s specially curated lifestyle boutique, Poketo, where you can stock up on sleek watches, artwork, wallets, and more. (The store also hosts workshops and art exhibits – check the schedule here.)
Wifi, locally made bath products, and a curated mini bar filled with American and Korean drinks and snacks are included in your room rate.
The hotel charges an amenity fee of $20 per night, plus standard taxes and fees. The amenity fee covers the cost of wifi, pool access, pool towels, business center, gym access, bike rentals, unlimited free domestic long-distance phone calls, and a welcome water.
Check out the hotel’s offers page for deals and discounts. Also, book directly through the hotel website to earn a $25 food and drink credit.
The hotel is surrounded by top-notch Korean restaurants such as the popular Soowon Galbi and Sun Ha Jang. Catch a concert at The Wiltern, or enjoy a karaoke night at one of the many local venues. For more great eats, visit Chapman Market to explore a variety of Korean BBQ restaurants. For dessert, visit Snow Monster, a Korean ice-cream shop that offers fantastic Taro ice cream. Fashionistas will appreciate a visit to DRENIĆ, where you can shop for one-of-a-kind apparel and accessories from designers across the world.
LAX is about a 37-minute drive from the hotel. Expect to pay $35 for a ride share. If you’re flying into Burbank Airport, it’ll take you about a half-hour by car to get to the property. (approximately $23 taxi or ride share). The hotel is about a 10- to 15-minute drive to downtown Los Angeles – that is, depending on traffic.
If you’re looking to truly soak up all that L.A.’s Koreatown has to offer — all while being at the center of it — you’ll appreciate a stay at this hip, urban, and design-centric property.