I’d like to say I was nonchalant about dining at the exclusive Polo Lounge where I was recently the guest of a generous friend. Except I wasn’t. From the moment we turned into the drive leading to the entrance of the Beverly Hills Hotel, it was an effort not to gape at the beautiful surroundings and of the luxury represented.
As awe-inspiring as the setting is, it was overshadowed by the meal. We started with hummus. This, like everything we were served, was beautifully plated. Creamy, house made hummus sprinkled with feta is surrounded by fresh, raw vegies and grilled pieces of pita. This, also like everything served, was a substantial appetizer easily shared among four.
The lunch entrees range from salads to fish tacos, from pasta to prawns, from burgers to steak – and more. I opted for the American Wagyu hamburger. This not only took two hands to hold, but two napkins were needed in an effort to keep juicy messes from running down my chin onto my clothing. This was no ordinary burger. It featured onions caramelized in sherry, a bright orange heirloom tomato, white cheddar cheese, arugula – and for extra measure avocado slices. The brioche bun was slathered with Dijon aioli.
We finished with a decadent strawberry shortcake sundae featuring fresh strawberries, cotton candy, strawberry ice cream and more.
Polo Lounge is the place where celebrities come to be seen and ignored. I was there for the food ambiance and shared friendship: none disappointed.
Polo Lounge
The Beverly Hills Hotel
9641 Sunset Blvd.
Beverly Hills, Calif.
(Unfortunately, there were problems with my camera that day.)
The Blue Page Special 
How elegant! So glad you got to enjoy such a special place. Did you dine inside or on the patio? Karen
Karen Storm
http://www.karenstorm.com
We were on the patio!