
Celebrating a Legend: The Culver Hotel Turns 101
Picture a grand building with flatiron angles bathed in twilight, crystal chandeliers illuminating laughter, and the soft echo of footsteps on vintage carpets. Since its grand opening on September 4, 1924, The Culver Hotel has been more than just a gathering place; it has been a storyteller in the heart of Culver City. As it turns 101 years old this September, the hotel continues to weave tales in its every room, every corner, and every note of live music resonating within its walls.
A Foundation Built with Vision
More than just bricks and mortar, the hotel bloomed from the vision of Harry Culver. Originally named the Hotel Hunt, it served not only as accommodations but as a nucleus of community activity. Culver's ambition was to attract film studios, and he succeeded in luring celebrated filmmakers and studios like MGM and Thomas Ince to a burgeoning culture of creativity. In this way, the hotel became a cornerstone of Hollywood's golden age.
A House of Legends
Designed by architects Curlett & Beelman in the Renaissance Revival / Beaux-Arts style, the hotel’s unique wedge-shaped profile captured attention, making it a visible landmark from miles away. Its guest registry reads like a Who's Who of Hollywood royalty, with A-listers such as Greta Garbo, Clark Gable, and Judy Garland having stayed within its walls. Notably, all 124 actors from The Wizard of Oz were once crammed into its rooms—three to a bed at times—making for stories that still bring smiles today.
A Culinary Tribute to History
To commemorate such a significant milestone, The Culver Hotel isn't merely resting on its rich legacy; it's revitalizing it through an exciting dining experience. All September long, guests can indulge in a specially curated $101 dinner-for-two menu, designed to evoke the flavors of 1924 with a contemporary twist. Diners can delight in prawns in cocktail sauce, baby gem Caesar salad with rosemary sourdough croutons, beef sliders with Fiscalini cheddar, accompanied by fries and house-made pickles. To round off the meal, indulge in a velvety coffee crème brûlée made from tropical beans sourced from Hawaii Sunshine Orchards.
Experience Celebrations Under the Stars
As guests gather for dinner, they have the option of enjoying the elegant interiors of the Grand Lobby or the tranquil setting of the tree-lined garden patio. Live music begins at 7 p.m. nightly, turning every evening into a joyful celebration of the past and present. Additionally, hotel trivia tests bring guests together, with a chance to win a complimentary night’s stay. It's a community affair, where locals and visitors alike can immerse themselves in history while enjoying the vibrant ambiance.
Turning 101 Isn’t Just an Achievement—It’s a Legacy
Reaching a century and beyond highlights not just age, but a resurrection of stories and memories. The Culver Hotel, which fell into decline before the Mallick family revitalized it in 2007, stands today as a testament to the perseverance of place and spirit. The design honors its history, featuring modern elements that sync with its vintage charm. Now, it's a hub for cocktails, dinner gatherings, and peaceful rooms filled with character.
A Toast to New Beginnings
As the hotel turns 101, it reminds us that age is simply a pretext for new stories waiting to unfold. It's more than just the past; it’s the laughter, companionship, and memories that we create here. Join in on the festivities this September: sip cocktails under starlit skies, savor dishes that bridge generations, and celebrate a history that will continue to inspire.
Planning Your Visit
For those eager to partake in the celebration, visit The Culver Hotel at
9400 Culver Blvd, Culver City, CA. Throughout the month of September, from 5 p.m. until closing, diners are invited to a culinary experience like no other, complete with the backdrop of soulful live music.With a rich blend of nostalgia, community, and culinary delight, The Culver Hotel's 101st anniversary is a remarkable reminder of how history is not merely behind us but continues to enrich our present and future.
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