Maison 140

11/22/07

used to be one of my faves

by famousblueraincoat at Citysearch

there used to be some really nice bartenders here. now, it seems like their main guy is very path of least resistance/slacker mentality. the customer service has gone down hill as drink prices only inch up. it is still a great hideaway spot though. i would recommend it but i'm not sure i would be as anxious to go back personally, only b/c i know how much more special it was before. i'm hoping they can fix the service issue. they do wine and cheese events here sometimes which are quite nice. small groups. bar itself, i should mention, is miniscule.

• Pros: hideaway, wine and cheese events
• Cons: one of the bartenders lacking in customer service

06/03/05

Models, musicians and a French-kissed menu of martinis at this swank Beverly Hills hotel bar.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Scene
The exterior of Maison 140's bar has shades of a 19th century Parisian inn, while inside, designer Kelly Wearstler's decor is an eclectic mix of Asian influences topped with a French twist. Japanese-style mirrors cover one wall of the tiny room, while modern red plates hang in neat rows on another. Sink into straight-backed, French Provincial armchairs or a '70s-style sofa that stretches the length of the room. A calming, Zen-like quality is achieved with candles on each table; opulent light fixtures dangle overhead. This mini-lounge seats very few comfortably, but that doesn't stop a crowd from coming here to cool down. The nights of choice are Saturdays--the crowd stays thin until the clock strikes 11pm or so.

The Draw
Music industry players mingle with model types while sipping selections from the martini menu. Whether shaken or stirred, each one is served super-sized.