Torrance Marriott

South Bay-bound business travelers get the suite life at this newly renovated hotel hub.

by Mar Yvette at Citysearch

In Short
Business travelers have probably noticed that Marriott has stepped up its game in recent years. No longer just a mid-level lodge for suits stuck in town for the night, the hotel chain has taken some cues from bustling boutique operations, offering more enticing amenities and ambiance at some of its key locations. Case in point: Torrance Marriott South Bay. Two years and $10 million later, this 487-room space now shows off a two-story lobby backdrop, upgraded bedding in all rooms and a new 5,000 square-foot ballroom. After-work locals have taken to the new Rain Wine Bar and Lounge for a little Asian-style fare as well as the outdoor Zen garden, complete with fireplace and pits.

Hits: The hotel is adjacent to the Del Amo Fashion Mall, which has an outdoor promenade and over 300 shops.(Shopping trivia: it's the fifth largest mall in the U.S.)

Misses: Torrance isn't exactly a hotbed of action, so the scene can be rather sleepy at times.