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Yahoo
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
I Spent Four Days at the Gorgeous Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel in Panama—and I Seriously Felt Like Royalty
From the moment I stepped foot into the lobby of the stunning Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel in Panama City, Panama, I knew I was somewhere special. (It didn't hurt that the luxury hotel sits in the heart of a historic Panama City district on the site of the former Club Union, which once hosted the likes of Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth). Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama From the incredibly friendly welcome to the gorgeous, nautical-themed lobby decor, I was immediately at home (and already getting that "I don't want to have to leave" anxiety). Here, my full review of the historic Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel—and why the hotel alone is worth the trip to Panama. Original Photo by Philip Mutz The hotel itself is prominently located in the beautiful, history-filled—and extremely walkable—Casco Viejo, or Old Town. The area has been designated a World Heritage Site, meaning it should be a must-visit on every world traveler's (or history buff's) list. The hotel was a 1917 landmark, home of Club Union, a social club where business and non-business took place for decades. It hosted everyone from Queen Elizabeth (I spotted a photo of her arriving in Panama on the hotel wall) and Einstein (pretty cool) to Charles Lindbergh (meh, slightly less exciting). It was hard not to feel that sense of history the moment I walked through the front doors. That said, nothing about this Sofitel Legend hotel feels old—quite the contrary. My stay was full of luxury pampering, contemporary comfort, cutting-edge cuisine and lively and on-trend entertainment. In fact, the first thing I did was visit the Sofitel Spa by KOS Paris, a luxe and modern escape after a long day of travel. My 60-minute deep tissue massage was excellent and perfectly set the tone for my trip—and got me into "vacation-mode" immediately. Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama My room was exquisite. I kept walking around saying, "Oh my God..." to myself. And the walk around the room was a long one because the one-bedroom suite is huge. (No surprise: I put a robe and slippers on right away.) My suite featured a large and comfortable living room area, where I was greeted by a decadent spread of local fruits, homemade macarons and a bottle of Veuve. If the spa didn't put me in the vacation headspace, sampling red pitahaya and guava with a glass of chilled Champagne certainly did. Original Photo by Philip Mutz The bed was large and so comfortable. My side table even featured a sleep guide that allowed me to order pillows to my firmness specifications (this wasn't necessary for me as the pillows were perfect). As with any hotel stay, I couldn't wait to star-fish during my first night of sleep. Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama The showstopper of the suite had to be the bathroom though. I'm talking a giant bathtub with a fabulous view of downtown Panama City. The tile was beautiful, the vanity was spacious and the shower was large enough for two (there were two showerhead setups) if that's your sort of thing. Original Photo by Philip Mutz As sometimes happens, I feared I wouldn't want to leave my room. Honestly, I could have spent my four days entirely in there, alternating between luxurious baths, star-fishing and sipping Champagne on my giant wrap-around, waterfront balcony, also featuring a view of the downtown area. But as amazing as my homebase for the week was, I'm so glad I ventured out of my room... Original Photo by Philip Mutz There are quite a few must-try dining and drinking establishments on the Sofitel Legend property. Each one is unique, with a carefully-crafted menu and plenty of whimsical surprises (like my pad of garlic butter—seen above—presented in the shape of Panama). As far as dining goes, whether you're staying on property or not, I highly recommend a visit to Caleta on the ground floor. Michelin-starred Executive Chef Lorenzo Di Gravio has created a menu unlike anything I've ever tried before. Caleta should certainly be on the must-try list for any seafood lover (be sure to order the Croaker Cooked in Clay—I had a lot of fun using my tiny mallet to smash the clay to reveal the delectable fish, served with beurre blanc and rainbow carrots). And I suggest asking the very knowledgable sommelier to assist in choosing wines to pair perfectly with your courses—her recs were spot-on. Original Photo by Philip Mutz I also recommend popping up to the Sofitel Legend's rooftop for one of two great stops. First, there is Ammi, a bar and lounge featuring yummy craft cocktails, tasty bites and amazing views of the water and the surrounding city. (Stopping by at night is particularly magical.) Then, don't leave without heading next door to the rooftop speakeasy, Arcano (the entry password changes daily, but if you ask nicely, they'll probably help you out at the door). The cocktail lounge is cool and sophisticated, with expert mixologists behind the bar. I suggest ordering a rum cocktail—something Arcano is known for. And if you're heading by on a weekend, be sure to make a reservation. Both nights I visited Arcano, the place was hopping in the best way possible. And just as I'm so glad I stepped outside of my room, I'm equally glad I didn't spend all of my time at the hotel (though I did spend plenty there)... Original Photo by Philip Mutz Panama City is incredible. I'm so happy I had the chance to stay in Old Town. Definitely book a walking tour—I learned a ton from my expert guide, including part of the city's history as a target of pirates (seriously!). Old Town also features plenty of shopping and cute places to grab a bite, drink or gelato. I recommend seeing downtown a bit too if you can. I had a delicious lunch at Cantina del Tigre (you will definitely need a reservation as the place was packed with locals and visitors). Of course, no visit to Panama would be complete without a stop at the Panama Canal, the eighth wonder of the world. There really aren't words to describe how impressive the canal is. Take in the Morgan Freeman-narrated IMAX movie first to learn a bit of the backstory and then step outside to see the canal in all its glory. If you time things right, like I did, you'll get to see an enormous tanker being dramatically lowered as its onboard inhabitants wave to you on land. Original Photo by Philip Mutz One special suggestion for Panama City visitors? If you have time, take a day trip to Pearl Island (seen above). I braved my fear of little airplanes to hop over to the Pearl Island Beach Club, where I enjoyed a day of sun and fun by the pool and the beach, complete with cocktails, bites and a beachfront massage. This oasis is quite exclusive and provided a lovely respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama A final recommendation: Copa Airlines is the way to get to Panama City. My flight was direct from NYC (a must), my seat was surprisingly spacious and they even got us into Panama extra early (more bonus vacation time!). Needless to say, Panama City should definitely be atop your list of places to visit. And the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo is the ideal place to stay if you really want to relax, indulge and feel like royalty. I, for one, can't wait to go back. 19 Bucket-List Mother-Daughter Trips That Will Make You Two Even Closer
Time Out
26-05-2025
- Time Out
I spent 48 hours in this riverside Sydney suburb and never expected to feel this way
It's funny how you can live somewhere your whole life and still overlook whole chapters of its story. For me, Parramatta was one of those skipped pages – a place I'd passed through, not somewhere I'd lingered. A bit too far for a casual dinner, a bit too close to feel like a getaway. But when my friend and I were after an easy mini escape, we took a chance on this riverside city in Sydney's west. What we found wasn't only great food, a buzzing high street, top bars, culture, history, nature (who knew?), but also a whole new perspective on our own city. We check into the Parkroyal Parramatta because it's in the middle of the action, and the rooms have just had makeovers. From our room we can see the whole town: a mix of new and heritage buildings, Western Sydney Stadium, a glimpse of the river, and Church Street, which is lined with restaurants and serviced by the brand-new light rail. We start our first evening at the Club Lounge for some complimentary bubbles and canapés, and then dinner in the hotel restaurant, Table 30. Then we hit up one of Sydney's best bars, Nick & Nora's – a glamorous, Art Deco-style cocktail and Champagne bar 26 storeys in the air. From up here, the city sparkles. Next morning after brekkie (omelettes on demand, hashbrowns, waffles!), we take the Australian Heritage Walk along the river. The track is dotted with signs that trace the history of the Burramattagal people of the Dharug Nation – their deep connection to this waterway, the devastating impact of colonisation, and the river's enduring role in shaping Parramatta's story. What I find most surprising about the walk is that we're just a few minutes away from a buzzing metropolis, yet it feels bushy and wildlife-packed, with loads of birds, and we see some for-real Parramatta eels. (I learn that the name 'Parramatta' comes from the Aboriginal word 'Burramatta', meaning 'place of eels'.) We head to Parramatta Park, towards our lunch spot, and it gets even bushier. Then we see it – Misc is an arch-roofed restaurant perched on the water's edge, surrounded by grass and bushland. It's way more beautiful than the photos I've seen, and I realise we're in for a very special time. There are bottles of Veuve in a bucket of ice at reception, and we're taken to our river-view outdoor table – covered by a mint-green and white umbrella. We order a bottle of bubbly and settle in, watching birds flit around the trees. To start we order some blue swimmer crab rillettes on fried sourdough, then continue with the cheesiest baked rigatoni with spiced prosciutto bolognese (yum!), and fish with a moreish sauce made from burnt butter, capers and toasted almonds (so yum!). We have the most magical afternoon – this restaurant, alone, is worth coming to Parramatta for (they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on the day). Setting off back to the hotel, we stop to explore the World Heritage Listed Old Government House, Australia's oldest public building. Built from 1799 by convicts, on the foundations of Governor Phillip's original 1790 thatched cottage, this joint served as one of the residences of Australia's first ten governors. As we explore the building – full of original colonial furniture, homewares and clothing – I feel icky. It's an extremely 'old English' home propped up on a grassy hill overlooking the river that was once the lifeblood of the traditional owners. If this feels out of place now, I imagine how out of place it would have felt back when this was all bushland declared 'terra nullius'. It's good to see things that confront you, I tell myself – that's why museums are here, to remind us of our past, and of the future we hope for. In the evening, we head to the Riverside Theatres – the Sydney Comedy Festival is on, so we thought we'd get around it. We buy a couple of drinks and snacks, and head into the 'Festival Gardens' – a fairy-lit bar area. TBH, we weren't sure about the idea of the show we're going to see: Malaysian Comedy Allstars. But, several seconds into the show – which features an Indian comedian, followed by Malaysian, followed by Chinese (all from Malaysia) – we're already cacking. A multicultural comedy show that playfully riffs on our differences and quirks seems an apt prelude to a stroll back up Church Street, which is pumping. Couples, families and groups of friends spill onto the footpaths, gathered around outdoor tables, feasting on everything from Italian to Indonesian, Nepalese, Filipino, Greek, Japanese, Spanish, Thai and more. We duck into a cool little Lebanese street food eatery called Sambousek to pick up some Lebanese pizzas for a steal ($8 for a big zaatar and cheese manoush, and $11 for a chicken, garlic sauce and cheese). Back out on the pavement, I take a moment to look around – at people with backgrounds from all over the world, all having fun in this eclectic stretch of city – and although I was confronted by the weight of history earlier at Old Government House, being here makes me feel grateful, and all the more hopeful for our future. After checking out of the hotel the next morning, we stop at the delightful Lucien Baked Goods – by the same crew as our , Circa Espresso – for coffee and a very good almond croissant. Fuel for the bike ride we're about to take. We hire our wheels from Bike Hire @ Sydney Olympic Park, then (think) we set off towards the Parramatta River Cycleway. We probably don't head in the right direction (hot tip: map out where you're keen to ride, then ask the people at the hire co. to point you in the right direction before you set off). Regardless, we end up on some beautiful foresty paths and riding by some pretty mangroves. Again, I didn't realise just how much wilderness there is right on the doorstep of this concrete jungle. After a cycle – in the words of Aussie band The Chats – all I want and all I need, all I crave is a good pub feed. I've heard good things about the revamped Guildford Hotel, so we head there for fish and chips and a steak, and it delivers. Great food, excellent prices, in a welcoming dining room with a stylish glow-up. As we roll back towards Marrickville, full of food and fresh air, I think about how much Parramatta surprised me – not just because we had fun, but because of what the place reveals about Sydney as a whole. Parramatta played such a significant role in Sydney's history – it was the second European settlement after Sydney Cove. Now, it's where the future of Sydney is being built, and a place where people from all over the world are shaping our city's story. Parramatta may be just down the road, but spending a couple of days here felt like travelling somewhere far richer than I expected – not just a getaway, but a glimpse into the layered, complicated and hopeful heart of modern Sydney. And that's a trip I'd take again.
Business Insider
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
We got dinner at STK Steakhouse. The restaurant's vibe wasn't perfect, but our $636 meal was spectacular.
A friend and I dined at a Los Angeles location of the chain restaurant STK Steakhouse. We ordered lots of appetizers, entrées, and desserts to share. Some of my favorite dishes included the scallops, lobster mac and cheese, and chocolate cake. I recently visited an STK Steakhouse location inside the W Los Angeles Hotel in West Beverly Hills while catching up with a childhood friend. The upscale steakhouse chain has 30 locations around the world and is known for having live DJs who play upbeat music. I had previously visited locations in Toronto and Denver, and the ambiance in the former made me feel like I was in a nightclub instead of a restaurant. However, I had a good experience at the Denver location and decided to give the chain another chance in LA. Here's what the experience was like. The restaurant's design was sleek but felt a bit dated. When we walked into the restaurant, I felt like I was walking into a time capsule. The white plaster walls, blue lighting, and curved white banquettes all seemed reminiscent of the early 2000s. We enjoyed several drinks throughout the night. Bubbles seemed like an appropriate way to kick off our reunion meal, so I ordered a glass of Veuve ($36) to start. My friend chose a cocktail called Fade to Blueberry ($23), which contained Jack Daniel's No.7 Whiskey, mint, blackberries, and fresh lime juice. She said it was refreshing and tasted like summer in a glass. We also ordered a bottle of Saratoga water ($9) and a glass of Caymus cabernet sauvignon ($57) to share during our meal. We started with a few appetizers to share. We ordered several appetizers to share, the first of which was an iceberg salad ($32). The pungent Point Reyes blue cheese and cubes of applewood-smoked bacon were balanced by the refreshing cherry tomatoes. We also ordered the grilled octopus, which was an appetizer special. Our final appetizer was the burger sliders. The Lil' Brgs sliders ($36) seemed like an homage to a McDonald's burger with a high-end twist. These were made with premium wagyu beef, STK's house sauce, and homemade sesame seed buns. The meat was ultra juicy, and the sauce provided a nice tanginess. We ordered a few entrées to share. The first entrée we ordered was the the Hokkaido scallops ($67). This dish was a special and came with celeriac purée, brown butter, capers, and a pomegranate reduction. The scallops were naturally sweet, rich, buttery, and tender. It was my favorite dish of the evening. The duck confit gnocchi was loaded with vegetables. The duck confit gnocchi with Parmesan crema ($59) was rich and heavy — but I think that was the point. Thankfully, the butternut squash, oyster mushrooms, and brussel sprouts balanced the dish nicely. Since we were at a steakhouse, we also had to try the filet mignon. The 6-ounce filet mignon ($64) is something I'd never traditionally order because I don't like leaner cuts of meat. However, our server assured us we'd love it, so I decided to give it a try. The filet was cooked medium-rare, fanned out, and topped with wagyu-umami butter ($13), which was torched tableside and drizzled over the meat. "Wow" was the only word that came out of my mouth when I tried it. The meat was tender and complimented the salty notes from the butter nicely. We ordered three sides to share. We ordered three sides: lobster mac and cheese ($43), Brussels sprouts ($21), and truffle fries ($21). The lobster mac and cheese seemed over-the-top, but even with all of the cream, butter, and cheese used, it didn't overwhelm the delicate lobster meat. I was excited to try the Brussels sprouts, which were deep fried, tossed with bacon pieces, and finished with a cider glaze. However, I wasn't a fan of the glaze and thought it made the dish too saucy. Finally, the Parmesan truffle fries were decadent and had a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. The mac and cheese was my favorite of all the sides we tried. If I wasn't ordering anything else, I'd happily enjoy it as an entrée. For dessert, we decided on a few different sweets. We ordered the chocolate cake ($22), which was decadent but balanced thanks to the airy layers of cake that offset the rich chocolate ganache. The doughnuts ($22) reminded me of the ones you'd find at a fair. The fluffy fritters were tossed with cinnamon sugar and had the perfect amount of sweetness. However, the real star was the cotton candy cloud. The most unique dessert was "The Cloud" ($22), a mass of cotton candy set on fire tableside with Belvedere Vodka. The sweet, sugary threads dissolved slightly, revealing a cake surrounded by berries and marinated in ginger syrup. It was flashy and fun, but I thought the dish was far too boozy and sweet. STK was the perfect setting for a girls' night. After tax and before tip, our meal came out to just over $636. We spent about three to four hours at STK chatting, feasting, and catching up, but we never felt rushed. Most of all, I appreciated that the music wasn't turned up throughout the evening so we could hear one another. I was so pleased with how I felt when leaving this location that if I was back in Los Angeles, I'd definitely visit again.
