There exist spaces that vigilantly wield influence: corporate office towers, film production enterprises, government institutions. Still, there are the inconspicuous venues where significant decisions originate over cocktails, fiscal agreements are pondered over wine, and while networking is unwelcome, profound dialogues are decidedly encouraged. In the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, such a haven is Tower Bar.
Nestled within the almost century-old Sunset Tower, the desired nocturnal refuge of Hollywood’s decision-makers is this establishment. But it’s not just the renowned celebrities who frequent it. The unseen influencers like studio executives, top-tier agents, and others who shape the path of the billion-dollar entertainment sector, favor this place.
Historic letters, like one from Truman Capote written in 1947, paint a picture of Sunset Tower as a high-end hub, a catalyst for prolific scandals. Current assessments indicate that the scenario hasn’t drifted much from the past.
The conductor of this evening symphony at the Tower Bar is the ever-conscientious maître d’, in his 75th year. Every night, he meticulously supervises the elaborate arrangements: reservations, arranging the seating layout, managing the very important personages, handling spontaneous guests, and navigating the melodrama that goes along with it.
Renowned for his flawless managerial prowess and endearing accent, the maître d’ has evolved into an integral, signatory figure of this place. Thus, during the Oscars weekend, it felt appropriate to delve into experiencing a day in his life, from his quaint morning rituals to the intriguing nightlife that follows.
The day’s expedition begins when the clock hits 11 a.m., as he slips out of his bed. The first order of business, he divulges, is brewing a mug of freshly ground coffee and setting out to address incoming reservation enquiries by noon.
As the afternoon sun takes over, he devotes his time to telephone conversations, confirming reservations and altering seating arrangements and timing based on patrons’ requests. Just as the clock strikes 3 p.m., the preparations for the upcoming evening commence.
Arriving at the Sunset Tower around quarter past four in the afternoon, his initial task is to finalize the seating plan. The ensuing hours are consumed by careful coordination of table settings, enforcement of cleanliness standards, and transforming the restaurant for the night’s service.
As the clock hands hover around six, the influx of early reservations fills the establishment. The maître d’, always eager to make a favourable first impression, warmly welcomes guests by name. His patrons’ reactions inform the choice of their table, ensuring each seating meets the patrons’ requirements.
Be it a meeting for business, seeking a tranquil conversation or simply to be seen and recognized, the maître d’ takes into account various facets while orchestrating these movements. Around 8 p.m., the Tower Bar begins to thrum with mounting energy.
Engaging with the guests, his dialogues are refreshingly concise but steeped in courteous professionalism. The final food orders for the night are forwarded to the kitchen by 11 p.m., as the dining room echoes with the clinking sounds of crockery and cutlery coupled with fading conversations.
Following the last orders, the venue ambles towards closure, its lights dimming at the strike of 1 a.m. Now, the focus shifts to preparatory work for managing the reservations scheduled for the next day.
With every passing day, the charming maître d’ aims to cultivate memorable experiences for each guest. It’s a task he embraces with profound joy, knowing that his meticulous arrangements and personal touch create an enchanting soiree, night after night at the esteemed Tower Bar.