(AD) This year, my hubby and I are celebrating our 19th wedding anniversary. We decided on a little overnight staycation in collaboration with the Sonesta, Irvine.
As soon as we checked into the hotel, we noticed the lovely open architecture of the lobby/restaurant area, which was so open and inviting with its beautiful expanse of windows. It was a place we wanted to explore more.
We made it to our room and were quite impressed. We were in a corner suite, king room, on a high floor that overlooked the 405 freeway and Von Karman Ave. and the city of Irvine. On a clear day, you could even spot the giant orange balloon from the Great Park. This Room was quite roomy.
This suite features floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views. As soon as I walked in, it had a modern cozy feeling. A comfy L-shaped couch, equipped with a pull-out bed with plush pillows, made me feel like I was at home in my living room. The decor was a mix of rich earthy tones and fine furnishings, including a king bed with a pillow-top mattress. There is also a work desk with a chair. Other amenities include an oversized back-lit wall mirror, quartz vanity, complimentary Wi-Fi, robes and slippers, toiletries, and flat-screen television with premium movie channels.
After settling in, we went back downstairs to explore the rest of the hotel and met up with one of the gals from the sales staff who showed us around. We started off mesmerized by the great room. It was basically a lobby and restaurant in one. I mentioned earlier, the bright open space with massive windows that gave the space so much natural lighting. This enhanced the atmosphere of the new restaurant bar, Haven Point Provisions & Spirits. We didn’t get the chance to check out the restaurant for breakfast options, but we enjoyed a lovely meal.
First, we toasted our anniversary with a signature Sonesta Mojito and a draft beer. Then for starters, a caesar salad and OC Tuna Stack that resembled a sushi roll before cut. We loved the tuna stack. The tuna was fresh and the flavour was on point I selected the Pan Seared Pacific Sea Bass while my husband had the Prime NY Steak with a roasted pepper chimichurri, demi-glace. Both the sea bass and steak were cooked to our specifications and melted in your mouth. For dessert, we decided on some churros since a couple of friends were joining us for a drink afterward.
Next, we wandered into the beautiful new work suite. If you are ready to plan a meeting or conference, this is a great space for collaborative events paired with an area for mingling and even a lunch. They have different table configuration options as well as couches and tables for a casual setting, even an outdoor space to utilize as well.
I was quite surprised to discover that Sonesta, Irvine has an indoor pool and jacuzzi. This area too, had some of the new decor as the artistic walls of the work suite overlook the pool. This too had an adjacent patio area/event space.
The upgraded fitness studio is equipped with Peloton and Precor fitness equipment as well as a set of weights and is located on the 2nd floor of the Sonesta.
Finally, there is a ballroom that can be sectioned off into smaller spaces as well as two additional meeting spaces for weddings, meetings, and any sort of celebration.
We truly enjoyed our anniversary stay at the beautiful Sonesta, Irvine, and hope to do a return visit in the future.
