Beachside Bliss at Shutters on the Beach
Christophe Baraton — General Manager, Shutters on the Beach
What makes Shutters the quintessential California Beach experience? Meet Christophe Baraton, General Manager of Shutters on the Beach. Christophe brings over 20 years of hospitality experience to the premier Santa Monica beachfront hotel, previously holding leadership positions with Ritz-Carlton, and Waldorf Astoria.
What’s life like for you so far in California?
Life in Southern California is incredible. My family and I are in love with the weather and the ocean. We all love sports and being able to play comfortably outside 365 days a year is a dream. In addition, the culinary scene is rich with authentic experiences from so many different cultures.
What makes Shutters on the Beach so special?
The relaxing feel that washes over you when you walk into Shutters on the Beach is glorious. From the Living Room to the spa to each of the touchpoints in the guest rooms, you feel like you’re in a private luxury beachside residence. The employees make you feel at ease and that no request is too large. We truly deliver the quintessential California Beach experience.
What’s your favorite place to have coffee in the morning on property?
Definitely on the Living Room Terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite spot for our guests and the perfect place to start your morning with a cup of coffee or unwind your day with a cocktail and a stunning sunset.
Where is the postcard shot on property?
You mean our most popular Instagram moment? Exclusively for our hotel guests, the railing at the end of the Pacific Terrace overlooking the ocean. It is particularly perfect for sunset shots!
Which dishes should guests not miss at 1 Pico
We describe the 1 Pico new menu as Simply Grilled. The culinary team has sourced some of the most sought-after ingredients in the world, so it’s hard to pick a favorite. I do find myself ordering the Shima Aji quite often. This is an amazing Pacific Ocean catch that a Japanese fishmonger always reserves for us. We are also lucky enough to secure the often-limited Elysian Lamb, the flavor and texture is unbeatable.
What’s your favorite room at the hotel and why
The Pacific View Suites are my favorite rooms on property. It’s a luxurious blend of comfort, functionality, and incredible views. They’re located on the top floor of our Ocean House wing of the property. With multiple balconies, jacuzzi bath and fireplaces, once you check in, you will not want to leave. Slide open the floor to ceiling glass balcony doors and take in the fresh ocean air.
What are you most proud of at Shutters on the Beach?
Without a doubt it’s our service and the men and women who make up our team. They work hard to ensure we’re always exceeding our guest’s expectations. We want our guests to feel like they are home or away visiting great friends. Our beachfront location is prime and our wonderful, caring employees have made Shutters the icon it is today.
How would you describe the hotel in just a few sentences?
Simultaneously timeless and timely, Shutters is the quintessential California luxury hotel on the beach. Independently owned and operated by third generation hoteliers, our staff are genuinely committed to each and every guest’s experience in order to provide them wonderful memories of their time with us.
Contributor — Four Hundred by Design
