Created by Raymond G. Handley in 1957, Dinah's Garden Hotel was originally known as "Dinah's Motor Hotel" and was located directly behind the famous Dinah's Shack restaurant, a favorite destination for generations of Palo Altans and many movers and shakers from Silicon Valley's early days.
The architect was the renowned Robert Royston who embarked with Ray Handley upon a new look for a hotel - a garden hotel - and they succeeded. "This combination of rich planting, vibrant color, variety of textures of materials and the free layout of buildings makes for an overall effect of a building group of a most unusual nature," reported Arts & Architecture. Said Mobil Travel Guide: "Outstanding - worthwhile a drive out of your way - Four Stars."
The hotel was situated on five acres and had 40 units. All rooms had either terraces or decks and were interspersed among two lagoons and a large swimming pool. The guest rooms had radiant floor heating and mini bars with cold beverages - a state-of-the-art amenity during the fifties. Many rooms featured wood-burning fireplaces.
The spirit of innovation continued, as Dinah's was always on the cutting edge of hotel services and design. Traveling the world, collecting unique works of art, Handley brought back to Dinah's not only beautiful room appointments but also the knowledge of internationally known fine hotels.
The hotel was unique for its day and continues to break new ground. For instance, Dinah's was one of the first hotels to have a Web site and broadband Internet access. . Many areas are now equipped with Wi-Fi for our guests' convenience.
From 40 rooms, the hotel gradually grew to 100 rooms and 50 suites. Dinah's Shack is gone, but the world-famous Trader Vic's is in her place. And who was Dinah? The McMonagle family, who founded Dinah's Shack in 1926, named the restaurant after their beloved family cook. Since 1926, Dinah's has offered over 80 years of combined grand hospitality!
