Tucked Away in Plain Sight, La Reserve Celebrates Four Decades of Quiet Luxury
By Stacia Friedman
Walking along the 1800 block of Pine Street, La Reserve practically hides in plain sight. Except for its discreet wooden sign, you would never suspect this historic boutique hotel has been tucked away here for decades.
Behind its unassuming façade lies the grand dame of Philadelphia bed & breakfasts — where nineteenth-century charm, a baby grand piano, and the legacy of a former Ziegfeld Follies performer welcome those fortunate enough to discover this hidden gem.
From Family Home to Hidden Gem
The buildings housing La Reserve date back to the 1850s, when they were constructed as four-story townhouses in what would become the heart of Center City.
Fast forward to 1943, when Beverly Ensor moved into 1804 Pine Street as a little girl with her parents and newborn brother.
Following a Philadelphia tradition that dates back to the 19th century, the Ensor family took in boarders. Historians estimate that one in four houses in Philadelphia took in boarders in the 19th century, with nearly a thousand rooming houses throughout the city at one point.
Unlike today's transient guests, these boarders often stayed for decades. Among the notable residents was a former Ziegfeld Follies performer, whose signed photograph still hangs in the third-floor hallway.
In 1985, the property formally transformed into a bed and breakfast, taking its name from a chic hotel in Geneva, Switzerland that Beverly Ensor had admired. She carefully decorated the rooms with family heirlooms and antiques, naming each space based on history, memories and a bit of whimsy.
"[This] year is our fortieth anniversary," explains Maria Fiorello, who has served as La Reserve's general manager since 2017. "We've been operating as a B&B since 1985, and most people don't know we're here."
The property expanded in 2007 when the apartment building at 1806 Pine Street was incorporated into La Reserve.
Preserving the Past While Embracing the Present
Today, the quaint B&B blends seamlessly with the neighborhood's distinguished red brick façades, decorative window boxes, wrought iron stair rails, and wooden shutters.
Inside, the inn tells its story through 12 uniquely appointed rooms filled with historic furnishings, fireplaces, and architectural details that hint at its past.
The property maintains its old world charm with chandeliers, Victorian furniture, and oriental carpets. Four executive rooms include full kitchens, while two studios feature kitchenettes.
The crown jewel is the Grand Dame Deluxe Suite on the first floor, decorated in sunny yellow tones. A baby grand piano stands ready in a common area, ready to inspire a sonata one evening and a Beatles tune the next.
A Personalized Experience
Despite remaining something of a secret in Center City, La Reserve enjoys a steady flow of visitors. "We are always very busy in the Fall, in March for the Flower Show, and in June for graduation," Maria notes.
The small, attentive staff creates a warm, personalized experience for guests. "During the week, we take turns offering a continental breakfast, and on Sundays we serve omelets, avocado on English muffins, a fresh fruit platter, and almond croissants with tea and coffee," says Maria.
Guests need not venture far to explore Philadelphia's culinary scene. Within walking distance are both the fine dining establishments of Rittenhouse Square and more casual eateries. With Marathon Grill just steps away at 19th & Spruce, who needs a kitchen?
Managing this historic property with its full calendar is no small feat. When asked how she and her staff handle a full house, Maria simply states, "It takes a village to do what we do."