Arrival/Check-in: After an early-morning flight and a long day of meetings, we crossed into Miami Beach and headed to Millionaire’s Row. The entrance to the Eden Roc shimmered in the evening light as we pulled into the driveway. Attentive bellmen wearing fedoras escorted us into a lively lobby centered around a sunken circular bar. While admiring the hotel’s nostalgic 1950s décor and distinctive architecture by Morris Lapidus, I received my key and was directed to the elevators.
Guest Quarters: Eden Roc recently completed an extensive restoration, which includes a 21-story Ocean Tower. My room opened onto a large balcony with a beautiful ocean view and a rattan double lounge chair. The layout was clearly designed to emphasize the vista: the bed faced the ocean and was dressed in high-quality linens, a bright orange ’50s-style couch added character, and a generous desk provided a comfortable workspace. Entertainment features included a large LCD TV and an iPod docking station. The bathroom combined retro and modern touches with aqua glass tiles and a wide marble trough sink with dual faucets. The open shower and a separate large bathtub offered ocean views, making a soak feel especially relaxing.
Services/Amenities: Over our two-day stay we came and went frequently, and staff—from valet to reception and concierge—were consistently efficient and accommodating. Breakfast at 1500° Miami Beach was a highlight: the farm-to-table menu changes weekly under chef Paula DaSilva, who draws on local farm offerings. We also enjoyed a meal at the Cabana Beach Club, a partially covered outdoor restaurant with pleasant views, cocktails and strong dishes. Although we didn’t make it to the ELLE spa, infinity pools or the lobby bar this time, the hotel offers these amenities for future visits.
The Experience: The renovation honors Eden Roc’s glamorous past, when it hosted stars such as Katharine Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart. Walking through the doors brought a lively, historic energy that enhanced our business trip. Overall, it was a delightful stay and one I would happily repeat.
GT Checklist
- Doorman/valet
- Less than 10 minutes for check-in
- Separate tub/shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Large, flat-screen TV
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Ample lighting
- High-quality bed linens
- Choice of pillows
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- Iron and ironing board
- Easy-to-set alarm clock
- On-site restaurant and bar
- 24-hour room service
- In-room coffeemaker
- Large, complimentary laptop safe
Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach
4525 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33140
tel 305 531 0000
http://www.marriott.com