Arrival/Check-In: I arrived at The Setai late in the afternoon on a hot, humid Miami day. A doorman greeted me before I reached the lobby and guided me to the front desk, where I was invited to sit while the attendant prepared my check-in. I was offered a cold towel and an iced green tea, which was most welcome in the heat. The front desk attendant completed the check-in in under ten minutes and personally escorted me to my room, setting a polished tone for the stay.
Guest Quarters: I stayed in an Art Deco studio suite with an unmistakable serenity and an Asian-inspired aesthetic that lent a spa-like calm to the space. The layout was thoughtful: the bed occupied the center of the room while a sizeable desk with easily accessible power outlets sat behind it, providing a practical work area. The bathroom featured dual vanities that provided ample storage, and a separate shower and bathtub. The tub was positioned in front of a window with a pleasant view of the courtyard and pond. I didn’t use the tub, but the rainfall shower delivered excellent water pressure and a satisfying experience. Overall, the suite felt spacious and well-organized, comfortably accommodating both business needs and relaxation.
Services and Amenities: Dining at The Restaurant at The Setai was a highlight. The menu focused on Mediterranean flavors prepared with technical skill, and the open kitchen allowed me to watch the chefs at work. Our server explained that the restaurant emphasizes the Spanish “a la plancha” grilling technique, and the dishes from appetizers through dessert were consistently enjoyable. The restaurant staff offered attentive recommendations, including tasteful wine pairings that complemented the meal.
Before dinner we had cocktails at The Bar & Courtyard, which is known for inventive drinks that incorporate subtle Asian influences. While I didn’t use every facility, the property advertises three year-round pools maintained at different temperatures—approximately 75, 85 and 95 degrees—each surrounded by private cabanas with food and beverage service. Nearby, a spacious, well-equipped fitness center offers a complete range of modern exercise machines and training options.
The Experience: My stay at The Setai delivered a genuine luxury experience from start to finish. The staff were consistently professional and courteous, and the service was attentive without being intrusive. Even though my trip was business-related, the calm atmosphere and thoughtful room design made it easy to relax and recharge. I left feeling refreshed and would choose The Setai again for future business or leisure travel in Miami.
GT CHECKLIST
Doorman/valet: yes
Check-in under 10 minutes: yes
Separate tub and shower: yes
Large vanity: yes
High-quality towels: yes
Powerful, unattached hair dryer: yes
High-quality bed linens: yes
Large, flat-screen television: yes
Large desk with convenient outlets: yes
Large, complimentary laptop safe: yes
Complimentary in-room WiFi: yes
Complimentary bottled water: yes
Stocked minibar: yes
Ample lighting: yes
In-room coffeemaker: yes
Iron and ironing board: yes
On-site restaurant: yes
24-hour room service: yes
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center: yes
Turn-down service: yes
The Setai, Miami Beach
2001 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL 33139
tel 888 625 7500
thesetaihotel.com