The Mandarin Oriental Miami is the perfect retreat for those that want a little privacy and peace away from the direct hustle and bustle of the vibrant South Beach area, which tends to be the go-to hotel spot for most visiting tourists.
For us, it was important that we experienced the other side of Miami, especially as we aren’t big party-goers. The Brickell Key-based 5-star hotel allows guests to feel like they’ve arrived on a private island with its own private beach, a world-class spa and sensational views of Biscayne Bay, guaranteeing a sumptuous, tranquil and memorable stay.
Location
This classy waterfront urban resort is perfect for those travelling on business or hoping to hit Miami’s best shopping spots as it can be found close to the city’s financial district – rooms are complete with incredible high-rise city views.
Located on the idyllic and prestigious Brickell Key, the property is also handy for those on a short layover, with it being a 15-minute taxi ride to the airport.
If you’re hoping to experience some of Miami’s famous nightlife, then you’re in luck as the hotel is stone’s throw from just that. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to suit all ages and tastes.
Rooms
We stayed in a Deluxe Veranda Room with the most stunning city views. Our veranda was spacious and the perfect place to relax and enjoy the Miami views after a long day of sightseeing. All rooms face either west toward the downtown skyline or east over Miami Beach and the blue Atlantic.
The interior of the rooms is just as beautiful as the view, complete with sliding screens that close off the bathrooms and decked out in dark wood, crisp linens. The added extras such as the comfortable and cosy dressing gowns and beautifully packaged slippers also didn’t go unappreciated.
Our bathroom was large, spotlessly clean and covered in elegant marble tiling. There is also a large soaking tub, separate rainfall shower and plenty of counter space.
On a whole, our room was extremely spacious, luxuriously decorated and I particularly loved the traditional dark wood furnishings and neutral colour palette of cream and honey tones – much like many of the Mandarin Oriental hotels around the world.
Restaurants & Bars
The hotel’s main restaurant, La Mar by Gaston Acurio, serves up some of the most exquisite Peruvian cuisine and boasts colourful ceviches and sashimi-style starters, whilst main dishes comprise of grilled whole branzino and succulent beef tenderloin. The restaurant also hosts one of the most popular brunches in Miami with bottomless champagne, cocktails, buffet, and entrée.
The breakfast buffet is also served in La Mar and guests will find a huge selection to start their day on. For those that love their eggs in the morning, there is an omelette station, where you can choose from a variety of fillings, as well as staples such as fresh fruit, yogurt and continental options, including; cold meats, cheese, and seasonal vegetables.
Another dining option is, Yaku by La Mar, which can be found adjacent to the hotel lounge – serving up some of the finest cocktails along with a limited food menu and jaw-dropping views of Miami.
On the lobby level, there is also the MO Bar and Lounge, which is perfect for happy hour and also puts on the most incredible live music and dance shows in the evening – you won’t need to go far to find your night time entertainment. The pool café is another option, which serves up casual fare throughout the day.
Service & Facilities
The Mandarin Oriental Group prides itself in its distinguished service and, just like all other MO Hotels, the Miami branch holds a high reputation in its 5-star service.
All of the staff, from the front of house to the restaurant waiting staff and cleaners are accommodating, professional and happy to help with any request.
Elsewhere, there’s the award-winning 15,000 square-foot spa and fitness centre, which have a focus on holistic wellness, offering fully bespoke relaxation and therapy packages to guests. In addition to the pool and private beach, guests can also shop at the on-site boutique.
500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, 33131, United States.
00 1 305 913 8288
mandarinoriental.com/miami/
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
