HH Review: Delano South Beach

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The Delano South Beach – what many deem to be "boutique luxury." This Morgans Group Collection gem is located on Collins Avenue and 16th street, and in case you’re not familiar with Miami, this is an oceanfront street lined with every type of hotel, from low-cost motels to five-star luxury properties. Yes, South Beach is flooded with Art Deco this and Art Deco that, but there’s something about the Delano that I love – it’s tastefully designed with an eclectic touch without going overboard on the design. The Delano Beach Club is located out back and has a pool and patio that will make your jaw drop. The guestrooms are flooded with all white everything. The bathrooms have marble accents, and every room has Malin + Goetz products and rainfall showers (my favorite). Try to get a suite that faces the ocean; the views are unparalleled. 

If you’re planning a trip to Miami for a celebration or a lively weekend getaway with friends, I highly recommend booking one of the bungalows adjacent to the pool. While the bungalows are not located in the main hotel building, which means it’s a brief walk outside, these accommodations are literally crawling distance to the pool, outdoor bar and cabanas – talk about prime location. 

The beautifully landscaped patio is my absolute favorite part of the hotel. Giant chess sets and hammocks hung amongst the canopy of trees makes lounging here extra fabulous. Spending a day at the pool or patio couldn't be more quintessentially Miami. 

And when you’re there, don't forget to say hello to my favorite pool attendant, Julie! Not only is she a major sweetheart, she’s also a kick-ass entrepreneur and artist. Julie designs and sells her own line of wearable art dresses and hand-painted robes in the hotel lobby.  She also paints landscapes of the Delano pool and sells her pieces on her website

Want to eat some good food? Of course you do! There are a few dining options available, ad among them are Bianca, which serves modern Italian cuisine, and Umi Sushi & Sake Bar, a tiny sushi bar in the lobby with a communal table.

At Bianca, you’ll find modern Italian cuisine. Chef Jason Bamford offers dishes that are light and fresh – complimenting the Delano’s aesthetic. The handmade tagliatelle and Big Eye Tuna Pizza are my favorites! Bianca is also open for Sunday Brunch ‘til 4pm. 

Umi Sushi and Sake Bar, led by Chef Nawee Sungkamee, offers upscale Japanese bites and an extensive sake menu. Umi is great if you're traveling alone or with a buddy and feel like socializing a bit. The only seating arrangement available is a communal table, so you'll get to meet fellow travelers and locals while you enjoy your meal. Get there with some time to spare, too, because Umi does not accept reservations. First come, first served!

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