Getaway Gem

Amid the relentless rhythm of daily life — be it mounting bills, caring for kids or long hours at work — a quick weekend getaway can replenish the spirit. You need not go far or fill the escapade with a tenuous schedule — a luxurious bed, memorable martini and serene rooftop pool can easily do the trick. Of course, the food can also make or break the deal, which is why the stylish Hotel Greystone in Miami Beach is an ideal pick.

We are fortunate to live in South Florida for so many reasons, one of which is the ability to hop in the car and, in one hour, be in coveted South Beach. Hotel Greystone, an Art Deco jewel, sits in the heart of it at the crossroads of vibrant Collins Avenue and 20th Street. The boutique, adults-only property was built in 1939 by architect Henry Hohauser, the man behind many of Miami Beach’s landmark buildings. It recently underwent a tasteful renovation, restoring its iconic gleaming white façade, streamlined curves, decorative railings and porthole windows to their former glory while blending the interior with a modern and bohemian-chic feel.

From the moment one steps into the lobby, one is greeted by a sense of tranquility and elegance.

Adorned in soft blush and cream hues, the space is made inviting with a sumptuous circular sofa and an abundance of tropical plants, all set upon the original pink and cream terrazzo checkered flooring.

There are 91 rooms in total, each a haven of contemporary, minimalist design. With light gray tile floors, plush white beds, blonde wood furniture and splashes of vibrant blue slipped into the neutral palette, there’s a Zen-like aura promising relaxation and calm. The bathroom, while compact, is equally sleek with matte black fixtures and an indulgent rainfall shower. The Malin + Goetz botanical amenities, luxurious and with a divine aroma, are an added bonus.

You won’t be doing rigorous laps in the cozy rooftop pool, but not to worry, it’s the perfect spot for a cool dip before unwinding on one of the many lounge chairs, cocktail in hand. Those craving the ocean can make the quick three-minute walk to the hotel’s beachside service — just be sure to bring the plush pink towel from the room.

For gourmands, Hotel Greystone ranks high. The Greystone Lounge (the hotel’s bar) serves a new Smashburger that has generated a buzz among burger fans.

Open after 5 p.m., the moody, seductive space immediately transports guests to another era. Live jazz music plays on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and the oblong room provides intimate areas for those craving privacy. There’s a generous selection of spirits, wines and signature cocktails along with bar bites, but for a flawless pairing, the Smashburger and a dirty martini is highly recommended.

The darling of Hotel Greystone is its restaurant, Sérêvène by Chef Pawan Pinisetti. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Pinisetti worked at top restaurants in Las Vegas, N.V., before landing at Hotel Greystone, becoming a Food Network “Chopped” champion along the way. With a dedicated focus on superb ingredients and hospitality (as explored in our February 2023 Chef Profile story), Pinisetti introduced a new menu inspired by his recent travels spanning the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

A creative and whimsical love affair between French rotisserie and Japanese izakaya, Sérêvène showcases items like Quail Egg Ghee Roast, served in a coconut curry with savory scallion paratha; Heritage Masala Chicken (rotisserie bird, garam masala, mint coriander basmati pilaf) and Ōra King Salmon Tikka — New Zealand King Salmon charbroiled skewers served with mint coriander chutney, tamarind reduction and cucumber raita. Also not to be missed is the Lobster & Prawn Spring Rolls — succulent chunks of tiger prawn and lobster in a shellfish aioli served atop a crispy pastry shell.

Between the food, refined dining room, attentive servers and sultry tunes emanating from the bar, it’s impossible not to feel like you’ve won the jackpot while dining here.

A goodnight’s sleep is all but guaranteed, thanks to the sumptuous bedding and bedside earplugs provided — a nod to the city’s vivacious nightlife. In the morning, Kobo, the hotel’s casual cafe, provides an array of pastries and a revitalizing cappuccino (the lack of an in-room coffee maker might be a slight miss for some).

As with any good time, the end will arrive too quickly. Bags will be packed and the short drive back to reality will await. Still, after a stay here — even a short one — visitors will leave cared for. Jordan, the friendly front desk attendant, offers a sincere smile and good wishes, exemplifying the hotel’s spirit of warm hospitality. That, woven with moments of luxurious respite, affords a straightforward and essential reset, leaving you reenergized for the hectic routine that awaits.

Hotel Greystone is located at 1920 Collins Ave., Miami Beach. For more information, call 305-847-4000 or visit greystonehotel.com.