Treat Yourself

The Perfect Staycation Awaits At The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach

by

We all know Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote: “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” If he’d had the chance to visit, I’m sure he would have added, “and the exceptional service found at a Ritz-Carlton property.” Take The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, for instance. Nestled in the heart of South Beach, it’s a true haven of luxury and relaxation for anyone looking to experience the ultimate Miami staycation.

For starters, the hotel’s prime location is hard to beat. It’s minutes from Lincoln Road Mall, one of the country’s first pedestrian malls beloved for its shopping and people-watching. The Art Deco Historic District is only steps away, providing a colorful glimpse of Miami’s iconic 1930s-era pastel-colored architecture. And of course, there are ample restaurants and nightclubs to choose from. However, from the warm greeting by the valet to the impeccable amenities available, you may not want to leave the property at all.

After all, with its tranquil pool, pampering beach service, an award-winning spa, stylish bar and exceptional restaurants, why would you? And the beds — plush and heavenly — are a dream, especially for someone like me, a self-proclaimed insomniac.

There are 376 rooms adorned in a palette of aquamarine with warm gold accents meant to reflect the sea and sunshine South Florida is famous for.

As with all Ritz-Carlton properties, the bathrooms are sleek and modern, though I did miss the rain shower which has become a standard luxury feature at five-star hotels. Guests who opt for the Club Lounge receive personalized concierge attention and access to complimentary culinary offerings throughout the day. My stay didn’t include this perk, however, I was too busy enjoying the property’s restaurants to notice.

The signature eatery, Zaytinya, spearheaded by Michelin-starred Chef José Andrés, is inspired by Turkish, Greek and Lebanese cuisines.

For dinner, guests are treated to traditional Middle Eastern spreads like hummus, baba ghanoush and tzatziki. Vegetable mezzes (small plates) shine, with standouts like Zaytinya fries (crispy potatoes, house mushroom salt, roasted garlic yogurt) and Crispy Brussels Afelia (Brussels sprouts, coriander seed, barberries, garlic yogurt). Pacing is key, as there are so many flavorful items on the extensive menu. Seared Halloumi with sour cherry molasses and pistachio glykó, Turkish Style Pastirma (cured beef spiced with cumin, fenugreek and paprika) and Octopus Santorini — grilled Mediterranean octopus, marinated onions, capers and yellow split pea purée are favorites. I was smitten by the Sea Scallops with dill yogurt, honeydew, radish and sesame rose spice and Avgotaraho — a traditional Greek pressed caviar of cured grey mullet roe. Be sure to save space for main courses like Grilled Lamb Chops, Kofte Kebab and Chicken Youvetsi (chicken braised with tomato and cinnamon, kefalograviera cheese and kritharaki pasta) and family-style options like Whole Fish and The Lamb Shoulder. Come dessert time, chocolate lovers can indulge in Islak Kek, a Turkish chocolate cake with chocolate and tahini ice cream and cocoa nib halva or Turkish Chocolate Coffee Cake, a molten center Valrhona chocolate cake with roasted pistachio, mastic ice cream and chocolate pearls. Looking for a lighter ending? Try the Greek Yogurt with apricots.

The only thing better than dinner is waking up to an equally delightful menu at breakfast. Dishes like Shakshouka (with the option to add braised chicken or smoked mushrooms) and Cilbir (fried eggs with roasted garlic yogurt, Marash chili crisp and toasted pita) are divine. The Olive Oil Pancakes with fresh berries and vanilla cream are fluffy and irresistible.

I opted for an alfresco lunch at DiLido Beach Club. With refreshing options like Ceviche Classico and Avocado con Cosas — smashed avocado, topped with pineapple, jicama, cucumber, onion, lime, jalapeño and cilantro, served with plantain chips — it’s the perfect midday meal. The Lobster Roll (a chilled lobster salad tucked inside a toasted brioche bun) and Boom Shaka Latke Burger are crowd-pleasers, and the upbeat bartender keeps spirits high with drinks like Sangria, made with wine, gin, sherry brandy and orange and Tomaso — Monkey Shoulder blended scotch whisky and coconut water.

If you’re in the mood for evening drinks, don’t miss the Lapidus Bar, a sophisticated space that pays homage to the hotel’s legendary architect, Morris Lapidus. With bold, curving lines, metallic finishes and whimsical light fixtures inspired by tropical palm leaves, the bar’s aesthetic is a nod to Miami’s Art Deco roots. Cocktails like the rum-based Airmail serve as a classic tribute to Cuba’s airmail service started in 1930 alongside playful options like the tiki-inspired Taken For Granted, featuring bourbon, sherry, orange and passion fruit juices, cinnamon and citrus ashes. The Modifier is a must — a blend of cachaça, amaro Montenegro, Licor 43 and chocolate bitters, it’s infused with a cocoa-rosemary cloud for a sensory experience that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Beyond exceptional food and beverage offerings lies the Spa — a serene space replete with inviting services that range from traditional relaxation massage to Awakening Bamboo Massage to the Nourished Glow treatment. Guests can also enjoy facials, manicures, pedicures and hair treatments.

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach provides the best of both worlds: a vibrant, urban experience paired with peaceful luxury. Whether you’re exploring the lively streets of South Beach or relaxing in the hotel’s indulgent setting, it’s an unforgettable stay that balances the pulse of the city with the calm of a refined retreat.

The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach is located at 1 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach. For more information, call 786-761-1700 or visit ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/miasb-the-ritz-carlton-south-beach.