One of our all-time favorite resorts, The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is turning 15 this year and with that comes a new look for its guestrooms, which now sport furnishings with a mellow blue and gray vibe to play off its oceanfront setting.
There’s also a new restaurant called Lightkeepers, which is “coastal” inspired and serves up craft cocktails. Its major feature is its “josper” oven from Spain that allows for grilling and roasting at the same time. Think “Whole Branzino” with grilled citrus and beurre blanc, or Palmetto Creek Pork with smoke chorizo in a mustard molasses glaze. We’re also all about the Lighthouse Tower appetizer, which is a raw bar festival with oysters, shrimp, Alaskan king crab and Cedar Key clams.
We’re also intrigued by the restaurant’s Sunday brunch (described as “over the top”) and its live culinary action stations, a raw seafood bar, bottomless Brunch Punch, Mimosas, Prosecco and Bloody Marys, and an area dedicated to desserts.
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne’s new restaurant is called Lightkeepers, which is “coastal” inspired and serves up craft cocktails.
We suggest securing a seat in the upper terrace, all the better to take in the ocean views. For special attention, contact Kelly Curtis (Kelly.Curtis@ritzcarlton.com; 305-365-4186), the private events coordinator.
There are several bars throughout the resort; our favorite is RUMBAR, with live Latin music. It’s got a 1940s Havana-style vibe and serves the resort’s signature drink, the Black and Blue Mojito.
We’re also major fans of Cantina Beach, which is an oceanfront restaurant that’s casual and fun, serving Mexican cuisine. We thought its fish tacos with Red Snapper were particularly excellent. Be sure to order the guacamole that’s made tableside. Hint: Secure a high-top, counter table overlooking the Atlantic.
The top accommodation at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne is its Presidential Suite (No. 831); it’s 2,640 square feet in size, with two bedrooms and two large terraces with ocean view. Other perks? A dining table seats eight and there’s a full kitchen.
We were impressed by the Club Level rooms, which provide food presentations and beverages throughout the day. Private concierge service is also available.
The hotel, which is run by General Manager Mark Ferland, has connecting rooms; consult with Gavin Bailey (Gavin.Bailey@ritzcarlton.com; 305-365-4201), the senior travel industry sales manager, for any special requests. Looking for the best ocean views? We suggest rooms on high floors (above six).
The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne’s Partial Ocean View Suite is a one-bedroom accommodation spread over 800 square feet of space.
The spa is a major experience at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. It has 21 treatment rooms; book at least 24 hours out. One offering that caught our eye is named “Path of the Rising Moon”; it’s meant to promote healing and includes a “Warming Orange Salt and Oil Exfoliation, an Atlantic Stone Massage and a Scalp Massage.”
Reach out to Timothy Williams (Timothy.Williams@ritzcarlton.com; 305-365-4223), spa director, to arrange a spa buyout for a wedding party.
Tip: We hear that Maritza Ramos is the top aesthetician for providing custom facials. Bringing a family member under the age of 12? They can enjoy a Princess Manicure & Pedicure.
Note: Recommended nearby shopping can be found at the Brickell City Center or The Miami Design District, but we found the resort’s own boutique to be one of the most interesting we’ve ever come upon, with stylish and unique clothing options and gifts to take home. (We suggest a mango candle, which carries the resort’s signature scent.)
Bringing Fido on vacation? The hotel accepts dogs as guests as long as they weigh 20 pounds or less; there’s a $250 fee.
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