EAST Miami Hotel Review

In the heart of Brickell City Center, EAST Miami emerges as a refreshing embodiment of urban luxury in Florida’s vibrant metropolis. Just a brief 15-minute drive from Miami International Airport, this hotel captures the city’s dynamic pulse, offering a seamless blend of creativity, and style. Stay in one of the skyscraper view suites, or indulge in the innovative dining including the laidback sophistication of Quinto, the exclusivity of Tea Room and the vibrancy of Sugar. The Pool & Deck is also open to non-resident guests, on day passes.

EAST Miami is contemporary and inviting, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. This striking high-rise hotel embodies the essence of the city with its innovative design and thoughtful amenities. The hotel features an array of accommodations that cater to both families and couples, from spacious suites with sweeping skyline views to intimate rooms designed for tranquillity. With 263 guest rooms and ten categories, including the signature East Suite, each space is thoughtfully designed to connect visitors to the city’s vibrant energy.

A Harmonious Ambience

The hotel’s approach to hospitality is an ‘alternative to luxury’, promising to appeal to ‘guests who seek innovative and mindful ways to work, play, rest, and live’. Upon entering the lobby, guests are greeted by a striking Asian-inspired sculptural installation that elegantly divides the reception area from the café and bar, Domain. This multifunctional space transitions from a relaxed coffee shop by day to a lively cocktail bar by night, fostering a sense of community among locals and visitors alike.

The atmosphere throughout EAST Miami is imbued with a harmonious ambience, making it an inviting destination for creatives, students, and professionals seeking inspiration while sharing co-working space, and for guests to dine, party or simply unwind. It’s a vibrant, open, relaxed hotel.

 The intelligent elevator system whisks guests to their rooms with ease, while the design details throughout the hotel, such as the filtered water taps and expansive storage options in the guest rooms, demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and practicality.

Accommodation – Stylish and Urban

My stay in a Bay King Plus room on one of the higher floors was memorable. The room featured floor-to-ceiling windows that offered breathtaking views of the Bay of Miami and Key Biscayne, enhanced by a private wrap-around balcony. Starting the day with a morning coffee while overlooking the bay felt like a privilege.

The room was spacious, boasting a king-size bed, a dedicated work desk, and a spa-inspired bathroom. The design was sleek and modern, featuring striking wall art and ingenious storage solutions, such as drawers large enough to accommodate carry-on luggage.

Gastronomy: A Vibrant Dining Scene

EAST Miami’s culinary scene is standout, with several dining options that cater to diverse tastes.

Quinto

Quinto, the hotel’s flagship restaurant located on the 5th floor, honours authentic South American cuisine, showcasing an open-fire parrilla and a wood-fired oven. There’s a terrace for drinks, an indoor bar around the open kitchen grill, as well as a rustic chic dining room and a large urban garden terrace, creating an inviting atmosphere for both breakfast and dinner.

The menu at Quinto is a testament to quality and creativity, featuring dishes like Zanahoria Rostizada – heirloom grilled carrots with tahini yoghurt – and the Entrecôte con Hueso, a prime cowboy steak served with chimichurri. For those seeking lighter fare, the Empanada Salteña is a must-try, filled with hand-cut beef and olives, while the Provolone al Horno offers a delicious cheese experience.

Tea Room

On the 40th floor, the Tea Room presents a discreet and elegant cocktail lounge with a private members’ speakeasy feel, hidden behind an unmarked vintage Asian door. This sophisticated indoor space overlooks the city and offers Asian-inspired mixology along with sharing plates. The highlight here is the Asian Night Brunch, featuring a five-course elevated Asian tapas menu paired with two hours of free-flowing drinks. Diners can indulge in delectable options such as Sashimi or Scallop Ceviche for the first course, followed by signature sushi rolls like the Under the Seaweed Roll or Spicy Yellowtail Roll. The third course is tasty Chicken Yakitori or Bombay Lamb, which was a delight. Then further choices like Bang Bang Shrimp, or Crab Rangoon or Takoyaki. The experience culminates in sweet delights like mochi ice cream, all accompanied by live DJ music and the city’s best night views.

Sugar

Adjacent to the Tea Room is Sugar, the hotel’s celebrated rooftop terrace that remains one of Miami’s most stylish night spots. This vibrant outdoor space, set amidst an urban sky garden of trees, offers bold cocktails crafted behind a hand-carved Balinese bar, along with Asian-inspired share plates that invite guests to connect and enjoy the ambience. With live DJ sets and stunning views, Sugar captures the essence of Miami’s nightlife.

The Pool & Deck

The Pool & Deck area is a designer oasis that invites relaxation in the heart of the city. Surrounded by lush landscaping, this sub-tropical retreat offers a refreshing escape, complete with cabanas and comfortable loungers. The pool is open to non-resident guests via day passes. We enjoyed a poolside day with snacks from Quinto’s bar and kitchen, sipping cocktails, and enjoying the privacy of one of the cabanas. The service was attentive and enthusiastic, with bilingual staff. The outdoor space encourages relaxation under the Florida sun.

Insider Tips for Your Stay

• 1. Dining Reservations: Given the popularity of Quinto, the Tea Room, and Sugar, securing reservations in advance is advisable to ensure you experience these on-trend spaces.
• 2. Exploring Brickell: Take advantage of the hotel’s prime location and direct access to the shopping centre, by exploring the surrounding neighbourhood, which is filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and art.
• 3. Pool Deck: Don’t miss the opportunity to spend a day by the pool. The atmosphere is both lively and relaxing – and reserve one of the cabanas.
• 4. Embrace the Lobby Vibe: Spend some time in the lobby bar, Domain. Its dual function as a café and cocktail bar makes it a great spot for people-watching.
• 5. Participate in Events: Look out for the hotel’s regular events, which encourage relaxed interactions among guests and locals.

EAST Miami stands as the epitome of modern urban luxury, merging innovative design with a vibrant local culture. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, we believe the hotel offers an experience that is both enriching and refreshing, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the magic of Miami.