The Versace Mansion in Miami’s South Beach gains its notoriety from the 1997 slaying of fashion icon Gianni Versace. Today, the scene is less grim; frankly, it’s the new spot to be seen.
The Villa by Barton G. is a 10-room boutique hotel owned by restaurateur Barton G. Weiss. After a $1 million renovation, the 19,000-square-foot hotel began welcoming guests in March.
Envision a hotel done up in pure rococo glamour. Translation: Think wrought-iron gates, a mosaic pool, fountains and garden. The 10 custom suites come with king-sized or custom double-king beds, Italian marble bathrooms, living rooms or sitting areas and balconies or patios. Top Room: None other than Versace’s master bedroom. The 1,174-square-foot Villa Suite has two balconies, a nine-foot-wide bed and seven closets (he was a designer, after all). Nice Touch: Guests are greeted at The Villa by British-trained and certified butlers who attend to them throughout their stay.
The Dining Room is already gaining a following. A much-talked-about dish is the Colorado rack of lamb with yogurt jelly, but what caught our attention was the lobster with lobster-stuffed tortellini, caramelized fennel, mushrooms and white bean puree. Before diving in, we recommend you order The Villa Martini, served in a Versace martini glass. Note: Reservations are required. While the restaurant is open to the public, hotel guests receive priority. Guests can also arrange for private dining poolside, in-room or in the two private lounges.
We are told that the entire hotel is made available for your clients planning events. This includes the courtyard, lounges, Thousand Mosaic Pool, Mosaic Garden and The Dining Room. Guests can customize the space to their liking with state-of-the-art audio-visual and communications technologies. Event coordinators are on hand to assist with every detail. Hint: Ask about in-room, poolside or rooftop spa services that The Villa offers.
Getting There: The Villa is a 20-minute drive from Miami International Airport. Guests with their own transportation have access to the hotel’s valet and self-parking.
For bookings and special requests, luxury travel advisors can contact Guest Service Coordinators Samuel Garcia ([email protected]) or Daniela Milori ([email protected]). Both can be reached at 305-576-8003.