The Hilton Bentley SoFi and De Rodriguez Cuba On Ocean

De Rodriguez Cuba On Ocean

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A recent getaway to the Hilton Bentley on South Beach was absolutely perfect. I embraced staycation mode full on. How could I resist? The one-bedroom ocean view suite was sweet! This is a sophisticated boutique hotel that’s all about its location — 1st and Ocean in the trendy SoFi (South of Fifth) neighborhood near South Pointe Park. And if that isn’t enough to entice locals and visitors here, it is home to De Rodriguez Cuba On Ocean, the latest dining venue from one of my all-time favorites — chef/restaurateur Douglas Rodriguez.

The first thing you feel when you enter De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean — just off the lobby of the Hilton Bentley — is an aesthetic that takes you out of place and time into a tropical almost club-like setting filled with palms, intriguing mermaid sculptures, a cigar display and lots of wood (the ceiling is actually composed of reclaimed barn wood and it is beautiful). Beyond all this, of course, is the food. It’s flavorful and so delicious and could be Doug Rodriguez’s best, using local ingredients and the essence of Rodriguez creativity (with abandon). Everything from yummy mini smoked marlin tacos with just a bite of jalapeno on top (you could fill up on these, but stop yourself, there’s so much to taste) to out of the world ceviches, including tuna and compressed watermelon cubes with Thai basil. The tomato-y spiciness of the overflowing lobster enchilado is a must too — and its green rice is a real kick. Look for more on my dining experience and stay at the Hilton Bentley in the Small Getaways feature of the July/August issue of FT+L.

One more thing. There’s a staycation deal worth checking out for Florida residents starting in June and includes a 15 percent discount off best available rates, complimentary valet parking, complimentary Bentley Beach Club services (two chairs and an umbrella), complimentary full American breakfast for two (including an omelet bar) and a 25 percent discount at Spa 101. I had a fabulous stay! Can't wait to staycation here again.

Tags: boutique hotels | Chef Douglas Rodriguez | De Rodriguez Cuba on Ocean | Hilton Bentley | Miami | SoFi | South Beach | South Pointe Park