In a remarkable showcase of luxury and service, two distinguished resorts from Miami-Dade County have clinched top honors in the latest U.S. News & World Report national rankings. Leading the pack, Acqualina Resort & Residences at 17875 Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach has been celebrated as the pinnacle of hospitality, earning the coveted top position out of 4,745 hotels across the United States. The 98-room sanctuary distinguishes itself with its beachfront allure, gastronomic excellence, and the charm of its Mediterranean-inspired aesthetics.
Not far behind, securing the second spot, is the Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club in Surfside, Florida. Situated at 9011 Collins Avenue, this 77-room historic haven is praised for its unparalleled service and the exceptional experiences offered at its acclaimed spa. The Surf Club boasts a sprawling 9-acre oceanfront property, providing guests with an expansive beachfront experience.
The 2024 Best Hotels rankings by U.S. News & World Report also featured more than 200 South Florida hotels, with several others making it to the top 100 nationwide. This prestigious list includes notable names such as the Faena Hotel Miami Beach, The Setai Miami Beach, The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort, The Breakers Palm Beach, Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, and The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach among others. While Broward County's gems didn't break into the national top 100, they stood out in the state rankings, with The Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale leading the local selections.
U.S. News & World Report's evaluation methodology combines hotel class ratings, property type, accolades, and guest feedback, focusing on luxury accommodations that boast a minimum of a 3.5-star rating and at least 20 guest rooms.
In the culinary realm, Sawgrass Mills now boasts a vibrant new addition with the opening of La Doña, a Mexican seafood restaurant by celebrity Chef James Tahhan and Michelin-starred talent, Chef Patrick Baloup. This venture celebrates the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine and the influential women who have shaped it. La Doña offers a picturesque open-air setting at 1800 Sawgrass Mills Circle, accommodating up to 224 guests in its colorful dining space.
With a menu that traverses Mexico's coastal flavors, patrons can indulge in an array of seafood dishes, complemented by an extensive selection of wines, tequilas, and mezcals. The chefs aim to transform dining into an interactive spectacle, with dishes like homemade salsa and guacamole prepared tableside, promising a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.
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