Review: EAST Miami

How did it strike you on arrival?
The main thing you need to know about booking a room at EAST, Miami—the 352-room hotel that occupies the top floors of the fabulous (and still-evolving) $1 billion Brickell City Centre—is that it’s not on the beach. Or anywhere near it. Rather than replicate the easy, breezy, sand-in-your-toes style of South Beach’s grand dames, the EAST, Miami offers a well-placed base from which to explore downtown Miami’s urban charms. You know you’re in for a unique experience as soon as you walk in the door; the lobby is vast and sleek with Asian-inspired touches (which makes sense, as the hotel is the brainchild of Hong Kong’s luxury Swire Hotels).

What’s the crowd like?
Booking a suite at the fanciest beachfront hotel you can find on South Beach is easy, and, as such, draws in a broad-based tourist crowd that doesn't always know much about the city; EAST, Miami caters to travelers who know that Miami’s beauty isn’t just skin-deep, and who are curious to live like a local.

Importantly: Tell us about your room.
Regardless of the type of room you book, the first thing you’ll notice is also the thing that you’ll remember most: the views. Floor-to-ceiling windows in each room afford a variety of city and water views, depending on where you’re situated. The Corner King includes a wraparound balcony from which one can actually see the Everglades. At 410 square feet, the room is well-sized, but has the illusion of being even bigger, thanks to the high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, neutral color scheme, and gorgeous charcoal-gray wooden floors that let the view take center stage. The Jr. Residence Suite has views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay; a well-stocked kitchenette with a dishwasher, wine fridge, and breakfast bar; a washer and dryer, and even a walk-in closet, which makes it a perfect option for longer stays. Even though each type of room is unique, they’re all super modern and take their feng shui seriously.

We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
In addition to being comfortable, the bed in our Corner King was placed right in that corner nook, giving us views from every angle.

How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?
EAST, Miami also features a collection of residential spaces—and visiting guests can sometimes get in on that action. If you want to feel more like you’re staying in a friend’s very cool apartment, opt for a suite with “Residence” in the name. Those are the rooms where you’ll be treated to a host of extras that make the space feel like home—walk-in closets, washers and dryers, dishwashers, kitchens, and beyond.

Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
What’s better than a walk-in glass shower in the bathroom? A walk-in glass rain shower that does its best to make sure you still have those floor-to-ceiling window views of the outside world. APPELLES Apothecary & Lab’s essential oil-infused toiletries are a treat.

We all need some good Wi-Fi. What’s the word on that?
No complaints about the strong, free Wi-Fi.

What's going on here for food and drinks?
In a city full of excellent hotel restaurants, EAST, Miami has set the bar even higher, particularly with Quinto La Huella, a rustic, wood-fired offshoot of Uruguay’s famed Parador La Huella. Sugar, the hotel’s rooftop bar and garden, is a magical spot located on the 40th floor. The lush vegetation and jungle-themed décor are a perfect setting for drinks that take a ride on the (slightly) wild side, like the Hakeo, which comprises Jameson, chai tea, blackberries, lemon juice, and absinthe

Did the staff treat you right?
In my hurry to catch an early-morning flight on the day of my departure, I ended up leaving an important-to-me item behind. Though I assumed nothing would come of it, I emailed the hotel on the plane home and heard back from the hotel manager in what seemed like an instant, informing me that the item had been located and asking for an address where they could send it.

Anything stand out about other services and features?
Just because you aren't on the beach doesn’t mean that you don’t want to enjoy the sunshine. The hotel’s giant pool deck offers four bodies of water from which to choose: lap pool, spa pool, cold plunge pool, or hot tub. Lounge chairs and poolside food and cocktail service make this easily an all-day affair.

Bottom line: Is it worth it?
If you’re willing to forgo a trip spent lingering on the beach (you’ll have to grab a taxi or an Uber if you want to do that), being in the thick of Miami’s ever-changing downtown is almost like visiting a whole other city.