- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Raleigh Hotel
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
1775 Collins AveMiami Beach, FL 33139
(305) 534-6300
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
75 reviews for Raleigh Hotel
Review Highlights
"Very charming Art Deco property ideal for couples."
(in 16 reviews)
"People are laid-back yet trendy and drinks are average..."
(in 5 reviews)
"The lounge chairs can be pricey at other hotels."
(in 3 reviews)
Loading...
75 reviews in English
-
Review from Cliff F.
I'm sold.
See my previous review for the big picture, but my recent trip to the Raleigh really sealed the deal for me.
The bartender (same guy from last time, but I didn't catch his name--very nice, charming...) recommended something called an "Old Cuban". This is essentially a mojito made with dark, high quality rum and orange bitters.
Oh. My. God. I guzzled down two...and had to be put to bed earlier than expected.
I went with a group of five, including myself, on a Friday night at around 10...there was no problem finding a table, getting drinks, and carrying on conversations at a reasonable volume for a couple hours. A total treat.
If you're in South Beach and need a nice, classy, relatively quiet place to drink---the Raleigh is it.Listed in: Its So Hard To Find…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
12/18/2011
Went to the Raleigh's Martini Bar for some late night drinks last night, and I was pleasantly… Read more »
-
-
Review from Nenette Y.
San Francisco, CA
1/1/2012
L-O-V-E.
If you're looking for a place to stay along the beach that is classy with zero cheese... this is the place.
Lots of history here along with excellent customer service without any pretense.
Looking forward to our next return. -
Review from Adam T.
12/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Let me preface this review with this comment: I have NEVER felt more like a second class citizen in my entire life than during my stay at the Raleigh.
That being said, I will try to be as objective as possible in this review.
The Raleigh is definitely a beautiful hotel that is the essence of art-deco, hipster cool. The location is good, the people are beautiful, the hotel is beautiful, the pool is outstanding. The Raleigh has a lot going for it.
Where this little gem falls short was their staff. From the moment we got out our car, we received the visual "up/down" from the staff with an obvious look of disgust. While we certainly weren't at our finest moment as we had just spent 4 hours in a car getting there, we certainly weren't visually offensive.
We valet'd the car and made our way in, receiving visual daggers from the staff upon entry as well. Thankfully the woman behind the counter was very nice and we picked up our keys and went upstairs.
The room was consistent with the hotel's theme. It was a little small, but had a decent view of the pool, which is awesome.
We decided that we paid all that money to be at the hotel, so we should try dining there. After a quick debrief of how mortified we both were at the not-so-warm reception we received, we cleaned up and went to the poolside bar.
The bar is great. Drink menu also matched the ambiance with a lot of throw-back, classic cocktails (think Martinis, Manhattans, etc). We had 2 overpriced drinks then had the bartender get us a table. Rather than be sat by the pool where all the cool kids were, they quarantined us to a 2-top in the middle of empty seats 10 feet from the bar. At least they were consistent.
The waitress was friendly and helpful at first, but quickly categorized us into mouth-breathing knaves and began explaining the specials like we've never eaten outside of a Burger King.
We got our first course, and we both felt so unbelievably out of place, that we wanted to call the whole thing off. We found the food and beverage manager, who was very gracious (really, he was the best thing about the entire stay there), was embarrassed at the level of service we had received, comp'd most all of our meal and offered dessert. We certainly didn't take him up on it as we had already served enough time in joint and went out on the town.
Bottom line here is that The Raleigh and it's adjoining restaurant/bar are very pretty, very high-end places. I would suggest that you bring out your finest threads and your credit card with the highest limit when you go here.
We are certainly never going to the Raleigh ever again and will take joy in sharing our horrible experience with anyone that will listen. -
Review from M M.
Richmond, VA
12/22/2011
Both the Raleigh Hotel website and Miami New Times tout the happy hour that occurs Wed-Sat nite from 5-8 pm. This bar is even ranked by the MNT as one of the top three happy hours in Miami.
GUESS WHAT?
While the hotel's website continues to state that there is a happy hour, our bartender last night told us the practice ended at the end of October. I do not go out looking for happy hours by the way, and have no problem with full price bars....as evidenced by the fact that we had full price cocktails all week at AltaMare, Yardbird, The Tides, Larios, but this place IS LYING. I call it fraud. -
Review from Kate H.
11/30/2011
I didn't stay here as a guest, but was intrigued by the mostly-hidden facade and there was a very reasonably priced breakfast menu out by the sidewalk. So a girlfriend and I had a delightful brunch in a ridiculously nice space by their lovely pool.
"Lovely" pool is quite an understatement.
I can't remember what it was called, but my eggs were served with chorizo, and wound up being basically soft poached in a cast iron dish with some roasted tomatos. And was awesome. Bennie across the table was well received, coffee was good and in a big pot, which I always like. Hella comfortable chairs. Good service, auto-grat, but who cares. One less thing to think about.
We exited via their back gate directly onto the beach and noticed how extensive their back garden is, and I expect it's breathtaking at night. Had I been feeling gutsier I might have suggested we try grabbing a spot by their pool for a few hours. Maybe next time.
Anyways - a nice way to enjoy the hotel and it's ambience without having to pay for the room. -
Review from Alice C.
10/10/2011
Seafood ceviche and spicy beef appetizers were presented nicely and very delicious. The environment is very nice and a great place to just hang out in Miami. It was a great way to end our tour that wasn't actually on the list!
O yea strong drinks!!!! -
Review from Katharine R.
Chicago, IL
9/21/2011
Seriously stay away. This place is a rip off. My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon. We had a lot of issues with the hotel. Mainly, they added a ton of charges that we didn't expect. We had no idea that parking was $35 a day until it showed up on our bill. They charged us for things on the mini bar that we didn't use, and they were rude about taking it off. Overall, it was a lousy experience.
There are better places to stay. Stay away from this place. -
Review from Christie B.
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL
10/19/2011 1 photo
Cozy art deco hotel in the middle of south beach!
We were welcomed to our room on the 6th floor with classical jazz playing on the mp3/cd/radio!! The room and bathroom was small but the cozy bed and walk in closet made this okay. Loved the grapefruit scented Keihls toiletries!
Unfortunately it rained every October day we were here. The pool was gorgeous. I really wish we could have experienced it's glam with a mojito and sunshine--- next time though. -
Review from Janet H.
Chino Hills, CA
9/14/2011 2 photos
I was here on vacation and for the Mercedes Benz Fashion week. We stayed here for 4 days Fri-Mon morning. The place was nice don't get me wrong, but I did meet some rude people ( VERY SNOBBY). The hotel itself was pleasant though and since it was fashion week the place was a bit busy and loud at times, but we could of been part of the loudness. The pool was great and looked clean. They had a back gate which lead straight to South Beach which was blocked during the evening for the fashion show. We didn't even bother to take the elevator at all because it was very very slow, and since we were only on the third floor we took the stairs.
Problems I had with the hotel service:
I was that they over charged my card for something and I could not get a hold of their "billing dept." (as told by the front desk) so I just went through my credit card company instead.
AND
They were supposed to send up a package to my room, but they asked if I could come down and get it myself and I refused to because they were supposed to have it opened and ready in my room before I was even there... not to mention that the package was pretty heavy and they expected me to go down there and get it! please... they were given instructions to put it in my room already...
I personally think the people working here judges the people that stay there... so they are selective at being polite/helpful. Not sure if its because we are Asian, but it certainly made me feel that way.
I think with better customer service then I would have had a better experience with this hotel. -
Review from Annabella S.
Miami Beach, FL
9/25/2011
We stayed one night for my husband's birthday away from the kids, dogs and 6am wake ups. Sleeping in has become a valuable gift we like to gift each other these days...sad but true.
I also had a big group dinner planned at The Royal restaurant, which I was excited for as I think their outdoor dining area is hands down the prettiest in South Beach.
The Hotel
We took advantage of the Florida Resident Special Offer- which was 30% off the best rate. This included complimentary valet parking and continental breakfast for two. So we scored a great deal.
As soon as we arrived after our long 5 block car trip, we valet'ed the car and checked in. Knowing it's slow season in the hood, we were looking forward to some peace and quiet and that's exactly what we got. There were hardly any people lounging in the lobby, as there usually is during high season.
The front desk gentleman was super friendly in a laid back way and quickly got us checked in and ready to head to our room. We were upgraded to the Sunset Suite, which we really really enjoyed. It has a separate living area with a super comfortable day bed and original deco furniture and a bedroom that is spacious and again, with deco inspired furnishings.
Our suite had two perhaps unnecessarily large flat screen tvs, and lots of storage for personal belongings, a little cedar lined closet and a pimp ass bathroom which I want to emulate at our own home. Think old school deco with a beautiful separate double shower room- all tiled in deco baby blue tile with antique'y fixtures.
As design heads- we 'get' the design of the place- which is probably the only true deco hotel left on the beach. The hotel lobby cafe, the awesome little lobby Bar, all the rattan furniture, the terrazzo floors, the old school light fixtures and even the slight smell of another era- are all major selling points to us and definitely is our definition of 'luxury'.
Though I can see, how to the non-design crowd- that the Raleigh could be 'old' or 'dark' or 'uncomfortable' to them. You really have to appreciate architecture and history to really love and appreciate this place. If your definition of hotel luxury is a W Hotel, or even a Marriott or Hilton hotel- this is NOT the place for you. Trust me, you will HATE this place.
I digress...Back to the room. It was spotless. The bedding fresh and clean and also spotless and the towels very soft and plush.
A nice surprise was the complimentary welcome bottle of bubbly- that the hotel manager sent up to us, which was such a nice touch! We definitely felt the love.
We headed for a little pool side action shortly after enjoying our sparkly libations and ordered a carafe of jalapeno margarita with cilantro (yum!) and ceviche. Lounged, ate, drank and then swam in the prettiest pool in my eyes, amidst a backdrop of well kept lush tropical landscape and majestic date palms. Heavenly.
Our restaurant reservation was at 7:30- they had set up a great comfortable table on the outdoor patio for 14 of us. The service was great- glasses always filled, drinks always refreshed- and the food, despite reading mixed reviews here in Yelp- was quite delicious. Simple food- nothing out of the ordinary- but everything seemed fresh and tasty. What more could we ask for?
We love love love the Raleigh and plan to make this escape something of a regular thing. The lack of pretention, quiet elegance and majestic deco-era beauty- along with laid back attentive and friendly service, delicious food- is enough for us to highly recommend this place and definitely definitely come back again soon to.
(N.B. The Raleigh is hands down a museum of mid-century design that unfortunately, may become a definite thing of the past once the renovations begin...so let's see what the new owners of the hotel will do to this place...hopefully not much of anything we can see at least!) -
Review from Sheree P.
7/19/2011
Here for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Miami for the swimwear shows with my http://bathingnews.com blogger /ex-roomie friend Tala.
Loved the Pool, Location, Service, The Royal Restaurant, lobby bar. Centrally located and it is a very old hollywood, sophisticated and classic hotel.
Didn't stay in the rooms so cannot comment. But if you're in the Miami area, do make a stop here to check out the art-deco decor Miami is known for.
Check out the detailed review on The Royal Restaurant here: http://www.yelp.com/bi... -
Review from Rachel S.
11/4/2011 23 Check-ins Here
A classic that gets better with time. The lobby still maintains its vintage look while remaining well maintained. Outside the pool area is comfortable and well arranged. The pool is absolutely beautiful.
-
Review from Ricky o.
Miami Beach, FL
Been to a couple events here. Eaten here! I like it..... Its old school miami botique hotel. (did i spell botique right?) well, i like it. its cool. small cigar type chill bar inside. You must try the iced tea in the restaurant!
-
Review from Mia M.
Manhattan, NY
8/28/2011
Undeniably my favorite hotel on South Beach.
I recently had really great, impromptu lunch at the Royal; the menu was exactly what I was craving, the food was perfectly portioned and delicious, and in addition to the attentiveness of the server, the maitre'd made sure we were taken care of, from the initial greeting to our departure, even stopping by to see how we were doing during our meal.
It reminded of how much I love this hotel: I love that it's a restored art deco building, not some modernized replica, and restored beautifully, quirks and all. I love that every time I come here, it's quiet, relaxed, and classy. And most of all, I love that I can count on the Raleigh for a consistently good experience. -
Review from Heather W.
Costa Mesa, CA
12/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
My boyfriend and I stopped in here for a drink because we had seen this hotel listed as having one of the best hotel bars in the country, and it was only a 10 minute walk from our hotel. The bar was nice, but surprisingly small. The bartender was great and very friendly, and the drinks were strong!
-
Review from Jules D.
Brooklyn, NY
6/24/2011
Probably one of my favorite hotels in the USA. It's just the perfect oasis on Collins Ave.
Really one of the few hotels where after a week I still don't feel like I'm in a hotel. Amazing interiors and beautifully renovated Art Deco design. While you're at the beach the lounge chairs are set up perfectly and the beach menu is just great. Oceanside drinks and lunches show up very fast and are always right on point
The only thing that stops me from giving it a 5 star is that the rooms can be a bit hit and miss. If you get the right room on any floor above the 4th it's amazing, anything under and wellll..... -
Review from Amy C.
San Diego, CA
10/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
this is one of my most favorite spots in all of miami...and certainly the best vintage pool AMAZING!
i'll be back again and again :))) -
Review from evan p.
Los Angeles, CA
1/19/2011
My friend and I were asked to leave the hotel on December 31st for being too loud the previous night. I understand that this hotel does not only cater to those who like to stay up to the wee hours of the night, but its South Beach, the day before new years!
I would not return nor recommend it to anyone. -
Review from Eva J.
El Cajon, CA
5/14/2011
I can't say enough nice things about the Raleigh. It's a beautifully preserved hotel -- the pool is simply gorgeous, as is the outdoor dining area. The staff are really what make it spectacular -- particularly Hussain at the Royal.
The sheets are high thread count, turn down service is included, as well as fresh (complimentary) bottles of Fiji water on each bedstand and a candle lit.
It's close to all in South Beach, without having a lot of noise (or crazy drunk people).
HIGHLY RECOMMEND, and if you get a drink -- get the Lola. Trust me. Rum, jalapeno and passionfruit!!
The food at the Royal was good -- my macaroni and cheese was nothing out of the ordinary, but was good nonetheless.
All in all, definitely deserving of its 5 stars. . . when do we go back is my question! -
Review from Mary-Ann I.
West Palm Beach, FL
6/13/2011
Best things about this hotel: Service, Location, Restaurant, Beach amenities, Pool.
Downside: Expect Art Deco room-sizes, squeaky beds, and basic room amenities.
I stayed here last weekend with my husband and we had a great stay, although we had a person in the elevator tell us that he wasn't expecting the hotel to be so old without any remodeling. If you need a modern room, this isn't the place for you. Unlike some of the other hotels on Collins that are Art Deco-inspired, this one is truly Art Deco.
The main reason this place made such a great stay was the service and the beach/pool amenities. At the beach you get free lounge chairs and the attendant sets up cushions on the chair for you. The lounge chairs can be pricey at other hotels. At the pool there are lots of beds and lounge chairs to lay out in. There are also free cabanas that do not face the pool, but are located on their "oasis" section, which is a sandy section on the way to the beach that has a volleyball court.
The brunch food and pool food were very good. We did a summer Florida residents package and were surprised that the included breakfast was actually very good. Drinks at the pool are expensive but good, as well as the pool food.
We usually stay at The Sagamore which has nicer rooms, but will likely come back to The Raleigh because the service and beach amenities were so much better. -
Review from Cameron M.
2/14/2011
Just to be clear, I find decrepit places as charming as the next guy but don't expect to pay a $400/night for the privilege. Like a groomed corpse, the Raleigh has been made just presentable enough so as to get one final glimpse of her before the wrecking ball swings.
Though I had to wait 3 hours after checkout to get my room and then the keys (yes they use cylinder locks) couldn't be found. When you do get into your room you will find them small, humorlessly decorated for Florida but reasonably appointed--the beds and sheets, towels and water pressure were all standout.
The corridors are dim and uninviting to all but meth dealers. Poolside drink prices (e.g. $14 for a G&T) would give Mubarak pause but then again they have to pay to heat the pool to 104 degrees.
The service is obliging and pleasant and the comprehensive turn down service at night is a welcome and unexpected bonus that others should emulate.
In summary, the Raleigh gets the soft stuff right but needs to spend a bit on the physical plant and on the systems that most of us have come to expect in hotels of this size and price point. -
Review from Brad D.
Brooklyn, NY
4/5/2011
It's all been said but for on-the-beach simplicity without the Miami Pretense, this place cannot be beat. It literally feels like a Cuban home on the outskirts of Habana, just with slightly newer furniture and a few more amenities.
If you're looking to be steeped in luxury and pampered, the Ritz is down the street. This place is about as chill as it gets in (house music sound) Miami. The only sad-face? The breakfast staff leaves a bit to be desired in the "speed" and "friendly" departments. As long as you're in a rush and not as overly-sensitive as I am, you'll be thrilled. And the pool is kick-ass. -
Review from Parisa A.
6/13/2010
I hopped over here for 1 night after my Shore Club rate jumped by a full $250. Ordinarily, I never would've thought to stay at the Raleigh, but it was actually kind of cool. Very laid back, esp. compared to the Shore Club.
Biggest advantage: this place is CLEAN. And that's coming from a germ-a-phobe. I couldn't find a single smudge on the linens or mark on any of my towels...and believe me, I tried. They could stand to get rid of the rug on the floor and it would've been nice if I could actually see through the tiny windows in my room, but I'll take all that in exchange for utmost cleanliness. Oh, and the pool really is awesome in a retro-chic kind of way. And while you're out there, make sure to order the guac from the pool restaurant. Divine.Listed in: South Beach Gems
-
Review from Martin O.
6/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
I had Sunday Brunch at the Raleigh Hotel. It's a Tappas style brunch menu. I've never ordered breakfast from a Tappas menu so I settled on the French Toast with Carmelized Bananas and Fruit. It came with a pitcher of hot Maple Syrup. It was very good but you can expect SOBE prices at bar for any breakfast drinks.
-
Review from Lee S.
Chicago, IL
9/20/2011
I hated this place! I stayed here on my honeymoon and had a miserable time. We were surrounded on both sides by teenagers partying till dawn which completely ruined the relaxing weekend my wife and I were searching for. The 'complimentary breakfast' is a paper bag of stale bread and old muffins. I gave my car to the valet and when I got it back, my new GPS unit was broken. The valet told me it would not be covered because I had already pulled onto the street. WHAT A SCAM!!!!! I had to ask the front desk for my bill when I checked out and found over $200 in charges that I did not make and my room was charged as a suite when all we had was a dinky room. Then I had to argue with the front desk for 20 minutes to fix it. Stay away!!!
-
Review from Sally K.
San Francisco, CA
12/17/2007
Oh hi this is my favorite hotel in all of Miami Beach (my other reviews say the same thing. Basically any hotel on Collins is A+).
For starters, let me make something as clear as possible: Everyone (with the exception of maybe 2%) who frequents the Raleigh is drop dead gorgeous. I'm not just talking pretty face or a fancy hand bag. I'm talking this is where the women who get photographed in W magazine come to hang out. It's hard to compete. The bathrooms look like the backstage of a runway show during Fashion Week, not joking! Make sure you pack your monogrammed luggage set that was designed by Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton with your best and most amazing outfits and shoes. I'm so serious.
Ok, what else? Party, party, party.
The cafe is amazing, but the real action is down by the pool. There's a great DJ booth right behind the pool, and the entire time we were there (2 nights) they were playing the best music ever.
There are plenty of spots to run around and frolic at the Raleigh. Be careful if you're wearing stilettos and want to go towards the fire pit area, as it's very sandy and can ruin your shoes.
1 additional star for the 3AM models who decided it would be fun to start a trend and get into the pool naked. Ten minutes later and there were like thirty people in that thing! The next day we found out our friends (who we didn't even know were in town) took part in that action! Quite a site... -
Review from Esther G.
Miami Beach, FL
10/14/2008
Hands down, the Raleigh is my favorite place on South Beach. From the pool to the penthouse, it's the pinnacle of laid-back glamour. Everything is relaxed and welcoming. The staff are lovely and the setting evokes all the style and grace of the Art-Deco era .
I've never been blown away by the food but I love - love eating under the lantern-hung trees while looking out over the iconic pool. I love the sandy oasis dotted with seagrapes that stretches towards the beach. The comfy cabanas, the fire-pit, great Mojitos and some of the coolest events - Art Basel, Miami Swim, Chanel Cruise - make the Raleigh just about perfect. -
Review from Deven C.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
10/4/2009
What can I say about this landmark that hasn't already been said before? My company threw a reception here recently - everything went smoothly and the staff were well above the high expectations we had in store. It's always a pleasure to visit the Raleigh. Perfectly designed in almost every facet. Still has the best pool in all Miami Beach despite the fact it was built decades ago.
The same question always pops into my head every time I come here: "Why the hell don't I come here more often?" Good design, superb management. My favorite hotel in Miami Beach. -
Review from Deron D.
San Francisco, CA
7/13/2007
Here's my formula for a perfect Sunday in South Beach:
1. Roll out of bed around noon.
2. Head to Nikki Beach for their buffet style brunch/lunch. Enjoy the food, have a few drinks, and soak in the scene.
3. Power nap
4. Then it's off to the Raleigh hotel for the best Sunday chill scene in South Beach - bar none.
When you roll, say what's up to DJ Danny Stern and DJ Tavin. DJ Danny Stern spins during the day shift and Tavin takes over in the evening. They lay down some seriously chill house beats. I could go to the Raleigh just to hear them spin.
Beautiful ambiance with a surreal pool set against a beach bonfire.
Drinks are expensive, but not ridiculous for Sobe. Waitresses are saucy and usually pretty friendly. As far as the crowd, I can honestly say that I've had a few good conversations (for South Beach that says a lot). PLUS, they actually have places where you can sit down and not get harrassed to have bottle service.
If the main bar is too crowded, there's a smaller bar near the back of the hotel. Head there and you'll have no probs.
VERY IMPORTANT: When you go to restaurants and nice places like this in Miami, tip is AUTOMATICALLY included even when you buy a single drink at the bar (to a clip of 18% at that). Thank you non-tipping Europeans!Listed in: Cool Miami joints
-
Review from Maria A.
Miami, FL
7/2/2008 3 Check-ins Here
The Raleigh is your spot if you want an old Florida glamour feel, Esther Williams aka the star of The Million Dollar Mermaid used to hit this pool. Chanel hosted it's Cruise Collection here this year and had synchronized swimmers. The annual MIAMI SWIM shows are held here each July.
The outdoor cafe and pool area are beautiful and this summer there is a Friday happy hour.
The Raleigh is a sister hotel to The Standard, so guests can enjoy a world class spa and really great yoga classes, including the H2Om series.
If you're looking for a smaller but just as cool hotel on the beach then stay at The Raleigh.Listed in: South Beach Spots, Drinks, Classic/Old Miami
-
Review from Sadia B.
Montclair, NJ
4/27/2008
Very charming Art Deco property ideal for couples. Stayed here for a night in celebration of The Sexiest Man Alive's birthday. I'd forgotten it was hurricane season.
Our room wasn't ready when we arrived, so we checked our bags and took a stroll to Espanola Way, where we enjoyed the perfect rainy day breakfast at French eaterie, A La Folie. Front desk staff was sure to phone us just as our room became available an hour later; when I didn't answer their first, second, and third calls-- my ringer was off-- they didn't hesitate to make the fourth, fifth, and sixth calls. In succession. Now that's customer service?
We didn't get to pop wheelies on the Raleigh-branded Schwinn cruisers, or sing in the rain under the canopy of Raleigh-branded umbrellas, but we rather enjoyed having the property's legendary pool to ourselves, and indulging in a little poolside libation and fare; the margarita pitcher hit the spot, and the Kobe sliders and tuna taco chasers were supremely succulent and refreshingly well-seasoned, respectively.
So the elevators are dark and the rooms are a touch small-- such "flaws" only serve to compound the charm. -
Review from Katie S.
9/13/2009
This hotel is so sexy, if it doesn't turn you on you should schedule a physical.
Stretched out on a poolside chaise, sipping a frosty pomegranate margarita, you can almost see the ghosts of black-and-white movie stars rubbing elbows with of-the-moment rockers and runway models. The mini-bar is a buffet of temptation and vice: liquor, chocolate, playing cards, condoms, Marb reds, you name it. And that's only the beginning. From the glass-topped dresser to the unmarked, guest-only back entrance and room service that extends all the way out to the beach, the Raleigh nails every last detail.
Yes, it will cost you your 401k. And , no, it isn't over-priced. -
Review from daniel c.
Miami Beach, FL
9/7/2010
I went here for Brunch a couple of weeks ago. The food was very good. I had the eggs benedict. The eggs were cooked perfectly and the hollandaise sauce was made well and tasty. The hotel itself is gorgeous. Very old workd South Beach. The lobby is immaculate and the outdoor space is lush and comfortable.
I would like to go back for dinner soon! -
Review from Rob L.
Bay Area
10/1/2009
SERENE SANCTUARY IN THE MIDDLE OF SOUTH BEACH
We arrived during a lightning storm and drove up to the front of the majestic art deco Raleigh Hotel. We were quickly greeted by friendly valets who helped us with our luggage and whisked away our rental car.
We were escorted to lobby and were greeted by the front desk clerk. He said, "We are going to upgrade you to an ocean-view room." What a pleasant surprise! We were handed an old-fashioned key and boarded the dark art deco elevator to our room.
We entered our ocean-view room and relaxed immediately. We knew the rooms were going to be small but I was surprised how they maximized the space. The room had some cool features such as, an iPod docking station, flat-screen television, Kiehls bath products, live orchids, free wireless, and dimmer switches on all lighting fixtures. The mini bar was full of temptations such as Grey Goose vodka, wine, chocolates, and more. We opened the windows and took a late afternoon nap enjoying the warm ocean breeze and occasional sounds of thunder.
After our nap, we explored the lobby and outdoor pool area. This has to be one of the most beautiful pools in the world. It has gorgeous sweeping curves and is surrounded by private cabanas and lush greenery. We had a couple of drinks and just soaked up the laid back sophisticated atmosphere with chill out music playing in the background.
We were treated like celebrities during our entire stay and look forward to returning again. The hotel is such a refreshing oasis on the crazy South Beach strip. I recently read The Raleigh was sold; I hope the hotel maintains the same level of service. -
Review from Poma Celeste T.
Los Angeles, CA
12/23/2008
This very expensive hotel has terrible front desk and concierge guest service. I stayed here for 5 days last March and was terrified at the service I was provided given the money I was spending. At least my friends got to enjoy the beach and sun poolside. (Only perk)
The (only) nicest person there was the woman who was doing housekeeping. Everyone else treated me and my friends like we were wasting their time. -
Review from Dennis S.
11/11/2009
This is, in my opinion, THE place to stay in Miami Beach.
It's historic. It's classy - top of the line Art Deco. It's luxurious. It's right by the beach (you can walk from their pool out the back way onto the beach). Everything is within walking distance. Amenities are excellent, as is the service.
Miami Beach is not a destination for us. But if we need to be in this area, this is my #1 choice. You just know they're going to take good care of you here. -
Review from Sergio F.
3/7/2010
I had to wait to write the review after the great mojitos mentioned in my Quick Tip cleared my system, so here we go!
I met some friends at the Shelborne last night for Karaoke but was kind of hungry (and wanted to get some food in my system prior to drinks) I took a quick stroll next door to the Raleigh, since I had been unimpressed by Maxine / Catalina.
The dining room I saw looked like a Cuban cafeteria with the circular bar stools. While they still had the dinner menu out, the waitress was attentive enough to get me their "late night menu for a sandwich or burger. I decided on a chicken club sandwich and coke.
The chicken sandwich came on a toasted slice of sandwich bread, was juicy and not greasy. They listened to me and didnt put mayo on the sandwich. Neither were the fries. But here's the thing. My total bill came out to 54 dollars, including the automatic tip. Considering the 2 mojitos were $12 each, that means the chicken and fries were above $20. Yes it's the beach and an architectural gem of a hotel. But a $20 + chicken sandwich, while sitting in a seat that I expect to see on Calle 8 or Hialeah??? That, my friends, seems overpriced.
The mojitos were very strong and certainly worth their price and more..no complaints there since I was ready to sing afterwards. I guess next time I go to the Raleigh it will only be for drinks.Listed in: YummMOJITOS
-
Review from Gretchen T.
San Francisco, CA
3/29/2007 2 photos
*Didn't stay here, WMC only*
Love the sandy, cabana-y, palm tree-y "backyard" area. Take your shoes off and dance with unbridled abandon!Listed in: Salacious South Beach
-
Review from Rachel W.
Chicago, IL
6/16/2010
I absolutely LOVE the Raleigh. Everything about it is wonderful, from the staff to the accommodations, to the pool, and most importantly, the food.
This yr was the 2nd annual girls trip my mom and I went on, and stayed at the Raleigh again. It has a very low-key, relaxed vibe, it definitely isn't the wild young scene like at the W, but is perfect for some R & R. We always get the same giant mattress/bed by the pool, and read and lounge all day under the palm trees.
We always ordered lunch poolside, and their menu is amazing. Every day we got the arugula salad w/shaved parm, grilled chicken, avocado, and almonds. They do a housemade olive oil vinagrette and it's to die for. They also have incredible mini burgers, various salads, fish, shrimp cocktail, and a million other european fare options.
There is a gorgeous, tree & orchid covered dining area poolside; they actually have house-made muesli w/berries. We split this for breakfast every single day. I dream about that muesli.
I can't wait to go back. It's the perfect oasis and haven and I can't say enough about how amazing their food is. -
Review from Ellen H.
Chicago, IL
2/18/2009
I can't believe it's taken until now to proclaim my love for The Raleigh. I've been visiting The Raleigh since high school....so....for quite awhile. A favorite aunt and uncle would bring me here about once a year, through my senior year in college.
While I haven't stayed there since, I frequent the place every time I'm in Miami, which is usually at least once a year. This past week, while in Miami for work, was no exception. I was able to enjoy three long, relaxing meals -- a welcome escape during an immensely frenetic week.
Sitting under a canopy of palm trees with orchids tucked amid their trunks and lanterns dangling from their limbs...all while overlooking one of the most spectacular pools, you forget you're in South Beach (a good thing in my book). It's truly one of the most soothing locales on the planet.
I've always received impeccable service and the staff, always incredibly friendly. I'm a sucker for their soy lattes and oatmeal for breakfast and on my last visit had the most amazing grouper for dinner. The wine list is fantastic and their specialty cocktails are definitely worth a try.
The best part about The Raleigh is it's nothing like the rest of what you find on Collins. It's serene, peaceful, romantic and emits an old school Miami glamour. I will be back.
