Casa Faena is sister property to the lavish oceanfront Faena, the brainchild of flamboyant Argentinian hotelier Alan Faena, providing a more budget-friendly, boutique version of his over-the-top world. Casa Faena guests enjoy spacious rooms with custom furniture, dedicated beach service and a chic restaurant.
Location 7/10
Situated across the street from the beach on Collins Avenue, Casa Faena is part of a multi-block area just north of South Beach officially deemed the Faena District. It includes the oceanfront Faena hotel and condominium, as well as an art forum, shopping bazaar and the forthcoming Aman Miami Beach. It’s about a 20-minute walk to the heart of South Beach and an equally long drive to other popular neighborhoods like Wynwood, the Design District and Brickell.
Design 8/10
Situated inside a historic property that tows the line between Art Deco and Mediterranean Revival architecture, Casa Faena is styled as an eclectic Spanish villa with a breezy courtyard lobby. The symmetrical facade features archways and creamy white stucco with red trim, while interiors are styled with original Spanish tile floors, antique, handwoven rugs and plush furnishings. The lobby often hosts art exhibitions and site specific installations by local and international artists. It all has an air of understated luxury.
Amenities & Hospitality 7/10
Service is friendly, professional and anticipatory; guests enjoy a level of service more akin to a luxury hotel than a small boutique. Still, amenities are limited to dedicated beach service.
Rooms 9/10
Rooms are bright and airy in white with red accents ranging from crimson to blush. They feature extremely comfortable beds with beautiful custom wood four-poster frames, hand-woven throw blankets and pillows from Argentina in lovely floral designs for a homey, welcoming feeling.
Bathrooms are equally spacious with rainfall showers and many feature baths. Standard rooms are luxurious. Upgrading to a king suite comes with a private rooftop terrace.
“But… I wonder something… if we couldn’t… travel together, I mean just travel together?”
T. Lawrence Shannon in Tennessee Williams’s ‘The Night of the Iguana,’ 1961
Food & Beverage 8/10
Casa Faena is home to Campo, a restaurant with a global perspective and emphasis on wholesome, healthful dishes. It’s set inside a beautifully playful dining room with Spanish tile floors and mural work by Brazilian artist João Incerti. The menu features everything from sushi rolls to robata grill and sustainable and locally sourced entrees, like catch of the day and prime rib. A complimentary continental breakfast buffet is served here every morning and daily brunch service begins at noon.
Value 9/10
Rates from about $209 in low season and $449 in high.
The Bottom Line
An absolutely delightful stay with pretty, handcrafted rooms for a personal touch. Just above the South Beach fray, it’s a unique vantage on Miami Beach life.
Contact
3500 Collins Avenue; 305-604 8485; faena.com/casa-faena
