BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB  

 

A TASTE OF PARADISE ……….

Story and Some Photos By: Robin Roth

 

I have been writing about hotels for more years than I would like to admit.

 

There are some hotels that are known for being comfortable and hospitable; some are elegant and classic, while some are best known for being modern and chic. There are some hotels that truly make guests feel so very much at home, while others have that sun-and-fun getaway feel along with an aura of tranquility and well-being. Then, there are some hotels that are just filled with class and give their guests an all around sensation of being totally pampered. Well, I have discovered ‘THE’ hotel that brings it all, The Boca Raton Resort and Club. I would like to be calm and refrain from going overboard here but, in fact, I would find that an impossible task. Travelers I say, with all my heart, welcome to Paradise! From the moment you enter its doors you immediately realize that you have arrived into a very special world of opulence and class. I would have to say this is one of my favorite resorts in the world and for so many reasons.

 

The legendary multi award-winning Boca Raton Resort and Club presents a fresh, cutting edge approach to hospitality in a timeless lavish setting, with infinite possibilities of fabulous. The staff is warm, friendly, and at all times helpful and eager to please. While staying at the resort, I absolutely experienced and enjoyed complete luxury and received effortless satisfaction to my every need. I entered into an easy and care free world where all reality and daily stress seemed to fade away. 

 Tracing its origins to the vision of legendary architect Addison Mizner, the hotel redefines classic style and sophistication that is infused with a modern sense of warmth and style. Dreamers, risk-takers, moguls, and millionaires all contributed to the creation of Florida's Boca Raton and the stellar Boca Raton Resort & Club. This is, without a doubt, The ‘IT’ resort destination and elegant place to play and have a ball.

 

 

 This magical resort is an icon of a hotel filled with pure charm for more than 80 years, and without a doubt, remains faithful to its glamorous past. However, with its recent facelift of $220 million in renovations, it now possesses a vibrant new energy that offers infinite immensities, luxuries, and activities making this the most awesome one-stop all around vacation spot I have found in years. After experiencing the 356-acre Boca Raton Resort & Club first hand, it is obvious why it is one of the country’s premier resort locations and private club facilities. The  amenities include: a half-mile stretch of private beach (which puts you in a vacation mood instantly), the acclaimed Spa Palazzo (talk about plush), two 18-hole championship golf courses and a golf clubhouse (which would impress any avid golfer including myself), the famed Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, one of the country’s top tennis programs with 30 tennis courts and the Chris Evert Adult and Junior Academy, full-service marina, seven swimming pools, (the hard part was picking just one to bask around) three state-of-the-art fitness centers and a variety of water sports. Other Recreation activities on the grounds are bicycling, croquet, volleyball, and basketball.

 

 

 

 The hotel also features a large variety of really fun family activities as well as children’s programs. Can you believe, I got kicked out of the children’s program for trying to impersonate a kid? I thought I could pass!

The Camp Boca program is a supervised daily service and recreational program, available year-round and geared specifically to each of two distinct age groups - Boca Tots (ages 3-5) and Boca Bunch (ages 6-11), how cool is that?!

 

 

The resort offers an absolutely outstanding selection of world-class dining (which I will get into later). For business needs, there is more than 150,000 square feet of meeting and event space. This is the most excellent location for any type of business events you will find anywhere. If you have to work, this is the place to do it.

The resort also offers, the Boca Country Club, a 32-slip marina with full fishing and boating facilities, and a half-mile of private beach with water sports.

 As I walked around the endless awe-inspiring grounds, it was evident that every vision my eyes took in was breathtaking and gorgeous; from the ocean and intercostals, to the yachts, gardens, golf courses, and swimming areas, to the total beauty of the hotel itself. It is no wonder that it is chosen for countless photo shoots for magazines, film, and television locations each year. It is also, the ideal place for a wedding. Well now, I am dreaming!

  

 

 

With the modern and contemporary feel of an Italian piazza, the newly renovated stunning Palm Court with its spectacular ceiling gives the illusion of a glass canopy designed to capture an abundance of natural light. In addition, the newly designed lobby, French artist-architect Thierry Despont has created a “return to casual life in a stylish and graceful environment” drawing on Mizner’s own DNA.

What I found most astonishing about the resort, is its variety in accommodations. If you can’t find your dream hotel here, then it doesn’t exist at all. The variety and range of décors display a diversity of amazing ambience. Five styles of accommodation cater to personal preferences by offering options in size, setting, decorative design, rate, and access to resort amenities. They range from elegant to traditional, to modern, to chic and relaxing. So, allow me to give you the quick tour. First, I would like to tell you about my personal favorite…

The Yacht Club:

I was totally in heaven at the plush yacht club. Everything about it makes it ‘MY’ happy place. With its truly elegant décor inspired by a Venetian palace, the 112 deluxe guestrooms and suites are situated on the spectacular Intracoastal Waterway. All of these rooms are waterfront and feature large private balconies. I found my balcony quite delightful and peaceful allowing for relaxing and memorable serene moments. Very romantic I might add, too bad I was alone. Touches of luxury include the rich custom furnishings featuring an awesome canopy bed, sitting parlor, and marble and granite bath with plush cozy bedding. This room is simply divine. Furthermore, and one of my favorite luxuries of this section of the resort, is the exclusive concierge level which provides even more upgraded amenities. The Commodore Club offers a full staff of concierge to assist with guest arrangements. No matter how many requests I made, they were delivered with care and a smile. Access to the exclusive Commodore Club, which is a posh concierge lounge located on the eighth floor, is available to those staying in concierge-level accommodations. This exclusive private lounge provides five complimentary yummy meal presentations daily, as well as evening hors d'oeuvres. This part of the resort is fit for royalty. Oh, let us not forget the on-call butler service (and who wouldn’t love this).

   

The Tower:   

I loved the stunning tower with its classic warm décor and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, and panoramic views of the golf course. I felt so totally at home in this part of the resort. My suite had a country French décor. It was tasteful, cozy, and inviting. Everything a traveler could want was provided in these rooms. The tower rises 27 stories above lovely sprawling grounds and gardens. It was thrilling to look down to see all of this beauty. There are 244 deluxe guestrooms, inclusive of 76 junior suites and 14 suites. Any traveler seasoned or otherwise would delight in staying in the tower rooms.

 

 

 Boca Beach Club: 

This luxury boutique hotel combines a sleek, modern, chic, clean decor with a strong European influence without losing the style and spirit of South Florida, ( Led by noted London-based interior designer Fiona Thompson of Richmond International ). The spectacular brand new Beach Club, is at the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, and has 212 alluring, custom-designed rooms including nine ocean vista suites. Staying in the beach club, I felt a high level of comfort and style. Everything in the club has an open, fresh, contemporary feel to it. I completely enjoyed the unique opportunity to experience a panoramic ocean view right below my window, and the half mile of private beach that I enjoyed frolicking in barefoot, and its colorful cabanas. This is a marvelous part of the resort for honeymooners and families, which is, well in a word…awesome. Everywhere you look is white, chrome, and new, which comes off to one’s senses as pleasing, attractive, and appealing. This part of the resort is quite cool. 

 

The Cloister:

Built in 1926 and newly refreshed, the signature center of the Resort and Club world, are the ultra comfortable guest rooms that are located in the historic section of the resort. They have a soft blend of classic elegance and modern amenities with a Spanish-Mediterranean-style art and architecture décor with Moorish and Gothic influences enveloped in historic charm, style, sensibility, and conveniences. The cloisters are set amid lush hidden tropical gardens, barrel tile roofs, archways, ornate columns, finials, intricate mosaics, fountains and beamed ceilings of ornate cypress. The Cloister has 359 guest rooms and suites where historical ambiance blends flawlessly with modern comforts and touches. This is a very unique part of the resort.

 

 

 

 Private Residence Bungalows:

Here would be the most ideal place in the resort for a longer stay, especially with a family. It has a casual, easy-going residential-style accommodation with the luxury of a first class hotel. There are 60 fully furnished, two-bedroom apartments, located on the edge of the resort’s rolling fairways and manicured greens, which is particularly nice for the avid golfers. These private residences are also furnished with full modern kitchens.

PS, I slept like a baby in the Luxurious Italian bedding, featuring Filidoro linens in all of the accommodations in the resort.

Now, don’t even get me started on the Spa Palazzo…

As a spa fanatic, I know and have experienced the best of the best and Spa Palazzo, not only defines luxury, but demonstrates opulence, extravagance, and lavish pampering unprecedented…The spa is dramatically styled after the ambience of Spain’s legendary Alhambra Palace. The ritual baths are inspired by Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon’s search for the mystical fountain that could cure illness and restore youth. As far as I am concerned, it really is a perfect sanctuary of health and well being. Here is THE place to relax and revitalize your world. The spa offers every treatment you could or would ever desire with up-to-the-minute techniques, product, and professionalism. The 50,000-square-foot Spa Palazzo features 44 treatment rooms, a luxurious wet room, palatial gardens, and a vast menu of treatments. I must admit, I spent a lot of time spoiling myself here. Don’t miss this spa!

Another impressive point of information on the resort is there are three state-of-the-art fitness centers filled with all the latest equipment featuring a full complement of cardiovascular and weight training equipment, exercise studio, and a variety of aerobic and toning classes. Thank goodness as you will be spending much needed time here if you want to splurge in all of the restaurants and believe me when I tell you that, you will want to splurge.

 

Dining at the resort, where do I begin?

The numerous dining options at the Boca Raton Resort and Club will NO DOUBT satisfy the most discriminating tastes and palates of any and all of its guests and members from children to adults to me! The resort offers a wide variety of dining styles and choices in luxurious settings. From the most elegant world-class culinary options to the most casual, relaxed, and fun dining experiences, you will find it here.

With seasoned talents of more than 19 chefs in 18 on-site kitchens and bakeries, the Resort & Club’s has a veteran culinary team. Under the direction of Executive Chef Andrew Roenbeck – there are diversified, innovative menus in its 16 dining and entertainment venues, including room service for more than 1,000 guest accommodations, banquet service for an average of 1,800 guests per day, and a private club dining room. That said lets begin:

Morimoto Sushi Bar:

Masaharu Morimoto of “Iron Chef” fame opened this elegant Sushi Bar. The distinctive décor, inspired by an ocean theme, features three sushi chef stations and 32 seats. The sushi master’s unique cuisine is characterized by his distinctive Japanese roots and colorful combinations of ingredients. Morimoto beer, sochu, sake and specialty martinis are also served. This is a perfect dining spot for the sushi lover.

 

 

Serendipity:

This restaurant is the delightful eating stop for a lighter, causal, and fun dining experience. Serendipity is New York City’s legendary and exciting dessert restaurant (remember the films Serendipity and One Fine Day, well they were filmed here) and is now in Boca. With their world-famous Frozen Hot Chocolate (an absolute must, so forget about the calories), ice cream sprinkled with candy morsels, Willy Wonka-like treats, yummy fries, chili, sandwiches, and a family-friendly menu will not only please your children but make you feel like a child again as well. Whimsical, light, and carefree, the décor has a playful color scheme with ice cream and candy colors with seating for 47. With an ambience as pleasurable as the food, truly devoted dessert decadent junkies won’t want to miss this eating experience. Serendipity is one big YUM! I adore this place.

 

 

 

Palm Court  

Conceived by French artist-architect Thierry Despont, the Palm Court is a sophisticated and energetic space that achieves masterful architectural function and form. Renovations of the Palm Court include a complete redesign of the once open-air space into an area covered by a transparent roof. With a colorful courtyard design and natural landscaping, the spectacular Palm Court is a really cool setting to enjoy cocktails, light fare menu, and nightly entertainment. Ladies, this is the perfect location to just relax and unwind after a strenuous day of ‘Shop-till-you-drop therapy’…

 

 

  

Cielo:

This is one of my favorite restaurants in the resort or anywhere for that matter. The stunning intimate, contemporary, chic, and sophisticated restaurant is located on the 27^th floor of the Tower which overlooks a spectacular panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercostals. Michelin-star rated Chef, Angela Hartnett, one of the most high profile women in the restaurant world and a partner of Gordon Ramsay, launched her first U.S. restaurant at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. This is truly one of my favorite restaurants in the world. You know this is an exceptional and unique place the moment you step out of the elevator into its spectacular dramatic setting featuring a glass illuminated floor. I was treated like a princess and catered to the whole evening by the charming general manager Andy Patton, my classy server Rafael Camacho, and the elegant assistant manager Roberto Colombi, for which I am grateful.

 

      

 

The bar is backed with a frosted glass wine rack with floating wine bottles and an onyx bar top.  A Chef’s Table and cocktail bar serves Spanish-style tapas to those looking for a lighter menu. I felt so cozy and comfortable dining the whole evening sitting in the Alcove curved banquette seating with soft furry pillows and shimmering curtains.

The menu is strongly influenced by Angela’s Italian roots, which was great with me as I loved everything I experienced.  I would love to tell you some of the selections created by Chef Ned Ja Whar that will remain in my food memory forever….

For starters; I suggest the Foie gras torchon, to die for! The handmade tortelli of oven roasted pumpkin was divine as was the signature dish of penne pasta Bolognese which was a celebration of Italian bold flavors for my taste buds.

 

 

For the entrée: The trio of duck, the oven roasted fillet of beef, and the veal tenderloin  were all sensational and presented as beautifully and creatively as it tasted.

       

 

Dessert:  is a party in and of itself at Cielo. I say get them all and let yourself, go for a change.

If you find that thought too challenging then let me narrow it down. The rum panna cotta, the Bailey’s crème brulee and the dark chocolate ganache will end your evening in heaven.

   

P.S. don’t forget to sample one of their specialty drinks and vast selection of wines from around the world.

 

Lucca:

Lucca, conceived as a “modern Tuscan villa,” seems to celebrate the essence and spirit of the Mediterranean. It evokes the heart of “comfort” food, landscape, colors, and architecture of northern Italy’s romantic region.

Named after Italy’s famed walled city, the restaurant features water views and impressive styling, a 27-foot-wide arched open hearth, and an exhibition kitchen with a wood-burning oven framed by a hand-glazed, ceramic-tile mural. Lucca’s private Chef’s Table dining room are appointed with hand-blown glass chandeliers, rich woods and textured fabrics to create genuine, relaxing, Tuscan-style dining. If you are looking for outstanding, authentic, Italian cuisine, with a warm cozy atmosphere, Lucca is your happy place.

 

 

 

 

Old Homestead Steak House 

Established in 1868 in New York’s Meatpacking District, Old Homestead features an impressive menu of beef and an award-winning collection of wines, and is a longtime favorite of locals. One of the restaurant’s trademarks is their unique aging process, which calls for a three-week dry aging of beef with a special blend of herbs, followed by a week of wet aging, resulting in what are often called the industry’s top steaks. If you are a vegetarian, or just not in the mood for meat, Old Homestead has a large selection of seafood dishes such as the restaurant’s Titanic Shrimp. I enjoyed a most memorable lunch at the steak house. I totally recommend the Avocado stuffed with lobster salad, so yummy and a vision in-and-of-itself, just to look at. The tasty and tender, perfectly cooked filet mignon with fries was succulent as well. To end your dining occasion, go with the chocolate cake and or the various soufflés…

 

        

 

 If you are watching calories (I say forget about that idea!), go with the mixture of fresh berries. This restaurant is an absolute jewel.  Beware, the staff members are quite charming and handsome, which somehow adds some spice to the already wonderful food.

 

 

The Cathedral

I felt so welcomed and pampered in grand style at the Resort & Club’s original Old-World formal dining room, overlooking breathtaking views of the Intracoastal. A breakfast buffet extraordinaire is prepared in this regal historic setting as well– a spectacular array of hundreds of delectable cold and hot entrees, fruits, salads, cereals, fresh baked breads, pastries, and made-to-order omelets and waffles. This is a must dining stop while at the resort.

 

SeaGrille Restaurant

Casual, comfortable, yet chic, The SeaGrille overlooks  the Atlantic Ocean from the third-floor lobby level of the Beach Club, this new restaurant, with both indoor and outdoor seating, is a mix of fine dining and casual elegance featuring outstanding wines by the glass, fresh fish, seasonal soups, and salads.  

 

Casual Dining

Gazebo Bar & Grill:  Open-air poolside bar serves light fare and specialty drinks daily; children’s menu available.

Mulligan’s:  With views of the rolling greens and the 18^th hole, this is a sporty outdoor snack bar and a perfect spot for light breakfast, lunch and beverages after a round of golf or a game of tennis.

The Grille Room: Ideal place to relax and enjoy sandwiches, soups and salads.

Beaches Bar and Café Here is where you can enjoy the sun and just hang out just steps from the Atlantic Pool and the ocean beyond. I enjoyed many cold drinks and yes many cocktails here as well as some sandwiches, but there are also salads, hot dogs and burgers.

 

Lounges

Mizner’s Monkey Bar

Bar Luna

Ocean Bar

The new 24-hour Family Room, offering a multi-purpose space for relaxing and visiting with friends and family.  Accented with a dramatic indoor water fountain and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the original Cloister Garden, the space is furnished with large, overstuffed couches and chairs, flat-screen televisions, and tables perfect for puzzles and board games. Additionally, Interior Designer Alexandra Champalimaud created a magnificent redesign of the Boca Bungalows, which emulates a sense of style that is reminiscent of 1950’s Hollywood Glamour. 

For the green conscience, you will be happy to know that the resort is quite GREEN as well. The hotel possesses green ecological concerns and wants to help protect the natural resources of our planet. They use recyclable materials as much as possible. The try to use as much low energy consumption as possible and recycles rain water back into Lake Boca. Bed linens are changed every third day to save water unless requested otherwise. Their amenities are all green as well, and I might add fabulous. The resort states, “We want to make a difference.” I wish more establishments felt this way. 

Location, location, location! Within five miles of the resort are: Town Center Shopping Mall, The Royal Palm Plaza and Mizner Park, which all offer many fine stores and boutiques. There is always time for shopping… I’m just sayin’!

Nearby, are more fun activities to partake in as well; At Royal Palm Polo Grounds, there is weekly polo January through April. Cultural attractions include the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. Eco-tourism adventures include airboat rides through the Everglades, hands-on interactive displays at Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, and a variety of parks and beaches.

Don’t’ forget to check out the Resort & Club's fine collection of shops and boutiques. I know I did a little too much checking out myself.

Also available to guests is state-of-the-art office equipment including computers, modem usage, laser printers and cellular phones and complete FedEx, Kinko’s Business Center. A team of information technology technicians offer 24-hour service to guests needing Internet, computer and telecommunications assistance.

Laundry and valet, room service, concierge, beauty salon, barber shop, valet parking and  transportation desk, safe deposit boxes

 

About the resort:

LXR Luxury Resorts is a collection of renowned, independent resorts and hotels located in preferred destinations around the world and an affiliate of The Blackstone Group, a private investment banking firm. Exclusive membership at the Boca Raton Resort & Club, offers a combination of social and recreational privileges, as well as access to the property's private facilities, amenities and services.1,047 deluxe guestrooms inclusive of 58 suites, 76 junior suites and 60 one-bedroom Boca bungalows. All of the accommodations feature deluxe guestroom amenities as well. The resort has joined the Waldorf-Astoria Collection, a world-class group of hotels in spectacular locations. Inspired by New York’s legendary landmark, each hotel has its own unique style and sense of place. For more info visit: www.waldorfastoriacollection.com.

 

One thing for absolute certain, it is no wonder why the rich and famous frequent this resort. No wonder in deed! Lucky for the rest of us, that simply vacationing at the Boca Raton Resort and Club will make you feel and be treated like a super star. I loved this resort and rate it an A+ on every level… It is the total fun in the sun package tied up in the classiest and most charming bow.

 

        

 

 

For reservations, call the Boca Raton Resort & Club at (888) 495-BOCA or (561) 447-3000, or contact your travel professional. Information is also available on the Resort & Club’s Web site: www.bocaresort.com.

I would be remiss if I didn't  thank the absolutely amazing Carole Boucard, for her help and assistance in this review.  Ms. Boucard is the  Director of Public Relations for the Boca Raton Resort and Club and what a truly stellar job she does. It is quite evident that she loves her position as everything she did and said to represent the resort was described to me with such joy, excitement and total pride. I  feel that the resort is lucky to have her. Thank you Carole for making my job a pleasure!