Glamorous, elegant and exceptional The Villa by Barton G on Ocean Drive in Miami’s swanky South Beach offers a bit of fashion world intrigue as the former residence where acclaimed fashion designer Gianni Versace lived and died. His ghost may not inhabit the mansion, but his spirit surely lives on.
Renowned events impresario and restaurateur Barton G.
Weiss reclaimed the mansion from its unfortunate past and opened it up for the world at large to enjoy. The best parts of Versace’s fashion genius were lovingly preserved, while modern-day amenities were added to indulge guests’ every need. Open to the public, visitors should feel no remorse while pampered in the wealth of 5 star-plus luxuries, or simply stop by the restaurant for a most impressive meal. The grounds alone are worth a visit, if only to witness the astonishing 54’ Thousand Mosaic Pool, which is lined in 24 karat gold, or the lushly landscaped Mosaic Garden with gorgeous walls of pebble mosaics.Memorable dining awaits guests and visitors alike in the critically acclaimed Il Sole, an exquisite Mediterranean restaurant. This intimate restaurant features mosaic walls and lush surroundings. Weiss joins with Executive Chef Scott Linquist and Executive Pastry Chef Santiago Puga to offer guests a refined Italian-focused menu that has a delicate Mediterranean influence. Signature dishes, served on Versace-Rosenthal china, include Rack of Lamb with Greek Yogurt Jelly Cubes and The Villa Salad with a smoking nitro Caesar dressing. Luncheon is served from 12pm – 2pm, while dinner hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 7pm – 10pm and Friday through Sunday from 7pm until 11pm. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Overnight guests have the choice of ten suites, each with patios, balconies and custom interiors, and three luxurious one-bedroom suites with breath-taking ocean views. The “Versace Experience” is a spacious 3200 square foot suite which encompasses Versace’s original living quarters. Overnight visits are enhanced by a dedicated staff of British-trained butlers who personally attend to guests throughout their stay. Ample amenities include Nightly Signature Nibbles and turndowns and guests often enjoy The Villa’s signature Indulgence Massage, an 80-minute four-handed massage which leaves recipients in a state of ultimate bliss.
There are two private lounges, the indoor G. Lounge, and a private Rooftop Lounge for star gazing or sun worshipping. Located in the heart of Miami’s celebrated Art Deco District, entertainment opportunities within easy walking distance of the gated mansion include art museums, shopping, nightclubs, and romantic strolls on the white sands of Miami Beach.
The Villa By Barton G. bills itself as the location “where Old World elegance is infused with New World style,” and that is certainly true. Anyone with a bucket list that includes the world’s most opulent locations has one more destination to add to their list.