The Villa Casa Casuarina

Third visit to this restaurant and definitely the last one To start with, the hostess (inside the restaurant) was having a private conversation with a friend thus completely ignoring us. After three minutes, she said: oh sorry! as if she had not been aware of our presence. Then we were shown to our table, not in the main area close to the pool, but in the other room between two windows, absolutely no view. I had booked stating that it was a double anniversary and that it would be nice to have a table close to the pool. So I refused this place and eventually got a nice one. As for the food : the appetizers were OK, but I had chosen chicken Milanese for the main course and it was as dry as a shoe sole and could not eat it. They probably cook it early in the morning and reheat it later. This restaurant is like a big canteen, the tables are really closed to one another, and they have completely given up the dress code. Lots of the patrons come straight from the beach with flip flops, and I even saw a woman with a baseball cap, worn backwards, really appalling in such a nice place I had been looking forward to this meal and it’s been a terrible disappointment.

I know there are some poor reviews for this restaurant, but I could honestly say we had a great experience! The restaurant is really lovely and the set menu at 38 dollars is brilliant value and the food was very nice. If you are a Versace fan then ignore the critical reviews and go for it! We didn't stay so can't comment on accommodation.

Reviewing The Villa Casa Casuarina, forever etched in my memory as The Versace Mansion, feels like an impossible task. How does one do justice to an experience of a lifetime? From the moment I held the brass key in my hand, I knew this was no ordinary stay. Greeted by my personal valet—butler (titles blur when service transcends expectations)—I found my bags unpacked, my clothes beautifully hung, and my every need anticipated. The mansion itself is a masterpiece. By day, the grounds exude magic, each corner brimming with beauty and history. By night, the lighting transforms the property into an epic romance—soft glows and shadows creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. The bar, adorned with 14-karat gold inlaid floor tiles, is a sparkling indulgence, while the interior architecture is nothing short of breathtaking. Every room is a revelation. The 12-foot-wide bed draped in red satin, a favorite of Elton John and Paul McCartney, was a sanctuary of luxury. Arriving to find a chocolate choo-choo train laden with treats in my room was an unexpected delight. The living room, rich in detail and comfort, was impossible to leave, as was the magnificent bathroom with its exquisite showers—every element designed to pamper and inspire awe. Dining at The Villa Casa Casuarina is a sensory journey. Seated on the patio surrounded by the romance of fountains, the soft hum of music, and an array of savory creations that redefine perfection, I was immersed in an ambiance of pure enchantment. The service, flawless and attentive, elevated the experience to heavenly heights. The Villa Casa Casuarina is not just a place to stay; it’s a world unto itself—a symphony of history, luxury, and artistry. Even after days of reflecting on my visit, I know I’ve only scratched the surface. It was, in every way, an experience of a lifetime.

DO NOT RECOMMEND GOING HERE FOR LUNCH. Overpriced, overhyped. Horrible staff and manager - restaurant was over crowded and we had to wait 30 mins to be seated even after we made lunch reservations and were seated off to the side in a barriered off area. Half the menu was unavailable because they “ran out” of pizza, salads, pastas and even dessert options so as vegetarians we paid over $300 for salad leaves and a some very sorry sorbet (ice shavings with a lemon syrup drizzled on top). The servers were slow, tired and not attentive or accommodating and when we mentioned our measly meal to the restaurant manager his reply was “oh, ok.. well that will be $$$ are you paying by card or cash?” Will not be returning, will not recommend.

We had chicken for lunch, and it was good. Came with potatoes and sauce, so we became full. But price is very high, and not one smile from the staff. The interior is the best part, with mosaic tiles and a pool. Location on South Beach with easy access.