Balfour, an iconic art deco gem in Miami Beach’s upscale South of Fifth enclave, debuts a new chapter as part of Morgans Originals, a collection of one-of-a-kind, independent hotels with an iconic cultural story.
As part of its revival, Balfour also introduces two new dining destinations: SoFi Coffee, a community-driven neighbourhood café set to launch later this summer, and Cleo, an Eastern Mediterranean concept that occupies the entire first floor of the historic Balfour building, with the exception of a small check-in area dedicated to hotel reception.
BALFOUR’S NEW CHAPTER
The 82-room boutique property has been refreshed by Miami based Bigtime Design Studios, in collaboration with Ennismore, to blend historic charm with modern comforts, and commands a coveted position on Miami Beach’s illustrious Ocean Drive within two art deco-style buildings connected by a lush tropical courtyard. Originally designed by celebrated Miami Beach architect Anton Skislewicz, the property first opened in 1940 as The Lord Balfour Hotel and has long stood as a mirror to Miami, a city known for its constant reinvention. Historical nods, such as carefully preserved original terrazzo flooring and gleaming brass elevator doors, combined with modern comforts and contemporary luxuries have transformed this hidden treasure into a destination where timeless design, local culture and social connections collide.
Each room is outfitted with rich hardwood or herringbone flooring, mid-century design elements and romantic art deco artwork commissioned by Mike Willcox, balancing historic sophistication with authentic local character. Accommodations range from serene Classic Rooms (with either one king or two queen beds) and sun-drenched Superior Rooms wrapped in green wainscoting to spacious Suites with white marble bathrooms and walk-in rain showers designed for longer stays or family travel,
including a Junior Suite with built-in bunk beds. Reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to sustainable, wellness-driven hospitality, all bathrooms feature branded waffle-textured embroidered robes and refillable vegan bath products from The Botanist & The Chemist for a refined sense of ritual.
Newly appointed, fully stocked in-room bar carts are equipped with Lavazza coffee machines, cocktail shakers, wine buckets and a premium selection of snacks and refreshments. Designed for pre-evening indulgences or quiet nights in, the bar carts offer guests the opportunity to explore Miami’s world-class cocktail scene at their leisure, crafting personalized drinks inspired by local flavours.
Hotel amenities include a refreshing plunge pool accented with original terracotta mosaic tiles, an open-air rooftop deck offering sweeping views of the city, complimentary bicycles, and more than 2,000 square feet of versatile event space to accommodate everything from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations.
CLEO
Cleo transforms the ground floor into a buzzing social hub that extends outside to Balfour’s lush courtyard and wraparound terrace. Helmed by award-winning Executive Chef Camila Olarte, previously sous chef at Thomas Keller’s The Surf Club, the restaurant invites guests to gather around wholesome, family-style dishes that celebrate the bold, diverse flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean. Blending art deco charm with the chic, inviting warmth of the Mediterranean, the restaurant captivates diners with a
unique blend of Old World cooking techniques and a warm, homey atmosphere.
SOFI COFFEE
SoFi Coffee will bring a hyperlocal layer to the South of Fifth neighbourhood, embodying Balfour’s continued evolution as a cultural living room. Situated steps from the famous Miami Beach Boardwalk, a scenic 7-mile pathway stretch along the southernmost point of South Beach, this Instagrammable café will offer a relaxed, refined haven that encourages conversation and connection.
For more information or to book accommodations, please visit www.balfourmiamibeach.com