The Delano reopened in June 2026 but is far from its old customer service levels and grandeur. Having stayed many times since 2005 it did not meet expectations for my birthday trip this year.
The outsourcing of pool and beach service to third parties, as well as the lack of integration with the restaurants and bars inside create an inconsistent guest experience and the whole property feels like a "nickel and diming" opportunity.The building, rooms and grounds are beautifully maintained and lovely. Hotel staff are nice and helpful, but limited in what they can do given the decentralization of services to third parties. Some examples - Pool is overcrowded and even at 10am it was impossible to get any chairs as paying hotel guests. The only option guests have is to pay additional fees to reserve chairs in advance (400$ for 2) or pay 1500$ for a cabana. Pool food is limited with small portions with South Beach prices (salad for 38$). Beach service takes forever, with one server for the whole section on a Saturday. We waited 75 min for fries and broccolini. When they booked dinner for us at the wrong time, they were unable to get the restaurant GiGi to change it, as they were overbooked. Breakfast was uninspired with lackluster service. Complaints are greeted with a smile, but not addressed. Disappointing experience at an inflated price.