The Balfour Hotel Miami Beach, a historic art deco property managed by Highgate, is undergoing a significant transformation in its food and beverage offerings with the appointment of Chef Antony Awak and Lead Mixologist Alberto Montesino.
Chef Antony Awak, hailing from Caracas and Maracay, brings a wealth of culinary experience to the team. Inspired by his grandmother and mother’s rich cultural dishes, Awak has previously worked at luxury hotels and restaurants, including Groot Hospitality and Highgate hotels in Miami Beach. His expertise as a senior sous chef and his leadership skills make him a valuable addition to The Balfour Hotel.
Awak expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m thrilled to be a part of The Balfour Hotel team and incorporate my passion for diverse cuisines. I’ve developed a mastery for crafting dishes rich with cultural influences and am looking forward to bringing a fresh perspective with new flavors that will elevate The Balfour’s culinary experience.”
Alberto Montesino, the Lead Mixologist, has a captivating journey from Havana, Cuba, to the Canary Islands, Spain. His passion for mixology was sparked during his adolescence, leading him to study tourism at the Official School of Tourism in the Canary Islands. Montesino’s mixology skills were honed at the Gran Hotel Bahia del Duque in Tenerife. He is excited to bring his expertise in tailoring flavors and creating innovative cocktails to redefine The Balfour’s bar experience.
Montesino shared his journey, stating, “First experiencing the dynamic energy of the hospitality industry in my adolescence, I was drawn to pursue a career as a mixologist, and am thrilled to craft a fusion of bold flavors and innovative cocktails that redefine The Balfour’s bar experience.”
The hotel’s restaurant and bar, accessible through a wrap-around terrace with ample outdoor seating overlooking Ocean Drive, provide a unique atmosphere. The dining room, featuring the original marble fireplace and terrazzo flooring, serves as the social hub, celebrating Miami’s diverse cultural scene with rattan furniture, tropical prints, warm hues, and local art from Gustavo Oviedo.
The Balfour Hotel is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Monday through Sunday from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. Located at 350 Ocean Drive in Miami Beach, you can find more information on their website (thebalfourmiamibeach.com), or contact them at 305.538.1055. Stay connected with the hotel’s updates on Facebook and Instagram.
