History, opulence and elegance converge at 1116 Ocean Drive where The Villa By Barton G. reclaims its residence at the former Versace Mansion with the launch of a new Mediterranean restaurant, Il Sole, and luxury boutique hotel. Following news of the Nakash Family acquiring the iconic property for $41.5 million last September, they have brought in renowned events impresario and restaurateur Barton G. Weiss to manage the property which will allow guests an opportunity to get reacquainted with the former residence of famed fashion designer Gianni Versace.
Il Sole (Italian for “The Sun”) features an approachable Mediterranean-influenced menu, yet with refined elegance in a stunning intimate dining area featuring walls of pebble mosaics imported from Spain and a spectacular frescoed ceiling. Executive Chef Scott Linquist and Executive Pastry Chef Luis Vasquez are at the helm of the kitchen and feature dishes served on Versace-designed Rosenthal china including fish flown in daily from Honolulu that will include Pistachio Seared Hawaiian Ahi and Grilled Swordfish. Other dishes that are sure to be crowd pleasers include a Lobster Beet and Burrata Salad and Charred Calabrian Octopus. Signature entrées being served at Il Sole will be three cuts of a Moroccan-spiced Lamb Tagine and a Butter Poached Maine Lobster.
“Recalling our earlier days at The Villa, it is particularly gratifying to return and once again invite the community into this extraordinary landmark of hospitality,” said Weiss. “We are certain that under the innovative and expert culinary guidance of Chefs Linquist and Vasquez, and the pleasure of working with the Nakash Family, “Il Sole” will define itself as an exciting new entry into the arena of South Florida dining.”
Guests will also have an opportunity to book one of the ten palatial suites at the property which range from the 434 square-foot Medallion Suite which overlooks one of the most beautiful mosaics at the mansion to the stunning 1,428 square-foot Venus Suite which features two private balconies overlooking Ocean Drive and the mansion’s exemplary 54 foot long Thousand Mosaic swimming pool which is lined in 24 karat gold designed by Gianni Versace. Visitors who want to experience a piece of history can also book the 1,174 square-foot Villa Suite, Versace’s former bedroom, which features a nine-foot double king-size bed, two balconies, seven custom-made closets and an ornate oversized shower.
Each of the remarkable guest rooms features custom interiors, patios and balconies, along with king and double-king beds with custom Egyptian cotton linens, goose down pillows and duvets, and Italian marble bathrooms. Guests of the hotel will also gain exclusive access to the mansion’s two private lounges, including the seductive Moroccan Room, as well as entry to the lush Mosaic Gardens and the outdoor Thousand Mosaic swimming pool. In-room, poolside and rooftop spa services will also be launching at the property soon.
In addition to the new restaurant and hotel, The Villa By Barton G. is also currently available for weddings, corporate and private events, which can include guests entering the gated Villa for cocktails in the courtyard, followed by a private dinner at Il Sole or reception near the outdoor pool. With full-service event planning provided by Barton G., custom menus, decor and tenting is also available.
For reservations, guests can contact The Villa By Barton G. at 305.576.8003 or e-mail info@thevillabybartong.com. Dinner service at Il Sole is available Monday through Thursday at 6 pm to 10 pm, as well as on Friday and Saturday from 6 pm to 11pm. Room rates start at $795. For more information, visit http://thevillabybartong.com/.
