A Taste of the Mediterranean in Miami: The Social Club Reimagines Dining at the Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel
In the heart of South Beach’s iconic Art Deco district, The Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel has always promised more than just sun and style—it offers an experience. And this April, BELLA had the pleasure of being among the first to step into its most exciting chapter yet: the grand unveiling of the fully reimagined Social Club, the hotel’s signature restaurant, during an exclusive overnight media event fittingly titled Sleepover at Surf.
The evening began with a golden-hour tour of the refreshed property, followed by beachside cocktails and bites at High Tide Bar & Grill. But the true centerpiece was the night’s dinner—a culinary journey at the newly transformed Social Club, led by Executive Chef Gastón Javier.
A French Riviera Dream in the Heart of Miami
The Social Club’s redesign transports guests to the French Mediterranean, fusing coastal sophistication with the electric energy of Miami. Curated by Powerstrip Studio, the interiors marry cinematic Art Deco elements with Riviera charm—think Carrara marble tables, Prussian blue woodwork, and a gleaming bar that feels both glamorous and intimate. A gallery wall by local artist Cutmepasteme adds a playful, avant-garde edge, while the venue’s original 1940s terrazzo floors nod to the space’s historic soul.
A Culinary Experience Rooted in Storytelling
At the helm of The Social Club’s culinary evolution is Chef Gastón Javier, a South Florida native whose creative journey has taken him through the kitchens of Michelin-starred masters. His vision is bold, shareable, and deeply rooted in storytelling—each dish a thoughtful nod to both his heritage and the flavors of the Mediterranean coast.
The dinner showcased his signature style: from Caracoles, a luxurious twist on Burgundy snails in creamy pistou, to The Pearl, featuring seared scallop with heirloom corn custard and Nueske bacon, and the show-stopping Le Bufala, a bison short rib served with forest mushroom risotto and heirloom tomato jam. Every plate was artfully presented, designed to be shared and savored.
A standout moment was the introduction of the Mezzo Board, a beautifully arranged spread of pimento hummus, pistachio-mint whipped feta, avocado tzatziki, and za’atar pita—an invitation to gather, taste, and connect.
Morning Bliss and Poolside Indulgence
The next morning, guests were welcomed back to The Social Club for a decadent brunch at their leisure. Highlights included the indulgent 7 Seas Benedict with lobster and mango hollandaise, the savory Croque Monsieur, and the bold and playful Johnny Cash—corn custard pancakes topped with jumbo lump crab and smoked gouda. Paired with bottomless mimosas and a breezy cabana setup by the pool, the experience offered the perfect balance of relaxation and indulgence.
Beyond the Table: A Social Scene Reimagined
With a lineup of exciting new programming, The Social Club is more than just a restaurant—it’s a vibrant social destination. From Endless Cocktails Brunch and curated Happy Hours, to Friday Night Flights and the upcoming Omakase a lo Cubano dinners, Chef Javier and Director of Restaurants & Bars Luis Rios are creating an environment where guests can not only dine, but experience something memorable.
As General Manager Mohan Koka describes it, “The Social Club’s transformation is an ode to the effortless elegance of the South of France while maintaining the inviting, convivial energy that has made it a Miami Beach favorite.”
Where Culinary Art Meets Coastal Glamour
Whether you’re a local looking for your next date-night gem, a traveler craving flavors that surprise and delight, or a bride-to-be seeking a stylish setting for your next celebration—The Social Club at Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel delivers a dining experience that’s as chic as it is soulful.
For more, visit Surfcomber.com.