Nestled in Delray Beach’s Pineapple Grove Arts District, The Ray, a Curio Collection by Hilton, ushers in a new standard of boutique hotel.
The chic interior of Ember Grill, courtesy of design group Studio Munge
One glance at The Ray’s exterior and it’s wildly evident this is no ordinary stay. Spearheaded by Menin Development, the Delray Beach space evokes a coastal hometown charm alongside unique and luxurious offerings. “We wanted to create a boutique hotel experience that maintained the history and charm that so many people have come to know the area for,” says CEO Craig Menin. “We truly care about the development of Delray Beach, and who better to create new ways to feed South Florida’s growth while maintaining the local character than a company that has long-standing roots in the community?” Plus, as a member of the Curio Collection by Hilton, The Ray ensures distinctive yet authentic stays complete with riveting local discoveries.
Nosh on Ember Grill’s reimagined classics such as lobster ravioli with sweet corn.
One glance at The Ray’s exterior and it’s wildly evident this is no ordinary stay. Spearheaded by Menin Development, the Delray Beach space evokes a coastal hometown charm alongside unique and luxurious offerings. “We wanted to create a boutique hotel experience that maintained the history and charm that so many people have come to know the area for,” says CEO Craig Menin. “We truly care about the development of Delray Beach, and who better to create new ways to feed South Florida’s growth while maintaining the local character than a company that has long-standing roots in the community?” Plus, as a member of the Curio Collection by Hilton, The Ray ensures distinctive yet authentic stays complete with riveting local discoveries.
The Rosewater Lounge designed by Studio Munge
The hotel’s emulation of Delray Beach throughout the property is executed flawlessly, most notably in the design’s bold tropical modern aesthetic. With massive living walls, multiple rooftops gardens, large-scale sculptures and immersive art installations, The Ray effortlessly transforms even the simplest of stays into a lush equatorial paradise. The biophilic design comes courtesy of Gonzalez Architects, with principal architect Jose Gonzalez at the helm. “The tropical modern design is inspired by our climate and the concept that buildings should be a mirror of their environment,” he remarks. “The idea was to marry a lifestyle concept for hospitality that reflected our beautiful Delray Beach location.”
Ember Grill’s Surprise Peking Duck
Inside, each of the hotel’s 141 guest rooms and suites boast a modern, eclectic design highlighting custom-made furniture, handwoven rugs, beadboard paneling and handcrafted marble wainscotting, invoking a relaxed, cozy beachside feel. Expect state-of-the-art technology, such as digital key entry, energy-efficient lighting control, mobile device control for TV and room service, as well as a textable concierge service designed for booking last-minute reservations, surf lessons or personalized excursions. Complimentary room amenities include napworthy Eucalyptus linens, Frette bath towels and robes, premier Waterworks fixtures, indulgent Byredo bath products and a curated minibar with premium spirits and beverages. Additional offerings include 45,000 square feet of indoor-outdoor event space encompassing a “floating” glass cube, 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center and complimentary services such as golf cart transportation or beach chairs and umbrellas.
Pamper yourself with a relaxing day spent by the rooftop pool.
Scattered throughout the property are three delectable dining experiences guaranteed to satisfy any appetite. Ember Grill, overseen by executive chef Joe Zanelli, pays homage to the classic American grill, serving reimagined classics alongside thoughtfully paired cocktails. Says Craig O’Keefe of Clique Hospitality, “Guests can expect a modern twist on the traditional neighborhood grill decorated in effervescent and friendly South Florida style.” Standout entrees include the sumptuous Surprise Peking Duck and The Ember Angus Burger. Modern Japanese cuisine concept Akira Back is set to debut this fall, featuring curated small plates crafted by the namesake Michelin-starred chef. Nosh on mouthwatering menu items inspired by executive chef Back’s Korean heritage, adventurous spirit and world travels. Lastly, head to the roof for one of Delray Beach’s largest outdoor dining venues, Rosewater Rooftop, also overseen by chef Zanelli. With 22,000 square feet comprising the restaurant, bar and lounge, the indoor-outdoor space presents global street cuisine, shareable small plates, an over-the-top craft cocktail program and a poolside menu (think smashed avocado toast and inventive sushi) during the day. Surround yourself in the glamorous scenery of baldachins, oversize umbrellas, trellises and pergolas overlooking downtown Delray Beach, sip a craft cocktail or two and rest easy in the fact that you’re in actual paradise. Rooms $249-$500, 233 NE Second Ave., Delray Beach
Photography by: By Studio Munge; courtesy of Menin and The Ray
