PREY at 1 Hotel South Beach

It’s a beautiful rooftop, but the cocktail was the worst I’ve ever had. Literally. In my entire life. And it was $ 18. They were nice about remixing it, but the second round was pretty terrible, too.
Brought food to the table that we did not order, and were generally nice but kind of a hot mess. Sorry to say it, but thumbs down on this one. Two stars for the venue and for being pleasant. No stars for the drinks.

This place is obviously a bit of a hot spot. It’s great for people watching, seeing, and being seen. The music is good, the vibe is right, and the atmosphere is pleasant. However, for actual service, drinks, and food, I really am at a loss for words.
First off, I refuse to drink single malt scotch out of a plastic cup. I don’t care if there’s a pool or whatever, figure it out.
Secondly, we had to flag two different servers down to ask for wasabi/​ginger/​soy sauce for our sushi. I thought these were pretty standard accompaniments?
Thirdly, I do not care to be rushed to pay. I will leave at my own good will.

Do you want to impress an out of towner? then def take them here… I am a local and I was even impressed! The rooftop bar is breathtaking, the lounge feel and the décor is quite chic. We went on a Thursday night so it wasn’t too busy but we were able to walk around the pool area and enjoy the amazing Miami weather.
Drinks can get steep, but you are pretty much paying for the whole ambiance. I only had drinks this time so cannot comment on the food but the DJ was playing good tunes and it was definitely an evening out of the ordinary.

The bottom line:
Miami, FL. South Beach. Pop Up.
$ 50 + per person
Date of visit: February 27^th, 2016
​Not Recommended.
«What in the world is going on?» If we’re going to pretend I was playing jeopardy on February 28^th in South Beach, that would have been my response to «The thought running through The Sushi Legend’s head at 6:15 PM». That’s because, despite my 6:00 PM reservation, I was standing in a stairwell listening to Chef Bun Lai explaining the philosophy behind PREY, the pop up restaurant residing on the roof of the One Hotel. I was joined there by someone who looked like a reporter — either that, or they were recording Chef Bun on an iPhone for a very bizarre purpose. As I listened to the diatribe, my mind raced — why had they brought me here after I checked in? Well — as I had made the reservation through my
email address — maybe they wanted publicity?
But then the door opened to the stairwell and ten more folks were led in by the hostess. To say I was confused is putting it mildly; so I waited. I waited for the chef to finish speaking, for everyone to ask all of their terrible questions and for us to be taken back to the sushi demonstration station. And then something inside me snapped: «I made a reservation for dinner at 6:00 PM — do you think it will be much longer?» I asked. Confusion. And then — «well chef is going to demonstrate maki to the group and then — oh wait, are you not part of the maki demonstration media event??». No. No I was not. I was there for a nice, normal omakase with an incredible view of the ocean. But as she lead me over to the empty sushi bar to begin my meal, I realized that the reason that the host assumed I was there for the media event, was because the very idea that someone would come here for omakase on a Saturday night was less absurd than the alternative. And that was a bad sign for my hope of a nice, normal omakase with an incredible view of the ocean. But I settled in anyways
The concept of PREY is simple in theory, but obscenely difficult in execution: The restaurant only serves invasive species. You thought sustainability was the new buzzword in food? This restaurant turns the dial all the way up until everything on offer is some animal that has destroyed — or is destroying! — some ecosystem. So that being said, a fair warning about PREY — each dish has a unique name and unique ingredients, with the only requirement being that they are an invasive species. Thus, I found myself eating the «Crickleberry Pie», also known as sushi with goat’s cheese, plum and crickets on top. This hybrid of a science project was served as part of what PREY calls the «Future Sushi Omakase».
For those of you who know me personally, or — plug alert — professionally, you’ll note that I love trying new things. So I enjoyed my foray into the world of Jiminy (of Pinocchio fame), as I did for the Cerdo Imperialisita, which is roasted pork (from invasive hogs) wrapped in potato skin with a sunny side egg on top.
But the concept fell flat in other areas. I get that the Lionfish is invasive in Florida, but did it have to be frozen? Even now, typing that last sentence gave me chills all over my body, a likely ramification from eating frozen Lionfish jerky. I was also disappointed that the Omakase was simply every dish on the menu — nothing special beyond that. Not helping mattes was when the accountant in me came out, and I actually determined that if I had ordered every dish a la carte, it would have cost less than the Omakase.
As unsatisfied as I was from the food, I was equally as blown away by the location. I’m not sure if it comes across in the picture above, but the sushi bar at PREY looks out over the Atlantic Ocean from 25 stories up. Quite simply, forget sushi — it’s one of the best locations I’ve ever had a MEAL in — period. There are some drawbacks to this wonderful location though — it shares the space with a rooftop bar, which as you might imagine given the South Beach location — can get quite noisy. Miami also frequently deals with something called «rain», which Webster’s Dictionary defines as «moisture condensed from the atmosphere that falls visibly in separate drops». For some reason, PREY is unaware of this natural phenomenon, and has no mechanism — besides umbrellas — in place to keep customers dry.
A word about the chefs and service staff — they were all incredibly friendly, but there was just something off. Too often my food sat waiting to be served to me, despite the fact that I was sitting at the sushi bar. Too often the break in between courses was long, despite the fact that I was the only customer. The chef and the staff also seemed a bit inexperienced, which became evident the more questions I asked about the food, though they certainly did not lack for passion. My assumption is that some of these are symptomatic of the opening week; everyone seemed to have a strong work-​ethic, so I am confident these issues will be fixed.

Worst experience ever. I don’t usually complain but we were very very disappointed. We got reservations for 11pm through open table. As soon as we got there. The server says kitchens closed! Then why was it open for reservations? We got there at 10.45 and it took an hour to get our drinks. They didn’t even give us proper utensils or Nakins. Because they were out of it! Really! Is it a restaurant or what?
Food was alright but it took a really long time. I wouldn’t recommend going here to anyone.

Delicious sushi. It’s a bit overpriced, but the quality of the fish is amazing. They had a wonderful selection of sake, cocktails, and an aromatic jasmine tea. Try the bonobo boom boom juice ($ 18): a mix of tequila, sake, and lime. I recommend the spicy salmon roll ($ 15) and ikura. I was not a fan of the karma virtue chickenots. They were a bit too deep-​fried and breaded.

Huge Scammers! I have stayed at the 1 hotel every weekend over the past 6 weeks, typically staying in the suite or one of the larger rooms. Last week when I was here, my cell phone disappeared in my room, but I gave them the benefit of the doubt thinking I might have misplaced it. That same afternoon, I checked in, got my keys, walked in and someone had already checked into the same room.
I figured I would give it one more try. This past weekend, I checked in at 2:30 am. Around 5am, a random guests walks into my room… Around 6:30 a drunk person walked into my room with own key as well. I have never experienced anything like this, be very cautious there!

We only stayed one night, but it was a really lovely time. We were upgraded to a king suite with balcony and ocean views, but since we got there so late we didn’t have much time to enjoy the view. Everyone who worked there was friendly and helpful. I spoke with the concierge who sold me a ticket to the hop on hop off bus that stopped very close to the hotel. I’d definitely stay there again!

The best hotel I have stayed in Miami. I was here last time and was not fully done.
The rooms are beautiful and staff are very nice here. The vibe in the lobby is great and the Tom Collechio restaurants are flavourful. Nice big pool.

Best experience in Miami!!! My sisters and I loved this hotel!!! Room are huge, gorgeous, and zen. While the pool and beach is spectacular — I ended up spending most of the time in the room as weather was so-​so and I was happy chilling in the room. I also made good use of the gym and the daily workout classes offered with Cassidy! I took both the 9am burn and 10am circuit — which are challenging and fun! The 45 mins flew by and I can feel my abs after! I also did the Sunday rooftop yoga as well– and highly recommend the high quality workout to all! I can’t wait until the Spartan gym opens. I definitely want to try it out!
My only caveat is event communication — as gym workout are 45 mins long and classes are not offered on the weekend; however– the info on the in-​room phone and posting by elevator is inaccurate. I went to the gym on the weekend looking for the class… and ended up working out in my own. The facilities are first class so not an issue– but it would have been helpful to have the correct info.

Advantages:
Nice hotel
Nice design
Nice service
Nice pool
Nice room
Disadvantages:
Food at the pool not good
Valet cost 42/​day include taxes
You might hear construction

I was here last for 3 days for a work conference. It’s a great place to stay and party. The facilities are awesome and the food delicious.
My only complaint was that I lost my leather jacket, and lost and found were not able to locate it

I’ve stayed in a lot of hotels over the past 25 years traveling extensively globally. This hotel is hands down the best of the best!!! Highly recommended!

We only stayed one short night; 1 Hotel exceeded our expectations. The staff is gracious, genuinely kind and accommodating.
We are celebrating our recent anniversary and were given a beautiful room with a view of the ocean. Imagine our surprise when Jennifer Cadet sent a fabulous sparkling Pinot Gris to our room. How sweet & unexpected.
Green, green to the point of making me want to be more green in my life! we loved the iphone control for pretty much everything. Large spacious rooms and soothing décor.
It was lousy weather yet it didn’t stop us from wrapping ourselves in fluffy towels at the pool deck and getting delicious drinks!
We did have lunch on Sunday at Beachcraft, Tom Colicchio’s restaurant the hotel. We enjoyed the fava bean/​whipped ricotta flatbread pizza — delicious. Lots of labor with those beans! The only disappointment was the pitcher of Bloody Marys. It was lacking in flavor, wasn’t stirred up when received in its plastic carafe and it serves four. Barely. I asked for & received some Worcestshire to give it some flavor; there was only Tabasco for a hot sauce so I passed. I am sure the juice was fresh yet it was really a dull Bloody… and for $ 45…to the GM’s credit, he did stop by and we praised the food and mentioned the Bloody Mary. He truly appreciated our comments. I believe reviewers do Unilocal a disservice if they don’t mention concerns to management. They are all too happy to complain but back off if a manager comes by and they have an opportunity to voice their concerns. Ok… off the soapbox. This is supposed to be about our wonderful stay!
We love love love 1 Hotel South Beach. Look forward to a return visit!

The only thing I’d say about this hotel is that the hotel is amazing!
The hotel opened six months ago before we got here，everything here is just so stylish, clean and high quality! They use Tesla as the shuttle to take customers to everywhere within 3 miles around the hotel! The rooftop and the swimming pool on the 3^rd floor are both fantastic!
Not to mention the rooms! You can’t realize how good it is until you come to explore yourself!

5 STAR x100!!!
The location, the feel, the vibe and most of all the service!!! 1 Hotel in South Beach has it all and much more!
The location is beautiful and convenient. A short walk to restaurants and bars. A quick shuttle ride to even more restaurants and bars. There is also plenty to eat and drink at the hotel itself. But take advantage of the complimentary shuttle the hotel offers.
The rooms are AMAZING! Brand new with earthy tones and natural feel! No detail is missed. I loved the rock towel hangers in the bathroom!
Service is even better than everything else!
— - Helen on the Roof Top pool had an awesome personality! She made sure everything for my girlfriend and I was perfect. Our glasses were always full and it was always «service with a smile!»
— - Eusedio at the main 3^rd floor pool was just as good. He made sure that a beer was never too hard to find! Lunch was brought out quickly and exactly how we ordered it!
— - Alex with the beach service was on point! We asked to move chairs and not only did he run to move us, he made sure to get us fresh chair covers and towels!
All in all, it was an amazing experience! Great service, beautiful & romantic atmosphere that can be enjoyed by couples on the Roof Top or families!!!
A definite place to return again & again!

The hotel itself is absolutely stunning. As soon as you walk in you are transported to an eco naturalist haven. Everything is modern but environmentally conscience. The customer service was nice but my friends and I found that it took wayyyyy too long to get certain things we would asked for (food, drinks etc). The elevators are an interesting concept, there aren’t any buttons in the inside however it is controlled by an outside digital panel. We experienced that it could get confusing at times.
However, the pools are beautiful and relaxing. The cabanas are great, of course, if you want a cabana you need to pay extra but its worth getting for a day just to experience it. It was very nice that the hotel offered free fresh fruit daily, and all the staff seemed very professional and more then willing to help.
Overall, it’s a good hotel, it’s still in its young stage considering it just opened this year. However, I am certain they will fix these minor glitches and become outstanding.

This property is absolutely beautiful! The rooms are lovely and nicely appointed, the pool areas and views are gorgeous and the beach is pristine. The hotel was not overbooked so it was not too crowded, which made my stay very enjoyable.
Overall, the service was impeccable. From the front desk, to the concierge, beach staff, valet and waitstaff… they were all wonderful. The only issue we had was with one server at Beachcraft. We went there for brunch and after this older gentleman brought our coffee, but before he took our food order, he disappeared. For OVER 20 MINUTES. We had to ask another server, a busboy and the bartender to find him. He was even scarce after that. And the restaurant was not crowded. There were quite a few servers and busboys working that morning.
All the restaurant bills at this hotel INCLUDE 18% gratuity. This may be why his level of service did not match the rest of the staff. That is my only complaint. That when someone knows they will be tipped, regardless of their service, they may not provide the best service.
Even thought this server’s behavior was rather disappointing, I’m still giving this hotel a 5-​star review. Everyone else was fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed my stay.

I haven’t stayed at the 1 hotel but I have gone to the rooftop for a few drinks a couple of times. The interior is absolutely beautiful and the pool is amazing.
The music is relaxed and the times I have been there weren’t that many people. I would say it is the ideal place to sit down for a few drinks and talk.

Checked into this hotel last night and booked a king room with a balcony. The balcony looked over a drain system full of cigarettes. I called to request a room change and 45 minutes later received a call stating there was nothing that could be done. During the night I was constantly woken from my sleep from the door of the linen closet that was next door. In the morning I went down to explain the situation and was told they were «150% sold out» which of course us Unilocalers know, is impossible unless they overbooked by 50%. I had to then explain that our same room was available on the website and while I never saw or spoke to the manager, the woman at the front desk came back and said they managed to find us a room… So funny how that happens, not to mention insulting. My boyfriend and I moved, our bags never followed so we had to go and get them ourselves.
The majority of the staff in this hotel are extremely rude and act as if they are doing you a favor by providing less than mediocre service. The attitude is obnoxious and everything takes forever. Drinks, meals, bags, literally everything that should take 5 to 15 minutes takes twice that.
The people at the beach are awesome. Super nice and very helpful. It’s a pretty hotel but there are a million other better options. My advice, stay at the Lowes, Ritz Carlton, W or J. W because this place just isn’t worth the poor treatment.