New hotel in Miami draws criticism from fashion icon

A brand new boutique hotel recently opened its doors in Miami Beach. Name? Donatella. Style? Unmistakably inspired by Versace. But that reference turns out to be more sensitive than expected…

A new hotspot has recently opened in a 20s bungalow building deep in the heart of Miami Beach’s Art Deco district: Donatella Boutique Hotel & Restaurant. With just six rooms, a private butler for each guest and a restaurant where the southern Italian sun resonates in every bite, this ‘modern ode to the Mediterranean’ is aimed at guests with taste.

The interior? Natural stone, warm wood, mirrors on the ceiling and gold accents. Each room bears an Italian name and is decorated with art that refers to the culture of Miami and the Mediterranean. The menu includes dishes such as Black Truffle Cacio e Pepe, Rigatoni Nduja and Skull Island Prawns, served under the supervision of chef Alessandro Morrone.

Criticism

However, the choice of the hotel's name is a sensitive one. Because despite its luxurious appearance and the apparent link to the nearby former Versace Mansion, the project has no formal connection to the Versace family. Donatella Versace herself recently made herself heard. In an Instagram statement, she wrote: "The hotel and restaurant with my name, near the house where my brother was murdered, has nothing to do with me or my family. Trying to profit from our tragedy is shameful."

It is not yet clear whether Donatella's statement will lead to legal action.