If you haven’t been to the Diplomat Beach Resort lately, you haven’t been to the Diplomat Beach Resort. What had drifted off my radar, has now reemerged and is booming with 10 culinary concepts, 1,000 renovated rooms and suites – and a $100 million renovation. Can you say staycation?
I was invited to dine at Diplomat Beach Resort and received a complimentary meal. All opinions expressed here are my own.
While we didn’t get to enjoy the overnight stay, we did get to test out the restaurants — and well, isn’t that all that matters? From a sophisticated steakhouse to a seafood-centric coastal restaurant to a new Asian concept, the Diplomat Beach Resort offers something for everyone — so many surprises will await you. On our visit, we were surprised, as we were told to show up for cocktails and our final destination would be revealed that night. Oh, the suspense.
Portico Beer & Wine Garden
Our first stop was at Portico Beer & Wine Garden where we picked up our golden ticket (Point Royal was going to be our final destination). This laid-back, waterfront bar, located at The Diplomat Landing, had a perfectly relaxed vibe, where anything goes, with ping pong tables and Adironack chairs set up around the plaza. Don’t let the name fool you, as Portico Beer & Wine Bar offers a full bar and a limited Italian menu of appetizers and pizza — don’t miss the roasted mushroom pizza with the black truffle white, one of our favorites from the menu.
Point Royal
Point Royal, perfect for the seafood lover in all of us, is brought to you by chef, restaurateur, cookbook author and television personality, Geoffrey Zakarian. Located on the first level of the Diplomat Beach Resort, diners will revel at the restaurant’s modern design, seaside feel and the splurge-worthy seafood tower that is served with Oysters, Clams and Cold Poached Prawns — and if you go up a level or two, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Yellowfin Tuna Tartare and Whole Poached Lobster.
Other highlights on the menu include a Hamachi Crudo with cranberry relish and crispy shallots that popped with a medley of sweet and salty flavors; Warm Baby Artichokes served with a trifecta of toasted hazelnuts, goat cheese and black garlic romesco; and Grilled Octopus that had a crisp char, but was tender inside and married well with a tangy, garlic yogurt sauce. Pair your food favorites with a glass of glass or a seasonal cocktail and you’ve found a match made in heaven.
Monkitail
For an Asian food fix, make reservations at Monkitail at Diplomat Beach Resort, that is if you like to share. Celebrity chef Michael Schulson of Schulson Collective has opened up Monkitail, a modern take on the classic izakaya — and it features a selection of small plates and sushi – meant for sharing, specialty cocktails and sake. Monkitail is perfect if you’re look for an up-close dining experience, as the restaurant boasts an open robatayaki kitchen and a 15-seat sushi bar. If you’re looking to keep things a bit more intimate, there’s also a private dining area available.
Diplomat Prime
If you’re feeling those carnivorous cravings come on, the Diplomat should be your go-to destination. Not only does this boutique steakhouse boast a menu of prime beef aged in-house, including a 28 oz. Porterhouse, Diplomat Prime also offers a variety of succulent seafood dishes, highlighting fresh and seasonal ingredients, and savory sides. Think — Duck Fat Steak Fries, Lobster Mac ‘n Cheese and Roasted Cauliflower with pork belly and pickled onions.
Additional dining options at Diplomat Beach Resort:
- Bristol’s Burgers – burgers, salads and shakes
- Candy & Cones – housemade ice cream and candies
- Counter Point – a grab-and-go version of Point Royal with sandwiches, pastries, coffee and juices
- Playa – Nuevo-Latina restaurant with tacos, salsa, guacamole and an extensive line-up of rum and tequila
- The Canteen – convenience food items for when you’re on the go
- The Hotel bar – for when you need a cocktail
The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood Curio Collection By Hilton is located at 3555 S Ocean Drive in Hollywood. For more information, visit the resort online or call (954) 602-8311.