Putting on the Ritz On A Multitude of Levels

The Ritz-Carlton Key-Biscayne is always coming up with ways to bring something more to its guests and visitors. There have been a number of exciting things happening at the resort in the last couple of months that have made a trip to the island even more luxurious and exciting.

Executive Pastry Chef Laszlo Bollock

For example, Laszlo Bollock, the property's talented Executive Pastry Chef, has brought a decadent level of elegance and flavor to Ritz Carlton Key-Biscayne's signature restaurants and lounges: Cioppino, Dune Oceanfront Burger Lounge, RUMBAR and Cantina Beach. His vast experience in pastry making goes back to his childhood years, where his grandmother taught the young aspiring chef how to perfect traditional Hungarian foods such as goulash, paprikash and dobosh. From there his interest and passion grew to artistic heights, when he enrolled in the Karoly Gundel Culinary School in Budapest and continued to hone his craft by working at pastry shops, such as Chocolia, and opening his own sweet spot in his Budapest hometown.

Executive Pastry Chef Laszlo Bollock (Right)

Inspired by a need for change, Bollock moved to the vibrant city of New York as the Executive Pastry chef for the world renowned opera singer, Placido Domingo's Spanish Restaurant, Domingo's. His career continued to flourish as the pastry chef for Louis XVI in Long Island, Jean-Georges at The Mark Hotel, the Pierre Hotel, and most recently, Le Cirque.

Pistachio Sponge Cake
Bavarian,Pistachios come from Sicily
Thin layer of white chocolate
Pistachio Ganache
There is a play on textures with
a surprise in the middle
Finished with another layer of
white chocolate
Ice-cream is made with cardamom spice
Light, subtle and amazing

Almond Sponge Cake
Rich with a buttery flavor
Topped with chopped green apple
Made with a bit of brown sugar
Served warm with a side of
green apple sorbet

Raspberry Lychee Crostata
with a layer of butter cookie at the bottom
Lychee puree holds nine fresh raspberries
Smooth flavor, with a top layer of gelee
Finished with raspberry lychee sorbet

Strawberry Souffle
Topped with Limoncello
Served with fresh strawberries
And Fresh, Aromatic Basil ice cream

I had the opportunity to indulge in Bollock's incredible culinary art during a recent tasting at the Ritz Carlton in Key Biscayne, and there is something quite spectacular about the way Bollock puts together ingredients to create a memorable sweet finale for the palate. His deep-rooted enthusiasm in preparing desserts and pastries can be tasted in every bite and every spoonful. But it isn't enough to merely glance through the pictures to truly comprehend what I mean, you have to taste it for yourself.


New Marketplace Cafe And Renovated RUMBAR

Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne guests will now treated to a new arrival experience featuring two remastered spaces and the unveiling of a new marketplace cafe: Key Pantry: Eat.Drink.Shop. I've been staying at the Ritz for years, and I totally love what they did with the space. It added a rustic feel to the place, inviting guests to stop by for a freshly brewed cup of Panther coffee, or a bit of ice cream, pastries, cakes or sandwiches. Everything is house-made and holds true to the Ritz's outstanding quality. Not hungry? That's ok.. you can pick up a few unique gifts for your friends and family, or maybe some exclusive items to the venue.

The marketplace isn't the only thing guests will find that's different when they walk in. The lobby has had a makeover as well, showcasing majestic views of the Atlantic Ocean through large, floor-to-ceiling windows. While it was beautiful before, it now takes new life, with hues of blues and greens that carry throughout the furniture and are reminiscent of the natural tropical island oasis surroundings.

Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne Lobby

And off to the right, their signature RUMBAR is bringing a new look into the past. A staple and one of the only venues in Miami to enjoy live Latin music, RUMBAR transports guests into the 1940s old, Havana style bar lounge with a new transformation. Palmetto, high ceiling fans, rich, dark woods and sultry ambiance recalls the past, yet offers a contemporary modern look with additional bar and lounge seating. I can remember spending many evenings sitting right there, sipping their signature mojitos and enjoying incredible small bites and shareable plates that include Tostones Rellenos, Tuna Tartar, Ropa Vieja Sliders and Minuta de Pargo.

Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne's Signature RUMBAR

Southern Jazz Brunch

Going to the Sunday Brunch at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne has always been an extraordinary experience, with its lavish display of culinary stations, caviar and seafood, bottomless Prosecco cocktails and an entire room dedicated to the perfect ending of sweet treats (you'll pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming). However, starting this past March, the Ritz has debuted their Southern Jazz Brunch, embarking guests on a culinary trip to the intense flavors and flair of New Orleans. Taking inspiration from the streets near Jackson Square, guests will enjoy magicians, mystic tarot card readers, art and a five-piece roaming jazz band.

I took my virtual trip on March 15th and it was intense. Not only did my taste buds awaken to dishes such as Pork Candy Ribs, a New Orleans Style Shrimp Boil, Jambalaya Pasta and Fried Green Tomatoes, but I also got my fortune told by a tarot card reader who gave me really good romantic news. (We're keeping our fingers crossed). With our pool side view, and the breeze gently blowing on our faces, we enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon. Just take a look...

Priced at $85 per adult and $41 per child, plus tax and gratuities, the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne's Southern Jazz Brunch is a must-do. It will be offered April 19th, May 17th and June 21st, so hurry and make your reservations. Valet Parking is complimentary. For more information on the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne and all of its splendor, visit their website at http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/KeyBiscayne.