When we used to think of Hollywood, Florida, the first thing that came to mind was Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Our idea of the city was centered around one giant casino property; in our heads, nothing else existed besides residences and a few local watering holes and restaurants. Why bother going up?
Boy, were we wrong. There’s a whole lot more to the city than we originally thought. If you’re willing to make the trek, it’s easy to spend a weekend or more with a full schedule of dining experiences and fun attractions. And right in the middle of it all is CIRC Hotel, the first hotel to open in Downtown Hollywood in decades.
CIRC Hotel is hard to miss. It’s right off Young Circle, one of the main landmarks in the downtown area, and there’s a giant Publix attached to it. Upon walking inside, you’ll likely be taken aback by how modern everything looks. You can tell this place is new, and that awestruck expression on your face will continue as you check out your suite.
The RoomsÂ
If you looked up the word “relaxed” in the dictionary, you’d likely find a photo of us passed out in bed here. The beds are COMFORTABLE, and that’s an understatement. If we didn’t already have dinner reservations, we’d just spend all day wrapped up in 300-thread-count linens.
Our corner suite with a king bed also provided a great view of the airport and the skyline; don’t worry about plane noise or other interruptions — there aren’t any. Plus, there’s a 50-inch TV and free high-speed WIFI if you do have to stay connected.
The Food
Hotel restaurants, in our experience, are hit or miss. Operators tend to focus too much on one aspect of a guest’s stay — like amenities — and forget about others. Not here: Food gets just as much attention, which is why Olivia at CIRC is consistently slammed. The property’s on-site Italian restaurant serves up hefty classics like salmon carpaccio and tortellini Alfredo that are priced extremely well for the area.
The highlight, though, is the mozzarella bar. Whether you’re visiting for drinks with the guys/girls or enjoying a night out with your other half, you have to get some cheese. We opted for the selection with smoked salmon and realized upon first bite that we had made the right choice.
Olivia is just one of the on-site establishments at CIRC. Upstairs on the rooftop is The Muse, a bar with its own selection of bites and cocktails. On a beautiful day, make it a point to visit — the view goes on for miles. Early risers can also swing by Presto for coffee, croissants and other morning fare. At CIRC, there’s something for any time of day.
Stellar food, quality amenities, convenient location … these three things make CIRC a must for any overnight or extended stay in Hollywood. If you’re anything like us, you won’t want to leave once you arrive.