The person responsible for overseeing food and beverage operations across Hilton’s entire Americas portfolio started his career in the humblest of settings: a high school job at a local Pizza Hut.
That’s the story of Brian Abel, Hilton’s newly named senior vice president of Food & Beverage Operations. Over the past two decades, he has built a diverse resume working for independent restaurants, boutique hotels in New York City and corporate powerhouses like Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Royal Caribbean Group.
Tapping into Abel’s deep understanding of the industry and his trend-setting culinary insights, we turned to the hospitality executive for his recommendations on where to eat and what to see in his home of South Florida.
What are South Florida’s must-visit attractions?
Beaches, golf and more beaches and more golf.
What are the best under-the-radar activities in South Florida?
Although known for great beaches and outdoor activities, like biking, running and golf, there are some finds in South Florida that not too many visitors know about. One of my favorites is Everglades National Park, where you can discover the local ecosystems and wildlife, including alligators, snakes and more.
I also recommend visiting the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, an opulent estate with interesting history right on Biscayne Bay showcasing stunning architecture and gardens. Or you can explore the growing and buzzing Miami Design District with cool art galleries, upscale shops, local designs and amazing small restaurants, bars and cafés.
What’s one dish everyone should try in South Florida?
Key lime pie, of course!
What are can’t-miss restaurants in South Florida?
Old school is Le Tub for the best burger in South Florida, right on the Intercoastal in Hollywood.
My favorite new restaurant is Daniel’s, A Florida Steakhouse in Fort Lauderdale. I also recommend Sunny’s steakhouse in the up-and-coming Little River neighborhood. A hidden place for Neapolitan pizza in the Mimmo district of Miami is ‘O Munaciello.
What’s the best way to experience South Florida’s culture?
A fun experience is to take the water taxi on the Intercoastal of Fort Lauderdale, which makes stops up and down the waterway for local restaurants, shops and bars. Also, I love to walk around the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami, which has great art galleries, restaurants and retail, both local and name brands.
What are South Florida’s best beaches?
The Florida Keys have the best beaches and specifically Islamorada, which is only half the distance to Key West from Miami.
Of course, you can’t go wrong with South Beach with great sand, beach sports and people-watching.
Who do you most admire in the hospitality industry?
Danny Meyer. Originally from New York, I have followed Danny’s career since the beginning, when he opened up the original Union Square Café and then Gramercy Tavern to now have a mega restaurant company, including Shake Shack. I admire his ability to really simplify a very complex industry/business to allow his team to focus on what is the most important, which is delivering a great and consistent experience to guests.
What’s the worst hospitality trend you’ve seen?
It would be the focus on caviar served everywhere and with everything. It has been overused and overpriced, which is unfortunate for such a luxurious and special item and what used to be a really special experience, presentation and delicacy.
What does hospitality mean to you?
Providing a consistent experience that is very personalized and consists of a million little details done extremely well. Guests should leave feeling better than when they arrived, whether it’s a restaurant, hotel or cruise ship.
What destination can you return to again and again?
Italy.
What’s your favorite cocktail?
What I — and a few authentic Mexican restaurants — refer to as the 50/50: 50% tequila and 50% mezcal.
What’s the best business advice you ever received?
Be patient. Be patient with guests, be patient with business partners, be patient with your team members and be patient with being successful.
What’s your on-the-road wellness routine?
Peloton, when it is available in hotels, as well as taking a run through any cool and new city, town or resort destination early in the morning when the sun is rising — it’s a great way to start the day and see a city come to life.
