October is usually a month of exploration for my wife and me—a time to carve out a break from the daily grind and soak up a few days of rest and relaxation. Recently, after an adults-only getaway in Key Largo, we opted for a staycation and decided to bring along Riggs, our Great Dane, who’s not only our loyal companion but practically a member of the family. That’s how we ended up at The Ben Autograph Collection in West Palm Beach, a place highly recommended as pet-friendly with a luxury twist.
The lobby felt like entering a literary treasure trove, with décor that evoked a 19th-century travel narrative. Modern furniture was artfully juxtaposed against antique curiosities, anchored by a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf filled with well-worn books. While browsing the collection, I discovered fascinating volumes on European history. The hotel’s name, “Ben Trovato”—Italian for “well found”—seemed perfectly embodied in this atmospheric space.
Our seventh-floor room offered a stunning view of the Intracoastal Waterway, where yachts bobbed gently in the West Palm Beach marina below—perhaps a glimpse of my future boat, if I’m dreaming big! The King Water View room delivered everything we’d expect from a luxury retreat: reliable Wi-Fi, ergonomic workspaces, a Nespresso machine, and premium bathroom amenities that made settling in effortless.
Right from check-in, it was clear that Riggs, our Great Dane, was not only welcome but pampered. The Ben recently partnered with Chewy to launch the exclusive “Stay With Chewy” package, available through the end of 2024, and our experience with it was nothing short of extraordinary. The room had a thoughtfully designed suite of pet essentials perfect for a coastal getaway. From a stylish backpack filled with portable bowls and a plush travel bed to a tropical bandana and map-inspired toys from Chewy’s Frisco collection, Riggs was spoiled at every turn. The Ben’s team even provided tennis balls, a cozy dog-sized robe, and peanut butter treats—the ultimate welcome for our gentle giant. The package also included Chewy’s Connect with a Vet service, a virtual veterinary chat for quick health questions, offering peace of mind for pet parents on the go.
When classic Florida rain arrived that evening, we opted for room service from The Proper Grit, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant. The petit lobster rolls with preserved lemon and the decadent lobster & rock shrimp carbonara (featuring egg yolk butter and pecorino cheese) proved worthy of a special date night. Riggs enjoyed his own treat—an unseasoned chicken breast from the doggy menu—while we watched city lights twinkle from our terrace before drifting off to sleep.
Breakfast at Proper Grit the next morning showcased modern interpretations of classic Floridian flavors. The standout black truffle omelet croissant—now my weekend favorite—accompanied perfectly executed avocado toast and açaí bowls. I love this restaurant’s décor, which pays tribute to two of the area’s pioneers, Byrd and Fred Dewey, whose stories add historical depth to the dining experience.
Our day continued with shopping at Royal Poinciana Plaza, a Palm Beach architectural gem designed to evoke European elegance. This luxury destination offers everything from fresh-pressed juices at Celis to authentic Italian pastries at Sant Ambroeus. The carefully curated boutiques provided a quintessentially Palm Beach blend of indulgence and discovery.
Back at The Ben, we spent the afternoon at Spruzzo, the rooftop lounge whose Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere transported us worlds away. While savoring jumbo lump crab bites and roasted carrot hummus, I enjoyed my new favorite cocktail: the Il Lido Spritz, a refreshing blend of Absolut, blackberries, lemon, and basil that paired perfectly with the waterfront views.
Our final dinner at The Proper Grit featured a memorable pecan-crusted goat cheese salad with champagne vinaigrette and an expertly prepared Scottish Salmon Wellington. Each dish reinforced the hotel’s commitment to culinary excellence, leaving us satisfied and impressed. We couldn’t end the night without indulging in their delicious desserts. As the meal portions were quite generous, we decided to share a mouthwatering Key Lime Brûlée. This delightful crème brûlée key lime bar was served with blueberry citrus jam and a rich citrus whipped cream, providing the perfect finale before we headed off to the lobby, where we took a moment to appreciate the hotel’s decor one last time.
The Ben Autograph Collection stands out as a rare find for those seeking a luxurious, pet-friendly stay in West Palm Beach. While the premium pricing reflects its upscale nature, the thoughtfully curated experience, exceptional service, and genuine hospitality make it a worthwhile splurge. The Chewy Package gave our pet as exceptional an experience as ours. Even after the “Stay With Chewy” package ends this year, The Ben remains an ideal destination for travelers with pets year-round. The welcoming, thoughtful touches that made Riggs feel right at home reflect The Ben’s true spirit—a place where all guests and their dogs are treated like family.
The Ben, Autograph Collection is at 251 N Narcissus Ave, downtown West Palm Beach. Online at www.thebenwestpalm.com and @thebenwestpalm.
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