A recent slate of clandestine meetings at Hyatt Centric Las Olas is generating plenty of buzz in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Patrons have been seen relaying a password to the front desk in exchange for a key to a room at the end of the hallway on the ninth floor. Rumor has it that, to gain entrance, guests must knock twice on an unmarked door that catches the glow of a nearby red light.
From there, what happens inside 901, the Hyatt’s hotel room-turned-speakeasy, stays inside 901. That’s just part of the allure of this private experience for no more than six people (bookable by reservation only). Once inside, bask in detail-rich Prohibition-era décor and enjoy a curated menu of bites from executive chef Greg McGowan—think mini Connecticut-style lobster rolls; roasted bone marrow with pickled veggies, peach and mango; and house-fried potato chips served with truffle crème fraiche.
Naturally, the cocktails reflect the throwback vibe, with drink names such as “The Butler Did It.” But that’s not the best part of the spirits program. The speakeasy is inviting mixologists from establishments closed due to the pandemic to host pop-up activations at 901. The bartender-in-residence program continues this spring with visits from two more Roaring ’20s-style concepts—Midnight Cowboy in Austin, Texas (April 12-18); and Red Phone Booth, which has locations in Nashville and Atlanta (May 9-17).
For interested in booking 901, here’s the lowdown. There’s a food and beverage minimum of $50 per person; a one-hour minimum for one to two patrons; and a two-hour minimum for three to six patrons. Email or visit roomnine01.com for additional details.
