This one-time casino-turned-hotel still houses original elements including hexagonal floor tile in the bathrooms, some ornate furniture, and embellished ceiling medallions. But many design elements were barely maintained and now feel old and dated rather than historical and charming. The entire property feels passed its prime -- in some cases, it’s hanging on by a thread. There’s little social space for guests to gather and relax. One exception is the Trevini Restaurant, serving gourmet Italian fare in a surprisingly intimate, romantic room with a lively, modern bar and alfresco dining. Guests tend to be vacationing couples seeking the famous glamour of Palm Beach without the sky-high hotel prices to match.

The central location along pristine, palm-lined Sunset Avenue is lively and moderately trafficked but very walkable. It’s convenient to dozens of high-end shops, restaurants, services, and a large Publix supermarket across the street. Most are within a 10-minute walk. Guests can reach City Place -- an upscale lifestyle center with additional restaurants, shopping, and services in less than 10 minutes by car. Some of the most beautiful beaches on the Gold Coast are reachable in a 10-minute drive. The famous Henry Morrison Flagler Museum is less than half a mile away and easy to reach on foot. Palm Beach International (PBI) Airport is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. 

Room decor is traditional and homey. Original elements in some rooms like hardwood flooring, decorative ceiling medallions, and paneled doors offer subtle nods to the hotel’s historical past. But, the bland furnishings, dated curtains, and lack of wall decor create a look that’s ultimately forgettable. Entry-level Deluxe Rooms offer 322-square-foot (30-square-meter) floor plans with a studio-style layout. Junior Suites provide a bit more space, while One-Bedroom Suites are nearly twice the size at 600 square feet (56 square meters). Standard amenities in every room include flat-screen TVs, pillowtop beds, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi (though the signal is unreliable in some rooms). Suites upgrade to full kitchens. Bathrooms are small, but feature charming 1920s-inspired elements like subway tile, pedestal sinks, and black-and-white hexagonal tile flooring. Combination shower/tubs and generic bath amenities are standard in every category. Many rooms overlook the parking lot.

Relative to most area hotels, the list of amenities here is thin. Trevini restaurant is surprisingly modern, intimate, and upscale. White linen tablecloths, a well-stocked wine cellar, and a swanky bar all provide a lovely backdrop for a romantic lunch or dinner. Beyond the main dining room, the outdoor patio is open for alfresco dining during good weather. The menu is heavy on gourmet Italian fare and locally sourced seafood. On the first floor, the charming C’est Si Bon market is a traditional deli with prepared foods, snacks, and beverages (including alcohol) for guests to stock their in-room kitchens.

The closet-sized fitness room contains just three tired machines. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, although we found the service unreliable. Self-parking is provided in an off-street lot. However, spaces are extremely limited, so it’s best for guests traveling with cars to confirm availability in advance.