Overview
Peninsula is a storied brand that has its beginnings in interwar Hong Kong.
The brand has 11 incredible properties in significant cities and will add London later this year.
The New York hotel opened in 1988 and was the brand’s first American property.
UCT’s stay at the Peninsula New York was spectacular and memorable.
The hotel does everything well and is a great base to explore traditional New York.
Hotel
The original building that now houses the hotel was built in 1905 in the neo-classical style, originally the Gotham Hotel.
The facade was made of limestone and granite to complement the neighbourhood.
The hotel feels special as soon as the car pulls up and that feeling never leaves you during your stay.
The lobby is ornate and grand with whimsical touches that are just delightful.
The reception was never busy or rushed and the service here feels old world and welcoming.
Location
The hotel sits at the corner of 5th Avenue and 55th Street, a location right in the heart of the city in Midtown.
A couple of blocks from Central Park, world-leading luxury shopping is right outside your door.
Whilst there is now trendier addresses downtown, this location is perfect for those new to the city who want to explore or shop.
The beauty of this address is you can see New York in the best possible way, by walking.
Both Uptown and Downtown addresses can be reached if you have the time and the inclination to walk the blocks required.
Room
UCT stayed in an Executive Suite which is the perfect base for a short or long stay in New York.
The Executive Suite was the perfect hotel room.
There were four distinct areas – bedroom, bathroom, sitting room and dressing room.
Two people could be incredibly comfortable here.
The decor is traditional with muted tones and it always feels cosy.
The space works well with well-defined rooms that serve their purpose well.
The dressing room has plenty of space for luggage.
Food and Drink
The hotel’s flagship restaurant serves modern American cuisine.
Clement serves both breakfast and lunch which is of the expected quality.
Salon de Ning is the rooftop bar and is a fantastic place for a late-night tipple.
With a drink in hand, you can look down the bustle on 5th Avenue.
Amenities
The fitness centre at the hotel is located on the 22nd floor and contains everything you would expect at a top-class hotel.
The pool is in a glass-enclosed room and during the summer, a sundeck is available.
The hotel has an extensive spa that spans over three floors and contains 12 treatment rooms.
Final Word
In a city filled with extraordinary hotels, it is hard to beat the Peninsula for a taste of traditional New York City.
The Executive Suite would be significantly better than most New York apartments.
UCT has stayed at many of the world’s great hotels and this hotel is amongst the best.
Coupled with the fact that this hotel often sits at a lower price point than other notable NYC luxury hotels, it is a must-stay whilst in the big apple.
UCT provides a guide to the Peninsula brand here.
You can book their New York property by clicking below.
