Waldorf Astoria New York officially begins its highly anticipated opening season, unveiling the first chapter of a historic transformation that redefines modern luxury while preserving the property’s storied Art Deco heritage. Following an extensive restoration, guests can now book stays in reimagined guest rooms and suites and make reservations at the hotel’s three distinctive dining experiences: Lex Yard, led by acclaimed Chef Michael Anthony, the legendary Peacock Alley, and the intimate Japanese dining concept Yoshoku.
Described by Conrad Hilton as “The Greatest of Them All,” the landmark hotel has recaptured the splendor of its 1931 origins with painstaking attention to detail from hundreds of artists and craftspeople. “In many ways, Waldorf Astoria New York is the most important hotel in the world,” said Chris Nassetta, president and CEO of Hilton. “It is the original luxury property and the place where luxury service was perfected. Today, we build on this legacy as we mark the start of a new chapter for this iconic property.”
A Masterful Transformation
The renovation was led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) with interiors by Pierre-Yves Rochon (PYR) and residences by Jean-Louis Deniot. SOM’s approach balanced preservation and innovation, restoring 62,000 square feet of landmark interiors while integrating modern amenities for today’s discerning travelers. The design honors original materials, including Portoro marble and decorative mosaics, while incorporating contemporary features like automated curtains, integrated lighting, and custom-designed furniture.
The restoration also celebrated the hotel’s rich artistic history. Murals dating back to the 19th century were meticulously preserved by ArtCare Conservation, while PYR’s elegant design introduced tonal consistency and spatial flow, seamlessly blending the past with the present.
Culinary Highlights
Guests can now reserve tables at three distinct culinary destinations:
- Peacock Alley, the legendary hotel lounge, returns with elevated cocktails by mixology expert Jeff Bell and live performances at the Cole Porter piano. The iconic Waldorf Astoria Clock, restored to its original glory, anchors the space as a timeless meeting point.
- Lex Yard, an American brasserie by Chef Michael Anthony, celebrates seasonal ingredients and refined technique, offering standout dishes such as Royal Ocsiètre Gold Caviar Sando and Slow-Poached Halibut with Borscht Sauce.
- Yoshoku, an intimate Japanese dining experience, presents a kaiseki-inspired tasting menu alongside a curated selection of sake, Champagne, and signature cocktails.
Elevated Guest Experience
Now offering 375 guest rooms and 372 residences, the hotel features some of Manhattan’s largest accommodations, with most exceeding 570 square feet. Designed to feel like private apartments, rooms feature custom furnishings, artisanal finishes, and spa-like marble bathrooms with walk-in showers and dressing areas. Guests will also encounter NO Uniform couture-designed staff wardrobes, a discreet porte-cochère entrance—Manhattan’s only—and the hotel’s signature fragrance, 301 Park Avenue, created with Fueguia 1833.
With its reimagined guest rooms, world-class dining, and a renewed commitment to timeless elegance, Waldorf Astoria New York sets a new global benchmark for modern luxury while celebrating its legendary past.
For more information or reservations, visit waldorfastorianewyork.com or follow @waldorfnyc.