After an extensive, years-long restoration, Waldorf Astoria New York has reopened its doors, marking a moment of rebirth for Hilton’s legendary luxury brand.
Closed since 2017, the Park Avenue landmark has undergone an unprecedented transformation, led by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. The project preserves beloved spaces such as the Grand Ballroom and Peacock Alley while unveiling 375 of “Manhattan’s most spacious guest rooms and suites.”
The revitalised Park Avenue Lobby now houses Yoshoku, a new kaiseki-inspired restaurant, and the celebrated Peacock Alley returns alongside Lex Yard, a signature American brasserie featuring a cocktail program by award-winning mixologist Jeff Bell. Above it all, are 372 private residences designed by Jean-Louis Deniot.
“In many ways, Waldorf Astoria New York is the most important hotel in the world,” remarked Chris Nassetta, President and CEO, Hilton.
“It is the original luxury property and the place where luxury service was perfected. It not only holds a special place in Hilton’s history, but also in modern history.”
“Today, we build on this legacy as we mark the start of a new chapter for this iconic property. We look forward to once again welcoming guests to experience its timeless charm and modern enhancements, as this hotel and Waldorf Astoria properties around the world set the standard for luxury stays.”
“Waldorf Astoria New York is a beacon of timeless elegance – ‘The Greatest of Them All,’ as Conrad Hilton once described,” said Dino Michael, Senior Vice President and Global Head, Hilton Luxury Brands.
“We take that north star – ‘The Greatest of Them All’ – and we like to manifest that ambition at every new hotel we open across the globe.”
Along with the rooms and suites, reservations are also available for the hotel’s three distinctive food and beverage experiences — Chef Michael Anthony’s signature brasserie Lex Yard, the legendary Peacock Alley, and the Japanese dining concept Yoshoku.
From 1 September, the hotel’s Grand Ballroom and Basildon, Jade and Astor Rooms will be available for meetings, events and conferences.
Guests can now arrive at the hotel via three entrances including a discreet porte-cochère on 49th Street between Lexington Avenue and Park Avenue – the only hotel porte-cochère available in Manhattan – or via Park Avenue or Lexington Avenue between 49th and 50th streets.
Since the New York flagship’s closure, the brand has seen extraordinary global growth, adding 17 new properties with 33 more in the pipeline. The portfolio now spans 36 properties across 18 countries.This evolution is reflected in the brand’s philosophy that “design is not just aesthetic, it’s storytelling,” according to Michael. Across the portfolio, signature elements like the Waldorf Astoria Clock are reinterpreted to reflect local culture – from the Mayan calendar in Riviera Maya to organic Costa Rican textures in Punta Cacique.
Culinary innovation also defines this new era, with Michelin-starred restaurants and chef-driven concepts around the world. From La Pergola in Rome to Nobu at Grand Wailea, Waldorf Astoria partners with “visionary chefs” to bring local authenticity to the table.
