Mandarin Oriental, New York - Hotel Review

High in the Sky in Manhattan

By Alain Gayot

Street view of the Mandarin Oriental, New York

Those who think the term “instant classic” is a contradiction need only step into the lobby of the Mandarin Oriental, New York. Despite residing in the behemoth that is the Time Warner Center, it seems like an institution, with its timeless style and tasteful tributes to the ancient Orient.

Ensconced on the lofty 35th through 54th floors of the center’s north tower, this property offers an experience that begins at ground level, in a lobby anchored by a striking, contemporary Dale Chihuly Waterford crystal sculpture. With your appetite whetted for things to come, you then take the elevator up to a dedicated lobby for more Chihuly (a “bouquet” growing dramatically out of a moss garden), tooled silver inserts shimmering in the granite reception desk and sweeping views of Central Park and Broadway.

Isolated in the glass-walled complex, the Mandarin Oriental, New York feels somewhat stark at times, but this does not detract from its striking atmosphere. Using a blend of retro 1940s style and Asian touches, the bedrooms reflect the Far East heritage of the Mandarin Oriental group, while at the same time evoking the city’s chic urban apartments. Color schemes of gold and black or Chinese red and sterling silver add to the cool ambience; but there’s no denying the allure of the view over the park, Hudson River and Manhattan skyline.

The hotel likes to boast that each room contains $27,000 worth of technology — your flat-panel LCD TV can be used to read text and fax messages, listen to voicemail, watch a DVD, play a CD from the in-room selection or use your laptop. Tubs have their own flat-screen TVs, and safes include rechargeable access for your laptop. On a less high-tech note, a bedside reading program provides newly released books as a complimentary amenity, and the recently renovated, 2,230-square-foot Presidential Suite features custom designed furnishings surrounded by Asian artifacts and artwork including antique textiles, paintings and a 250-year-old parchment calligraphy book with Chinese characters conveying a story of happiness and good fortune.

Superbly appointed rooms	75 feet for laps with a view

These days it seems a top-of-the-line hotel can’t have a trendy dining venue and bar unless they’re designed by Tony Chi. In Asiate, Chi’s hand is most evident in the suspended, modern tree branch sculpture offering an ode to Central Park; diners wanting a more realistic version need only look out the windows. Asiate serves contemporary cuisine with an Asian flair from Chef de Cuisine Brandon Kida, inspired by his Japanese-American heritage. Reminiscent of 1930s residential design, MObar is also a Chi creation, highlighted by an island bar of polished, hammered nickel.

We love Mandarin Oriental spas, and the 14,500-square-foot facility in New York upholds our esteem. Thoughtful décor incorporates bamboo flooring, natural stone, water features, Chinese furnishings and window treatments of Japanese rice paper.

Along with traditional treatment rooms, it also has an amethyst crystal steam room, mineral water vitality pool, his and hers relaxation lounges, a tea lounge and a VIP spa suite with its own changing room, steam sauna and fireplace. Treatments, based on Chinese, European, Balinese and Thai traditions, are broken down into categories such as Massage, Rituals and Journeys, which begin with a foot bath and consultation with the therapist to determine your needs. Rounding out the experience is a stunning 75-foot lap pool overlooking the Hudson River.

Whether you’re in town to drag your parents through FAO Schwartz’ flagship store or conduct an executive board meeting, Mandarin Oriental, New York offers plenty to meet your needs. But it is globetrotting pleasure seekers who most feel at home here, soaring above the treetops in style.

(Updated 01/12/11 CT)