Wonderful stay at the Four Seasons Hotel New York so far the finest Hotel I have ever stayed in. My experience has been amazing if I value the physical features of the Hotel (including interior and exterior design/architecture) as well as the quality of service I received by all the staff, commencing from the doorman at your arrival.

The Hotel is a 52-story building at a premier location 57 East 57 Street, between Park and Madison Avenue. For some reasons – such as the masonry building and the punched windows – it reflects the perfect tradition of New York and fits in it gorgeously, whereas in a different way itself stands alone: it is not a flat building but a light limestone cascade which creates an inviting scale for the main entrance. At each corner is set a lantern which at night create an invitation from the outside. The light honey colour of the limestone tower gives you a sense of well being and when you are inside it is all a surprise.

Lobby
Impressive, high ceiling with columns, onyx and limestone composes the foyer which is open onto the terraced lobby lounges on both sides. On one side there is 57 Restaurant and on the other side you have the TY Bar.

Front Office/Concierge
The reception is located past to the Concierge’ desk, which is in front of the main entrance. Staff is excellent – kind prompt friendly – they always come with a smile. Check-in is was quick and although the Hotel was fully committed we did not have to wait for our room to be ready. With the Concierge we only arranged a couple of sightseeing plus booked 2 dinner and experienced their insightful knowledge.

Room
Larger than average Deluxe Room, even for NY standards with plenty of space for a comfortable sitting area with a divan, armchair – seating for 3 people with a large coffee table. The FS beds are marvellous all over the world, I would love to buy one for my home.

There is a large oval table which serves either as a working desk either as a dining table. At the desk you do have the cable for the Internet connection, a printer/fax/scanner at your disposal and all the electrical devices for your laptop. The table faces the huge glass window, which itself overlooked the bustling 57th Street. Even if you are not staying at top floor – we were at 28th – you would definitely enjoy stunning views of the city.

Upgrade
On our seventh and last night, we have been upgraded to an enormous 93 square metres studio-one-bedroom suite on the 50th floor (see picture). We enjoyed breathtaking views of Manhattan either at day and night and there was also a private terrace which we – unfortunately - cannot take advantage of because of a tight working schedule. All of our baggage have been packed and unpacked for the room move, but you have to authorize them for that.

Bathroom
Huge full marble bathroom with ample space. Features: englassed walk-in shower and separated bath-tub that really fills-in within 60 seconds, it is a promise – perfect for a last minute relaxing bath after a long day of work or sightseeing. Luxurious Bulgari Amenities that are replenished twice daily. Excellent turn down service as per the picture and very nice touch the plasma TV screen.

Restaurants
We dine once at the outstanding l’Atelier de Joel Robuchon where we experienced an excellent service. The ambience is sophisticated and elegant yet casual. The kitchen is open onto the dining area and you can see the Chef at work, which is basically the meaning of the word “Atelier”. The dishes are tasteful – even if you are not a French cuisine fan – and presentation is top notch. You can even choose less formal dining options such as Express Menu which we enjoyed at the fairly reasonable price of USD 54.

If you are looking for something less ambitious the 57 Restaurant is good as well and overlooks the main lobby. Great for business breakfast and/or lunch.

At the TY Bar you can choose among a wide range of Martinis for appetizers or cocktails. This is facing the main lobby too, with a very nice fireplace.

Breakfast:
It is not buffet, of course, and you can choose among the most sophisticated combination of cold and hot dishes according to your low fat diet, or choose a Breafast Menu such as American/Continental/Japanese/Central Park: I loved the Central Park Menu and also tried the Japanese one with the finest grilled salmon and green tea I have ever tried. All of them are approximately at USD 30, except for the Japanese USD 47, which is not that much for what it is included. One breakfast menu can be sufficient for 2 persons or even for three.
Fitness Centre:
500 square metres of space for your daily routine with complimentary juice/water and cut fruits. A wonderful experience to start or end your day in the city, better if combined with the Spa.

Spa:
Whirlpool, Jacuzzi and Turkish bath are perfect for relaxing in a tranquil environment. Did not have massage/treatments and cannot judge on the quality and service but it certainly is overpriced.

Negatives:
Do not have a swimming pool and the spa area needs much more air and open spaces.

Room features
I would have chosen parquet floors, instead of carpets, to give much more elegance to the room fittings.

Room Service:
Overpriced, in fact each dish is not inclusive of service charge, delivery charge, 17% tax and sales tax and - of course - you have to tip the waiter. If you are on budget, go for an a la carte breakfast in the restaurant.

Business Centre: the fee is expensive (i.e. 10 USD access + 1 USD per min + taxes) therefore, 1 hour for checking the e-mails and printing few pages comes to more than 70 USD. They should not charge for it and offer as complimentary.

Overall experience
This is definitely a place to stay in New York City.