A Hotel for 2 Seasons
It is really a shame I have to give this property 2 stars since it deserves 3.5 to 4.0. However, I believe a hotel must fulfill some very basic functions, such as providing a comfortable bed and heat or air conditioning.
The room itself, a decent sized suite (room 1820), is very nice by New York standards. It has two flat screen televisions, a comfortable bed, a couch, desk and nice task lighting. The bathroom could be bigger, especially the bath area, but is sufficient. It also has a balcony and full wall windows, and therein lies the problem. If you go in October, as I did, they have not yet turned on the heat. So, when it is in the 40's outside, the room is in the mid 60's and does not get warmer. Maybe I was supposed to knit myself a sweater with the hair that was in the tub from the prior guest.
When I called down and asked about the heat I was told they don't turn it on until late October, so if you come in November the hotel is fine. My guess is they don't turn the air on until June, so maybe you should stay away until then as well. Bottom line is that hotel has a responsibility, especially at $400+ a night, to provide heat and A/C. If they can't, then they have failed in a very basic need. It does not matter how nice a room is if you can't be in the room comfortably. My travel companions where in different rooms and also were very uncomfortable., The hotel's response was to send me an inadequate portable heater. A hotel of this quality should be able to provide basic service and the failure to do so is a failure to invest the necessary money in modern technology and is inexcusable.
The lobby is fine and has a decent amount of seating area, a nice bar and a restaurant with a breakfast buffet, though it is very very pricey. Go around the corner to Pax and save a bundle. The staff is well trained and very nice. they also have a good concierge to get play and other tickets or reservations.
Bottom line, for the money, why take the chance on the weather when there are many similar hotels nearby that have proper HVAC.