NEW YORK CITY — After years of careful restoration, the iconic Waldorf Astoria New York has officially begun its reopening season, welcoming guests to a reimagined experience that blends historic elegance with modern design.
Located at 301 Park Avenue, Waldorf Astoria New York reopening unveils renovated guest rooms and suites, new dining destinations including Chef Michael Anthony’s Lex Yard, and the return of the beloved Peacock Alley. With reservations now open, guests can once again step inside one of New York City’s most legendary hotels.
Waldorf Astoria New York Reopening – Historic Transformation
The reopening marks the end of a massive preservation and design project led by architecture firm
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), with interiors by Pierre-Yves Rochon. The building’s Art Deco roots remain intact, while new updates include automated lighting, custom furnishings and upgraded guest amenities.
Originally opened in 1931, the Waldorf Astoria has long been recognized as a landmark of New York luxury. Its restoration was done in close coordination with the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, with over 62,000 square feet of interior space designated as historic. Murals, marble, mosaics and signature design elements like the famous Waldorf Astoria Clock and Cole Porter’s piano have all been carefully restored.
Chris Nassetta, president and CEO, Hilton says,
“In many ways, Waldorf Astoria New York is the most important hotel in the world. 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.”
Waldorf Astoria Guest Rooms: Fewer Rooms, More Space
Once home to 1,400 rooms, the Waldorf Astoria now features 375 spacious hotel rooms and 372 private residences. Most hotel rooms now offer over 570 square feet of space, with layouts designed to feel like private apartments. Each room comes with walk-in showers, spa-style bathrooms and handcrafted furniture inspired by the Art Deco era.
The hotel also introduces a new signature scent, 301 Park Avenue, developed by Fueguia 1833, which is infused throughout the public spaces and residences.
Waldorf Astoria Restaurants: Three New Culinary Experience
Food lovers have three new dining options inside the Waldorf Astoria:
Peacock Alley – The legendary lounge returns with cocktails crafted by Jeff Bell of Please Don’t Tell (PDT) fame, and live performances at the historic Cole Porter piano. Light bites and full meals are served throughout the day in a space rich with historic design details.
Lex Yard – This new two-story brasserie is led by Chef Michael Anthony and offers refined American cuisine, from caviar sandwiches to poached halibut. With 220 seats and private dining rooms, it’s designed for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Yoshoku – An intimate Japanese dining spot offering a modern kaiseki-inspired tasting menu. Highlights include lobster with clarified butter and toro tartare with caviar.
Event Spaces and Spa Return September 1
By September 1, the hotel’s 43,000 square feet of event spaces will reopen, including the famed Grand Ballroom and Jade, Astor and Basildon Rooms. A new Guerlain Wellness Spa is also expected to launch soon, further enhancing the luxury experience.
Waldorf Astoria Residences
Above the hotel, 372 private residences offer luxury living with full access to hotel services. Designed by Jean-Louis Deniot, the condominiums include everything from studios to grand four-bedroom apartments with private terraces. Residents have access to over 50,000 square feet of private amenities and can purchase fully furnished homes through a special collaboration with B&B Italia.
Arrival Experience and Details
With Waldorf Astoria New York Reopening, guests now have access to three entrances, including a discreet private porte-cochère on 49th Street — the only one of its kind in Manhattan. The Park Avenue entrance is once again crowned by the iconic “Spirit of Achievement” statue, restored to mark the hotel’s revival.
Even the staff uniforms have been updated in collaboration with British designer Nicholas Oakwell, reflecting the building’s heritage and the city’s evolving style.
A New Era for a New York Classic
As the Waldorf Astoria New York begins this new chapter, it balances the weight of its past with a refreshed experience for today’s travelers and residents. Whether you’re dining at Lex Yard, attending a gala in the Grand Ballroom or staying in one of the newly designed suites, the hotel once again stands as a symbol of elegance in Midtown Manhattan.
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