An Icon Resurfaces: The Grand Return of The Waldorf Astoria
New York is about to welcome back one of its most iconic hotels – the legendary Waldorf Astoria. Its long-anticipated reopening is just around the corner and with it, three brand-new restaurants.
The Waldorf Astoria has long been New York's epitome of elegance, sophistication and cultural relevance. Having been a consistent presidential favorite from Grover Cleveland to Franklin Roosevelt – with Herbert Hoover having lived in the Presidential Suite for more than three decades – the hotel boasts a pedigree few can match. Beyond political figures, the Waldorf also became a favored destination for famous personalities such as Frank Sinatra, Albert Einstein and Marilyn Monroe, and notably served as the childhood home of Paris Hilton, whose family owned the property at the time.
Therefore, it was sad to see their doors close in 2017, after The Hilton Group sold the historic property for $1.95 billion while retaining a lease to run the property. Upon the takeover, the eventual owners, Dajia Insurance Group, invested in a complete refurbishment of the historic building, and now the project is about to bear fruit: With Luigi Romaniello acting as Managing Director, the grand hotel is ready for its next chapter. Now boasting a reduced number of rooms to help elevate the guest experience, the Waldorf Astoria shines again, and is poised to reestablish itself with a trifecta of new restaurants.
At the heart of the Waldorf Astoria’s new culinary concept is Lex Yard, the hotel’s signature restaurant, led by celebrated Chef Michael Anthony with a focus on seasonal American cuisine. Joining the lineup is the Peacock Alley Lounge, a hallmark of the hotel’s legacy. And to complete the trio, guests can immerse themselves in Yoshoku, a refined Japanese dining experience that blends East and West with a dash of creativity. All three venues are already taking reservations – just in time for the grand return of this legendary address.