Q) What makes The Surrey a unique experience for guests?
A) The philosophy of The Surrey focuses on authentic service tailored to the individual preferences of our guests. From a favorite bottle of wine, to tickets to The Whitney Museum of American Art; experiences at The Surrey are comprised of carefully crafted moments we hope will create long lasting memories.
Q) Can you explain what makes The Surrey appealing to travelers as a vacation destination?
A) Situated in Manhattan’s sophisticated Upper East Side neighborhood, The Surrey has won the hearts of style-icons, tastemakers and art aficionados the world over. Just steps from Central Park, guests have access to luxurious shopping along Madison Avenue, world-renowned museums and first-class restaurants. As New York City’s only Relais & Châteaux hotel, we showcase amenities like no other. The space hosts a collection of 31 original modern art works, including works from Chuck Close, Claes Oldenburg, Jimmie Martin and other modern masters. While in residence, guests can relax with a personalized treatment at Cornelia Spa; see inspiring panoramic skyline views from our 17th floor private roof garden; delight in a cocktail at Bar Pleiades or enjoy a meal at Café Boulud.
Q) Are there any “must-try” dishes or drinks at the resort that guests should order?
A) During the summer, the Signature muddled-lemonades in The Surrey’s Private Roof Garden cannot be missed. You pick your spirit, add in your favorite herbs, fruits and spices, and we will serve it up with crushed ice and a beautiful garnish. When the weather cools down, cozy up in Bar Pleiades with a piping Hot Toddy, with a blend of spicy and sweet that will keep you warm during the frigid winter months.
Q) What are the three things about your property that guests may not know?
A) 1. The Surrey is the only Relais & Chateaux hotel in New York City in more than 20 years. 2) The Surrey offers the Posh Pets program, a special package for guests traveling with their pets that includes a Surrey monogrammed bed, all-natural dog treats from Bocce’s Bakery, in-room biscuit menu, food and water bowls, and a take-home toy. 3) Cornelia Spa at The Surrey opened in July 2012, offering guests a curated treatment menu paired with botanical tastings.
Q) Can you take me through what a guests stay would be like and what an average day might entail in terms of activities, etc.?
A) Awaken with a morning breakfast in your salon prepared by Michelin-starred Café Boulud. Refresh in the afternoon with a Caviar & Oxygen Reparative Quench facial at Cornelia Spa. Then make your way downstairs for cocktail hour at Bar Pleaides with a signature Old Fashioned before heading out for a New York night on the town.
Q) What elements about your property are truly luxurious?
A) The Surrey redefines classic luxury in that its philosophy of service is dedicated to exceed guests’ expectations, with a modern twist. After undergoing a $65 million dollar renovation in 2009, interior designer Lauren Rottet created The Surrey’s 189 Salons and Suites to reflect a timeless residence, complete with a collection of 31 original modern artworks displayed throughout the hotel. Two specialty suites, the Presidential and Penthouse, feature fireplaces, spacious living and dining rooms, and private terraces with breathtaking views of the iconic New York skyline.
Q) What advice do you have for guests who are staying at your resort?
A) Reserve our Family Time package when traveling with your loved ones. With this promotion, book a one-bedroom suite and receive a connecting room, special edition My City, My New York guidebook, customized My Vacation children’s sticker book, and two complimentary passes to experience a family program at The Whitney Museum of American Art.
Q) What is the best time to travel to The Surrey?
A) The Surrey is ideal in any season. Summertime, for lemonade on the Private Roof Garden; autumn for the changing leaves in Central Park; and springtime, for a stroll up Fifth Avenue to the best museums and galleries. But after the holiday season rush is over, The Surrey is the most magical, when snowfall on 76th Street sets a picture perfect New York scene.