Interview with The Inn at Irving Place General Manager Shawn Rettstatt
Q) What makes The Inn at Irving Place a unique experience for guests?
A) Located in a pair of brownstones from 1834, The Inn is a unique setting unlike a traditional larger hotel. With only 12 rooms and residences, we can offer personalized service and a comfortable setting not associated with a chair hotel. The experience is like having your own brownstone in New York. Located in the Gramercy Park and Union Square area, the neighborhood setting is classic New York. Many of the city’s best restaurants, shopping and the Union Square Farmers Market are just steps away. We are also a block from the Union Square Subway stop enabling all guests easy access to every part of New York City.
Q) Are there any “must-try” dishes or drinks indicative of the area that guests should order?
A) Lady Mendl’s five course afternoon tea is the best on NYC. In addition, our martini lounge, Cibar, offers a variety of inventive martinis and specialty cocktails.
Q) What are the three things about your property that guests may not know?
A) 1. It has had and may still have a few friendly “ghosts.” 2. With only 12 rooms and with no signage on the outside of the building, the setting is very private. You never know, an Oscar winner might be in the room next to you. 3. Two of the rooms (located on the 2nd and 3rd floors) can connect via the old servants’ staircase. This creates a unique “upstairs/downstairs” duplex setting.
Q) Can you take me through what a guest’s stay would be like and what an average day might entail in terms of activities, etc?
A) Upon arrival, they are transformed back in time to a golden age of New York. Guests are greeted with a glass of champagne or can relax in their room with a cup of tea. Continental Breakfast is served in the mornings and guests can leisurely read the New York Times while listening to classical music. Afternoons can be enjoyed with the five course tea service or a game of chess in the parlor salon. Billy Holiday and Jazz standards from the 20's and 30's play in the background. Evenings can be filled with cocktails in our martini lounge followed by a delicious dinner at one of the finest restaurants in the city. All just steps away.
Q) What elements about your property are truly luxurious?
A) Besides the Frette linens, period antiques, original architecture nuances and cozy fireplaces, the entire experience and setting creates the ambience of a brownstone setting that is now YOUR New York address.
Q) What is the best time to travel to The Inn at Irving Place?
A) All year but during the holiday season, The Inn shimmers and glows. Our well known “tea cup” Christmas tree is a favorite for guests.