The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

I don't normally write reviews for restaurants in hotels unless I am staying at the hotel, but making an exception here. Recently stopped into the Ritz Carlton NYC alone, while on a long walk, to get a lovely breakfast and experience the hotel. The hostess at the cafe was talking to another customer for a couple minutes and when the bellman saw this, he came up, asked how he could help, and then led me back to the restaurant and helped me to be seated at a lovely spot by the window. The staff then took excellent care of me - even after I made it clear from the beginning that I was not staying there at the hotel. I wanted to write this brief review because in my opinion the interactions I had that morning epitomize two of the things that Ritz Carlton made its name by (many decades ago) with Horst Schulze at the helm: first, that the team that works there are "ladies and gentlemen taking care of ladies and gentlemen" AND that every single member of the team there is empowered to make things right for every guest of the hotel. Happy to see this in action. Well done Ritz Carlton Central Park!

The service level in the Ritz is always impeccable and the location is great. So why my ‘average’ rating: the view out of my room was a dark inner court (and not Central Park), the pressure of the showers was inadequate and I couldn’t find a coffee machine in my room (all luxury hotels add these days a Nespresso machine - or something similar). Add to that the ridiculous prices. Example: you pay $25 for a small glass of orange juice (ie over $30 if you include service) and that is just excessive.

I’ve been staying here almost since they opened 25 years ago - and am at the end of a 3 night stay. It feels like a home away from home - but things have certainly changed over the years. The service is much less consistent than it used to be (e.g., Club service was great at times like on evening of 3/22 and 3/23, but during other times service was mediocre at best…and that’s if there was even anyone visibly working in the club). There was also no welcome note or amenity, despite me staying here for 25 years, which is a simple but nice gesture. Sometimes I need to make multiple requests for simple items, which can be frustrating. The rooms still need a refresh, despite a recent update several years ago (e.g., curtains/shades are old/broken, toilet seat is cheap and loud, furniture has tears, marble in bathroom/shower is showing age/mold, doors/doorways in hallways are visibly damaged (and have been for years and years). Housekeeping carts, vacuums, etc are just left in hallways - something I’ve noticed consistently since this hotel has been open. I’ve made these suggestions and reviews for the last few years, and even brought up some concerns with the last GM, but it’s always the same response “we apologize and we’ll look into it”, but nothing changes. Doormen (Felix/Joe) are great as always. Location is top-notch. I did appreciate the early check-in and late check-out. If I didn’t have an emotional connection to this hotel, it’s hard to justify staying here when there are other options nearby (Baccarat, Aman, FS, etc). I will say, if you’re looking into the Nomad Ritz - stay VERY far away from there. The service and location of that hotel is abysmal, and not a true Ritz. The Central Park location is much, much better.

Great hotel, with a wonderful history. Everything is flawless, that’s the only downfall.. that’s it’s too flawless. You miss a certain personality what makes it feel more genuine and authentic. It’s a bit robotic because they want to have it so perfect. If they would create this personal touch it would be a 10/10

I like nice architectural building, old or modern but only those which are pleasing eye. We saw this hotel from the Central Park but better view was when we stood in front of it and looked up. Screeming Art Deco which I love. I found that it was built in 1930's and the original name was Hotel St. Moritz. Through the years changed the owner several times, some wanted to changed it but luckily is still standing on the place and we can admire it. We haven't been inside as my husband has always "problem" to go in and see how it looks inside when we are staying at other place. But on our next visit to the city I will push him to venture in.