Riding on the Name - Ritz Carlton New York Central Park
I want to start by saying that it can be incredibly condensing and privileged to complain about a luxury hotel. That being said, as one Youtuber says, never mistake criticism for a lack of gratitude. The Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park had a lot to live up to, being a Ritz Carlton, in New York, and right beside Central Park. It has gotten an elevated price point to match, with base rooms regularly running $1,000.
Overview
I’ve stayed a few Ritz Carltons (Miami, Toronto, Hong Kong), and while I thought they definitely were good places to stay, only the Hong Kong one blew me away. The first Ritz Carlton in the US actually opened in New York City, although it has since been demolished. The current Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park went through several owners before becoming a Ritz Carlton in 2002.
Probably the best thing about this hotel is it’s location, just steps (literally!) across from Central Park in New York.
From the outside, the building gives off a very old, grand sense - the funny thing is that across the street there is a halal cart, reminding you that you are still in modern day New York.
I must say the attention to detail for the outside (and soon you’ll see inside) is still there - it’s a good mix of modern and timeless.
If the lobby looks small, that’s because it is. Welcome to New York.
The lobby contains a concierge and front desk, as well as the Contour Gastro Lounge and Bar. I will say, despite the small size, the common areas are certainly well designed and anointed, a result of the recent rennovations.
Room
We went up the rinky dinky classic elevators up to the 20th floor, and enter the Guest room, 1 King, No view, High floor room.
There is where the price point doesn’t match up with expectations - considering this is a $1,000+ hotel room, I’ll let the view speak for itself.
A Guest room, 1 King, Central Park view, High floor, with the hilariously named room code “View”, costs ~$200 more. I would definitely book that instead, or check out a rooftop bar in the city.
The base rooms start at 425 sqft, which is extremely respectable for the city, as most New York luxury hotels have base rooms of ~300 sqft. The space allows for a small living area anchored by a small TV and dresser.
The rest of the space is taken up by a large and comfy bed, along with nightstands on either side.
I still find it hilarious they offer 2 windows that overlook…other tall buildings that are blocking your space. New York does have air rights, and this hotel shows how important they are.
My friend was using the bathroom, and so I wasn’t able to take a picture of the countertop. Imagine it’s similar to any luxury hotel. One small thing is, if you can see from the pictures, the towels are a bit thin.
Overall, a fairly standard room with a terrible view. And equally questionable carpet choices.
Amenities
Being a city hotel in New York City, the amenities are fairly limited. I do appreciate that the fitness center is fairly comprehensive, and provides Gatorade as well.
There is a small but functional business center.
As well as a spa called La Prairie Spa - just be aware that these prices are New York City Ritz Carlton prices.
Finally, there is a club lounge, but given this is the Ritz Carlton, note that one doesn’t get access to it even with Titanium / Ambassador status.
The Point
We didn’t really interact with any team members, so I can’t say anything about the service. Overall, a fairly typical New York City luxury hotel that is extremely overpriced. I have the same feedback about the St. Regis New York, another famous address. Unless I had unlimited funds, I would probably spend it on a 4 star hotel instead, and save the rest of the money for the million things that New York offers / a rooftop bar. Just so it doesn’t sound too negative, I did appreciate the decor of the common areas, as well as the gym.
