There are some NYC hotels that have, over time, become synonymous with the city itself. The Carlyle is one of those New York grand dames that still manages to feel as relevant today as when it first opened in 1930. The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel, (its official name) has a prime location in the center of the elegant Upper East Side. Located a block from Central Park, its central tower can be seen throughout the neighborhood—as intrinsically a part of the upscale area as the flowers of Park Avenue.
A large part of what’s helped maintain this hospitality icon’s relevance has been its charming, idiosyncratic public venues: Bemelmans Bar, Café Carlyle and—more recently—Dowling’s at the Carlyle. During a recent stay, I was most looking forward to being able to drop in to experience these classic New York spots without having to step outside. (Especially since it happened to be downpouring that night.)
With 192 rooms and suites, there is a wide array of options for a night here. We stayed in an Upper East Side Suite which had a separate sleeping area as well as a full kitchen—perfect for those interested in a longer stay. The minimal, Art Deco design felt both modern and timeless. Meanwhile, the full (but quite tiny) kitchen was a useful touch that made our time here feel more like a home away from home than a hotel stay—one of The Carlyle’s superpowers. Another big bonus of a night here is hopping into one of the historic gold-trimmed elevators and soaring up to your throwback suite.
An interesting characteristic of The Carlyle is that, even with its reigning status as one of New York’s most high-profile hotels, it doesn’t have the grand hotel lobby you might expect to find. In fact, the elevator lobby and check-in area feel more like a very luxe hallway, adding to the venue’s discreet charm.
The hotel’s aforementioned public venues, however, are heavy on the glitz and glamor. Bemelman’s Bar, one of NYC’s best bars, features nightly live piano, expertly made cocktails and a one-of-a-kind wall mural designed by Ludwig Bemelman. Café Carlyle, which dates back to 1955, is a classic cabaret space that is a living embodiment of a particular New York dream. Dowling’s at The Carlyle, which opened in 2021, is a restaurant infused with early 20th century glam—we recommend the Carlyle Burger or the Truffle Eggs Benedict. (Dishes from Dowling’s can also be ordered via room service.)
It’s this combination of uniqueness and universality that continues to make The Carlyle a five-star stay and a solid choice for both tourists looking to find a still thriving piece of old New York and locals that want a fun staycation—heavy on the live music and cocktails.
Neighborhood
The Upper East Side is a classic New York neighborhood next to Central Park full of old-school restaurants, world-class art museums and lots and lots of money.
Nearby
The New York Society Library: For a glimpse into a history—this library was founded in 1754 making it New York’s oldest library.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art: For an unmatched cultural moment, this is Oone of the world’s most-famous art museums for a reason! You could spend a lifetime wandering its masterpiece-filled halls.
Albertine Bookstore: For a taste of France in the U.S. This hub of French culture and whimsical bookstore has the largest collection in the country of French-language books and translated French novels.
Time Out Tip
When you’re staying at the hotel, the front desk can assist with nightly reservations to Bemelmans.