Located on the 18th floor of the hotel, the "jewel box" space by Med Abrous and Marc Rose, who are food and beverage partners of the hotel and co-founders of the hospitality group Call Mom, opens up to incredible views of the boroughs, the bridges and the East River, which shine like stars at night. Designed by James Beard Award-winning design firm Parts and Labor Design, Panorama Room is visually dramatic. Its palatial vibes are set by luxurious velvet vintage-inspired tubular lounge sofas, chrome and marble touches, mosaic tile columns and its giant, tubular acrylic chandeliers that hover above the massively long bar. It's not only luxe but it's somehow simultaneously futuristic and retro. The space is filled with art from artists like Julia Chiang, Spencer Lewis, Alake Shilling, JPW3, Chris Martin, Brian Belott and Ida Eklbad, selected by Venus Over Manhattan partner Anna Furney and designer/creative director Darren Romanelli (aka Dr. Romanelli or DRx). Artist Sophie Parker and her botanical studio, Wife NYC, will also make custom arrangements and sculptural artwork for the lounge. There's even a custom-designed DJ booth made in Normandy by Hervet Manufacturier and Cédric Hervet, the long-time creative director for Daft Punk.
The vibe: This is a swank place with a lot of cultivated ambiance, so there’s a cocktail attire dress code for entry i.e. no sweatpants, cargo shorts, or slides.
The food: Mostly raw preparations of seafood, so it’s not the kind of place you should eat if you’re strapped for cash or have an allergy. There’s a few other options, mostly consisting of veggies.
The drink: Some nice, seasonal cocktails plus a few beers and some wine.
Time Out tip: Check the forecast before you go then sit outside. Seriously. When we say the views here are breathtaking–some of the best in NYC–believe it. The RI tram isn’t like Central Park carriage rides–it’s not a gimmick, it’s not meant for tourists. Do everyone who has a commute home a big favor and take the F train.