The Waldorf Astoria in NYC is a legendary hotel that screams glamour, luxury, high class, and exclusive. It's one of those places that's a sight to see for all the famous and well-known people that have stayed there throughout the years. It's simply historic. Frank Sinatra kept a suite there for many years, and it was the residence of Herbert Hoover for a few years, as well. Katherine Hepburn, Muhammed Ali, Vince Lombardi, Judy Garland, Zsa Zsa Gabor among many others have all stayed there.
The hotel is located at 301 Park Avenue between 49th and 50th street. It's often used for private galas and dinners. In the Spring of 2017, the Waldorf will be closing down for three years for renovations. Rumor has it that a company bough it over and is turning into luxury suites and apartments.
Three years is a lot, right? In that case I decided that I was going to scramble money and stay there for a night. (I stayed with a friend–the only way I can afford it was to break the check, so future employers– please continue to give me that raise).
I had been to the Waldorf before a Gala, but was only able to see the ballroom from that. I needed see more.
I wanted to know what all the hype was about and it was something to check off my bucket list. I also wanted a chance to try food in the legendary Peacock Alley. Brunch was on my mind and it was the best part of the whole stay. It had every food group and everything was so delicately dressed and cooked. The food was to do die for from the lamb to fresh oysters, my mouth was watering at first glance.
The moment I entered I was immersed in luxury. The lobby was huge, and in the middle stood the historic clock tower. I got a regular queen room and freaked out because the soap and toiletries were from Salvatore Ferragamo. The regular room wasn't that out of the world, but it was the small details that made it The Waldorf.
If there was something that could've completed the experience for better, it would've been the customer service. The people were nice, but weren't as welcoming as I pictured them out to be.
To be honest, I'd rate the experience 3.8/5. If you want comfort, you're better off staying at a cheaper hotel because you'll get the same quality (besides the designer soap). But if you want or need to be in presence of luxury outside your room, than the Waldorf would be perfect for you.
Keep in mind that this just my opinion from staying in a regular queen room. I haven't stayed or seen the suites, but I'm from the things I've heard, those would probably be a 5/5.
Did my body deserve to be soaped in such luxury?
Peacock's Brunch included a complimentary Mimosa!