The Plaza Hotel

768 5th Avenue
Manhattan, New York
(212) 546-5300
http://www.theplazany.com/

My Rating: 86%
Price Rating: $$$$$

Summary of Stay: Iconic hotel in an ideal location in New York City. Since a portion of the hotel was converted into condos, the hotel seems to have a smaller boutique feeling. Even though the grand lobby and check-in desk are less glamorous than I was lead to believe from movies and photo shoots, the hotel is still very well appointed. Rooms are luxurious and very well appointed especially since the hotel underwent a multi-million dollar restoration a few years back. The location of the hotel is across the street from world class shopping, attractions and tour bus stops. Finally - the service here is unmatched: each floor has their own butler service, check-in staff are friendly and accommodating, and the concierges are top notch. All of their recommendations were better than promised.

Each time I've stayed at the hotel, I've been impressed with the rooms: multiple windows, oversized bathrooms, butler's pantries, and rich decor. The bedding and linens are top notch. But don't expect much for views from your room since the best views are mostly allocated to the condos facing the park.

Room service was incredible and the taste was rivalled by it's presentation. Old school service at it's very best. We also had afternoon tea at the Palm Court; touristy but also a NYC luxury. The Palm Court transports you back to the historical brilliance and this hotel's reputation was built upon.

Highlight of the Room: The in-room iPad that allows you to access the internet, make reservations, order room service, and manage in room controls. Nice touch - especially for travellers who do not want to pack their own laptops.

Highlight of the Hotel: The service really sets this hotel apart from many others. From the consideration to sending up a piece of birthday cake and a bottle of wine to driving us in the hotel’s limo to Rockefeller Centre, to arranging impossible dinner reservations, the hotel ensures that it looks after its’ guests. The Plaza is professionally managed by Fairmont Hotels.

Highlight of the Stay: Tea at the Palm Court really was worth every penny. Having taken high tea at several notable addresses, the Palm Court delivers. Notably - the servers are very professional and personable. Reservations are highly recommended and is a great idea for anyone, even if not staying at the hotel.

Drawbacks: While the hotel has five doors that open out onto Fifth avenue, they only keep one open. This causes large bottlenecks to get into and out of the hotel. Because the hotel is a tourist attraction, the hotel tries to keep tourists from getting past the main lobby. Daily we’d have to show our room keys in order to just get to the elevators, where the keys were again required to operate the elevator. Also - the taxi line is terribly busy because tourists find it handy. The hotel should designate one door/entrance for hotel guests only as well as a separate taxi line for paying guests.