At the Essex House, a Facelift and a Seasonal Menu
by Cheryl RosenLike many of the celebrities who pass through her doors, the JW Marriott Essex House New York has had a little work done since being acquired by Marriott two years ago.
A $12 million facelift included upgrades to the executive lounge—which unlike those at most hotels is open on weekends as well as during the week—as well as the fitness center. “This hotel is as busy on the weekends as it is during the week,” says sales and marketing director Laura Weyrick.
Behind the scenes, renovations also included the HVAC system and the cell-phone towers.
The art-deco design and feel of the historic property overlooking Central Park remain, of course. The hotel has been home to notables and celebrities; “Angelina Jolie was a resident here for a long time,” Weyrick notes. But the 160 suites, 30 Park View suites, and 2 Terrace Suites now boast new furnishings and designer touches.
“Next we’ll be doing the guest rooms,” Weyrick said.
In the dining room, meanwhile, the focus is on seasonal vegetables. “It’s a weird part of the season,” executive sous chef Joseph Lavalle said last week. “We’re using charterelles, heirloom tomatoes, carrots and cauliflower, radicchio and escarole.”
Photo courtesy: Marriott
