The Waldorf Astoria New York's Park Avenue lobby Credit: Waldorf Astoria New York
Eight years after it closed for renovations that would turn some of its guest room supply into residences, the renowned Waldorf Astoria New York again has begun to accept hotel guest bookings, Hilton Worldwide announced Tuesday.
Now featuring 375 guest rooms, the hotel also is accepting reservations for three onsite restaurants: bar Peacock Alley, American brasserie Lex Yard and Japanese restaurant Yoshoku. About 43,000 square feet of meeting and event space is set to open Sept. 1, including the hotel's Grand Ballroom.
Located at 301 Park Ave. in Manhattan, the recent history of the property that opened in 1931 and for decades was one of the largest luxury hotels in the world has been twisty. Sold by Hilton in 2015 to Beijing-based Anbang Insurance Group Co. for $1.95 billion, the property, which then had 1,400 guest rooms, was closed in 2017 to refurbish the property and convert upper floors to condominium residences.
But Anbang subsequently declared bankruptcy and its U.S. assets, including the Waldorf Astoria were assumed by the Dajia Insurance Group Co. The project slowed as its cost cracked $2 billion, exceeding its budget. Dajia hired Hilton to manage the property.
"In many ways, Waldorf Astoria New York is the most important hotel in the world," Hilton president and CEO Christopher Nassetta said in a Tuesday statement. "We look forward to once again welcoming guests to experience its timeless charm and modern enhancements, as this hotel and Waldorf Astoria properties around the world set the standard for luxury stays."
In the years since it sold the Waldorf Astoria New York, Hilton has continued to expand the Waldorf Astoria brand on its luxury properties throughout the world. The brand now has 36 open properties, including the 252-room Waldorf Astoria Osaka, which opened in Japan in April, and 33 more in the pipelines, with planned 2025 openings including properties in Shanghai and Morocco, and 2026 openings in London and Kuala Lumpur.
The Waldorf Astoria New York includes 372 residences.