My fabulous corner suite on the 20th floor is a high-ceilinged, marble-bathroom sanctuary with partial views of Central Park. Quiet, understated luxury, the suite boasts sparkling chandeliers, strategically placed table lamps, its own kitchenette and a marble fireplace, together with original 1920s pedestal sink and silver-plated taps. Standards include L’Occitane toiletries, complimentary soft drinks and mineral water, fresh flowers and evening turndowns replete with Belgian chocolates. And handily if you’re travelling à deux there’s a separate WC by the main entrance.
Wi-Fi is also free, as are local phone calls and a daily morning newspaper. This feels more home-from-home rather than a stuffy hotel. I also made good use of the complimentary business centre located in Suite 201. If you tire of all NYC’s attractions, there are two large widescreen TVs to get your ‘fake news’ fix.
A beautiful and refined feature of the Sherry-Netherland is her attended elevators. George, my wonderful elevator attendant has worked at the Sherry for 36 years. “It’s like a home to me,” he reveals. “The Sherry is my second family.” George clearly loves his job with a passion and was a superb source of local information – from the best coffee cart on 5th Avenue to the finest local restaurants off the tourist trail.
The Sherry’s concierge is also a valuable member of the team and will book your restaurants, theatre tickets, car hire and more. 24-hour security is taken very seriously here, and I felt very well taken care by all the staff, from the front desk to the lovely lady who cleaned my suite every day.
A welcome bonus is the small but well-equipped fitness centre located off the lobby. There’s a variety of TechnoGym stations here as well as a small weights room and Pilates machine.
Breakfast can be taken at the famous Harry Cipriani restaurant (modelled on Harry’s Bar in Venice) located on the hotel’s ground floor. Open from 7am to 11pm, this is UES power broker and ladies-who-lunch territory. I had breakfast there one morning – Sherry guests enjoy a 20% discount on all meals – and enjoyed the old-school vibe, although service was below par (burnt toast is a no-no). The Cipriani menu can also be delivered to your room (sans discount).
If hushed tones aren’t quite your thing then head for local breakfast options such as Sarabeth’s on Central Park South. Or be like a New Yorker and grab a coffee (excellent) and bagel from the cart on 5th Avenue and head for the Park before the hordes arrive. The juxtaposition between nature and skyscrapers in this oxygen-rich oasis always amazes me.
Other amenities at The Sherry include Emile’s barbershop and Privé by Laurent D hair and beauty salon, as well as A La Vieille Russie (Russian jewellery and collectibles) and Ghurka (high-end leather goods). Valet parking is located at West 58th between 5th and 6th Avenues.
Location, location, location. The smoke-free, pet-friendly Sherry is unbeatable – perfectly situated for shopping on Avenues Fifth and Madison, with luxury brands such as Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany, Cartier, Hermès, Chanel only a few minutes’ walk.
The Sherry-Netherland is a short taxi ride to 42nd Street theatres and of course neighbouring Museum Mile with the Guggenheim, Met (great roof terrace), Frick, the Zoo and the delights of Central Park beckoning visitors. The latter, a haven of peace among the skyscrapers, is ideal for releasing your inner child. Hire a model boat at Conservatory Water or row a real boat at the Loeb boathouse. If you prefer wheels to legs, hire a bike at the Columbus Circle entrance. Also located on the west side of the Park is the Lincoln Center, home to the New York City Ballet, the New York Philharmonic, the Metropolitan Opera and more.
There are so many great restaurants in the Upper East Side. If you’re looking for authentic dining, I recommend the Gallic offerings at Jacques Brasserie on E 85th, as well as Luna Rossa – a superb Italian on the same street. I enjoyed two great suppers there with my dear friend June who lives in the neighbourhood and knows her restaurants, as well as her wines.
If your stay at the Sherry-Netherland compels you to purchase your own piece of luxury New York real estate, a one-bed, two-bath 1,010 sq ft apartment with south and east views is currently listed at $2,590,000.
The Sherry has a special Suite Ninety Anniversary package, so visit their website for details. Quite simply one of the best and most ionic hotels in New York, the Sherry-Netherland is a reminder of the Golden Age of Manhattan and a unique experience to be savoured.
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