Opinions of Waldorf Astoria
Feb 24th, 2001, 06:04 AM
#1
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Opinions of Waldorf Astoria
We have reservations at the Waldorf because I heard it was a nice historical hotel. I am going in March with my two daughters and the waldorf (i called them directly) upgraded my res. to the concierge level because I am a Hilton Honors member. I have read some poor reviews of it! I am hoping we will not be disappointed! Also, does anyone know of some nice restaurants near by that do not serve real gourmet food? My two daughters prefer common dinners like a steak with baked potato and I've noticed a lot of restaurants have a very gourmet menu. I was thinking maybe Wild Blue in the World Trade Center? thank you for comments!
Feb 24th, 2001, 06:14 AM
#2
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Have stayed at the Waldorf several times. We stayed there most recently several months ago. We stayed in a junior suite. It was spacious for NYC. It is an older hotel....keeping that in mind...if does offer some historical charm and ambiance. I would however have to admit I would not be oppsed to staying some where else if we could get reservations. We tend to go to NYC when it is the most difficult to get reservation...so our choices are usually very limited. The Waldorf is lovely, not my first choice, because I now think it borders on old as well as historical ... depending upon which floor and what room you stay in....We are headed to NYC this week to visit my son who lives there....he has made reservations for us at Giambelli's and Fresco's by Scotto. We have never been to either restaurant...my son loves fine restaurants...I will be bet these are at least very good...
Feb 24th, 2001, 09:29 AM
#4
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It is not the flashiest, but it was my favorite place of all the hotels we stayed at in NY. I guess it is the romance of the place. Imagining the dances and events that used to happen there. We also appreciated the freindly bartender downstairs who told us what it was like many years ago, all the while being so courteous and genuine it made us ralize how hotel service has changed over the years.There is a place to eat next to the bar that has steak and basic fare. I bet it is not inexpensive though.
I know that my teen might not have appreciated the place like we did.I think it was a Carly Simon song that created my vision of the place.
Makes sure to do a text search as previous posters have listed many places to dine in this area over the year.Hope you have a great time!
I know that my teen might not have appreciated the place like we did.I think it was a Carly Simon song that created my vision of the place.
Makes sure to do a text search as previous posters have listed many places to dine in this area over the year.Hope you have a great time!
Feb 26th, 2001, 07:45 AM
#5
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When some of the criticism is "it's old," I wonder if you can be more specific ... why was that not a good thing? Old can mean charm, beauty, high ceilings ... or worn out plumbing and other nuisances. I read somewhere that the rooms were soundproofed ... true? And not worth more than $120 for the concierge level? What was the problem?! I don't know what anyone could find in NYC for $120. The Waldorf is in a great location and is a sight to see unto itself. I'd really like to know more SPECIFICS about why it's not so hot, since we're going there in July -- and staying on the concierge level!!
Feb 26th, 2001, 07:59 AM
#6
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It's so fancy that there are attendants in the washrooms.
For some kids, especially those uninterested in trying New York's more adventursome restaurants, it could well be overkill.
It's as fancy and high brow as a hotel can get.
But, if you want to take your kids up a notch or two in sophistication and the price is OK, you can't beat it for a New York experience.
Now, as to food. If you stay at the Waldorf, go out the south side door and walk east a block to Smith & Woellensky's steak house.
Once again, bring plenty of money. It's a traditional NY steak house, with huge cuts of meat, giant lobsters, a great wine selection, and, every time I've been there, waiters who may appear gruff, but who love their jobs and welcome newcomers to their restaurant.
Other teenager-favorite restaurants I'd suggest are America and the Carnegie Deli. Depending on where you are from, you might find the Tennessee Mountain House in Soho to be a treat. Great ribs, lots of other lower priced items, and many genuine NYC families there.
And, if you time your visit to the South Street Seatport to match up with a mealtime, the fast food outlets there have a lot of variety, good prices, and interesting views over the river while you eat. Kids can have a hot dog, or some oysters if they are feeling adventuresome.
BAK
For some kids, especially those uninterested in trying New York's more adventursome restaurants, it could well be overkill.
It's as fancy and high brow as a hotel can get.
But, if you want to take your kids up a notch or two in sophistication and the price is OK, you can't beat it for a New York experience.
Now, as to food. If you stay at the Waldorf, go out the south side door and walk east a block to Smith & Woellensky's steak house.
Once again, bring plenty of money. It's a traditional NY steak house, with huge cuts of meat, giant lobsters, a great wine selection, and, every time I've been there, waiters who may appear gruff, but who love their jobs and welcome newcomers to their restaurant.
Other teenager-favorite restaurants I'd suggest are America and the Carnegie Deli. Depending on where you are from, you might find the Tennessee Mountain House in Soho to be a treat. Great ribs, lots of other lower priced items, and many genuine NYC families there.
And, if you time your visit to the South Street Seatport to match up with a mealtime, the fast food outlets there have a lot of variety, good prices, and interesting views over the river while you eat. Kids can have a hot dog, or some oysters if they are feeling adventuresome.
BAK
Feb 27th, 2001, 08:33 AM
#8
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I agree that the Waldorf is a wonderful hotel and right in the heart of the city, so you won't have any problems getting around town. The hotel is a block away from the subway and close to all the shopping on Madison Ave and 5th Ave. (Your Daughters will LOVE Daffy's which is on Madison at 44th st, great shopping and great prices).
The concierge level is very nice and in the evening I believe there is a nice cocktail/munchies for a bit of relaxation, and of course a bit better service.
The lobby is not to be missed in touring the city.
For restaurants, in the area, head over to 3rd Ave, as there are restaurants on each block there, so you should find something everyone likes. There is also a bit of a food court at the Citi Corp and California Pizza Kitchen off third at 60th st, and a must for your daughters is the little ice cream shop there with amazing frozen hot chocolate, someone else will remember the name.
Have a fun time while you are here.
The concierge level is very nice and in the evening I believe there is a nice cocktail/munchies for a bit of relaxation, and of course a bit better service.
The lobby is not to be missed in touring the city.
For restaurants, in the area, head over to 3rd Ave, as there are restaurants on each block there, so you should find something everyone likes. There is also a bit of a food court at the Citi Corp and California Pizza Kitchen off third at 60th st, and a must for your daughters is the little ice cream shop there with amazing frozen hot chocolate, someone else will remember the name.
Have a fun time while you are here.
Feb 27th, 2001, 09:35 AM
#10
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Cafe Un Deux Trois is right around there on W. 46th (I think) street off of Broadway. It is a low-key, largely pre-theater restaurant that gives everyone crayons when they come in to draw on the tablecloths -- I think your kids would be happy (although I don't know how old they are). Serendipity is a must for any age.
