New managers Jumeirah Hotel Group aimed high with a $90 million refurbishment program for this famed property; both common areas and guest rooms have been recently updated. The lobby of this stately Central Park South property is an art-deco masterpiece, with inlaid marble floors and bas-relief elevator doors. Dreaming of Central Park? It's across the street. Reproductions of Chippendale or Louis XV antiques decorate guest rooms, all of which have marble bathrooms and luxuriously comfortable beds. Afternoon tea in the lobby lounge is elegantly arranged. Kerry Heffernan's South Gate draws a European crowd to its design-y interior with an extensive wine list. Pros: great service; amazing views; freshly renovated head to toe. Cons: overly complex room gadgetry; very expensive bar.
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