The Lowell, a New York hotel favored by international travelers, has completed a major renovation that introduces a new restaurant, bar, lobby and club room. The centerpiece of the update is Majorelle, a restaurant named in honor of Jacques Majorelle and opening concurrent with celebrations of his birthday.
Charles Masson, the restaurant’s manager, collaborated with the hotel owners, general manager Heiko Kuenstle, architect Mark Pinney and designer Michael S. Smith to realize this project. Masson designed a kitchen that is rare in New York: it includes a dedicated braisiere for crafting delicate broths, sauces, soups and soufflés with consistent precision.
The menu showcases refined dishes that emphasize seasonal ingredients and classic techniques. Examples include foie gras accompanied by warm apple delice; roasted chicken with thyme, potato mousseline, baby vegetables, tarragon, turmeric and laurel; and grilled shrimp threaded on rosemary skewers served with saffron rice.
Guests arrive at Majorelle through Jacques, an intimate bar space finished with leather-paneled walls, an antique mirrored ceiling and a marble counter. Jacques is designed to accommodate an array of needs—from private gatherings to casual lunches—offering expertly mixed cocktails, Mediterranean and Moroccan small plates, and a selection of light dishes available throughout the day.
The dining room opens onto a striking garden area featuring lush plantings, water features and a fireplace, creating an indoor-outdoor atmosphere. Adjoining the restaurant is The Club Room, a tranquil lounge stocked with a curated selection of art books, a fireplace and its own bar. Classic details such as crown moldings, French oak parquet floors and hand-painted paneling evoke the feel of a private city club while maintaining a warm, contemporary sensibility.
The Club Room functions as a quiet retreat for hotel guests during daytime hours and transforms into a public lounge after 4 p.m., remaining open until midnight. This arrangement provides guests with a secluded, comfortable space for work or relaxation by day, and a refined social setting by night.
Overall, the renovation positions The Lowell as a refined urban sanctuary, combining thoughtful design, intimate gathering spaces and a cuisine-driven restaurant that reflects both Mediterranean and North African influences. With its new culinary offerings, elegant bar, and serene club room, the hotel reinforces its reputation as a preferred destination for discerning travelers seeking comfort, style and exceptional service in New York City.