ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: I flew to New York from our Sarasota offices after a brief series of meetings in Miami. After landing, I stopped for dinner at Harry Cipriani’s, a long-standing favorite that captures New York’s international scene. A short cab ride brought me to the Thompson, ideally situated in Midtown on West 56th Street. Previously known as Hotel Parker Méridien New York and later The Parker New York, the property has a rich history and reopened after a $100 million renovation as Thompson Central Park New York, part of the Hyatt family.
Check-in was efficient even at that late hour. After navigating the elevator layout, I reached my Studio Suite King on a high floor — a 450-square-foot city-view suite with more space than many Manhattan apartments.
GUEST QUARTERS: The suite felt freshly renovated with a mid-century vibe that could have fit into a Mad Men set. A built-in peninsula bar with two high stools overlooked the living area and the large city-facing window. I was welcomed with a small amenity of cheese and bottled water, which was a thoughtful touch. The living area included a plush crushed-velvet sofa with an attached lounger and a round glass coffee table that sparked a nostalgic memory of one I had as a child.
The bathroom was notable for one of the most spacious walk-in showers I’ve encountered. The shower’s half-glass design opened toward the door, creating a cleaner, more open feel. The bathroom fittings were tasteful, with Bowmakers shampoo and D.S. & Durga amenities adding a refined touch.
An open shelving unit extended from the window wall to divide the bedroom and living spaces, with a 47‑inch flat-screen TV mounted on each side. The king bed was comfortable with crisp white linens and a cozy duvet. Do remember to lower the blackout shades — there are offices and apartments directly across the street, so privacy and darkness matter for sleeping.
PHOTO: © THOMPSON CENTRAL PARK
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Parker’s, a lively bar on the lobby level near the 57th Street entrance, provides a convenient spot to gather before concerts or museum visits. The hotel’s location is close to Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Radio City Music Hall and Central Park. Parker’s serves breakfast, lunch and dinner — highlights include Wagyu sliders and seared scallops. On property, you’ll also find Burger Joint, a well-regarded, relatively secretive burger spot, and Indian Accent, both of which come highly recommended and are on my list for the next visit.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
- Convenient access to 57th Street makes it easy to reach Central Park and major cultural venues.
- The suite’s comfortable, thoughtfully designed spaces make it feel like a true urban retreat.
- Don’t miss the Burger Joint for a standout Manhattan burger experience.
THOMPSON CENTRAL PARK NEW YORK
119 W. 56th St.
New York, NY 10019
tel 212-245-5000
hyatt.com