Review Author

Lindsay Cohn

Contributing Writer

The Upper East Side is its own world—one of Sancerre-fueled lunches, charity galas at the Met, and morning walks in Central Park. Located just steps from the city’s most emblematic green space, The Surrey, a Corinthia Hotel, which opened its doors in October 2024, has become a neighborhood omphalos (and, dare we say, a worthwhile reason for the downtown crowd to venture uptown). 

The property isn’t exactly new—although its unsullied carpets and crisp linens certainly feel that way. It was previously a beloved old hotel frequented by John F. Kennedy and Bette Davis back in its heyday. The Malta-based Corinthia Hotels group saw a diamond that needed a good polish and, after a multi-year closure and big plans for the future, pulled the stay into its five-star fold (as its North American debut, no less), bringing maestro Martin Brudnizki to do the heavy lifting on the design. 

Tucked inside a landmarked building, interiors blend the hallmarks of classic luxury with Art Deco and contemporary touches, evoking the upscale townhouses that reside on the surrounding streets. The cream marble lobby is enhanced by vaulted ceiling lights, mirrored columns, and a statement reception desk. The art collection, curated by VISTO Gallery, spans decades and includes provocative photos by Robert Mapplethorpe, figurative prints by George Condo, and local talent such as Brooklyn-based artist Ethan Cook, hailed for his abstract, geometric canvas compositions. 

The spacious, residential-style rooms and suites show off a trio of colorways. Some are draped in soft blue, others in spring green, others in terracotta. The overall effect remains cohesive with consistent elements such as hand-crafted Murano chandeliers, bespoke furniture, and graceful cabinetry throughout. A rarity in the City That Never Sleeps: quietude—the kind that, when coupled with cloud-like beds and high thread-count sheets, makes a good night’s sleep as likely as seeing someone carrying a Chanel bag downstairs.

Casa Tua—the splashy Miami Italian institution known for its delicious food and sociable atmosphere, which now has strongholds in Aspen and Paris—opened its first Big Apple outpost at The Surrey. Large in size yet warm and inviting, the low-lit dining room is a place where forks clank and conversations carry. The superb wine list, handmade pasta (order the fan-favorite spaghetti a la Nerano), and see-and-be-seen status keep the tables perpetually packed. The swanky, fireplace-warmed lounge is a refined retreat that’s just as well suited for catching up over coffee as for aperitivo and after-dinner drinks. 

If the cocktails and chatter carry on a bit too late, there’s a spa for reviving Sisley Paris facials, sauna and steam sessions, and salt-fortified relaxation. Even if it doesn’t cure your headache, at least your face will look glowy and lifted. 

Fast Facts

Location: Upper East Side, New York 

Rating: Five-Star 

The Vibe: Classic Upper East Side elegance with a contemporary twist. 

Food + Drink: Casa Tua is the exclusive F&B partner. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. (Evenings draw a crowd, so be sure to book in advance.) The lounge pours daytime cappuccinos and after-dark cocktails. Guests can also indulge in Casa Tua room service. Twirling handmade cacio e pepe in a plush robe? Yes, please! 

Amenities: The Surrey Spa by Sisley Paris; fitness center; Casa Tua restaurant and lounge; concierge service; butler service for suite guests 

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The Surrey feels right at home in its elegant Upper East Side environs, while simultaneously bringing something new (and desperately needed) to the old-money neighborhood. Also, the leather keycard holders embossed with a big “S” reflect the level of attention to detail guests can expect. 

5 Nearby Attractions: Central Park; The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Madison Ave shopping; Guggenheim Museum; American Museum of Natural History 

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Ordering a martini at Bemelmans Bar is something of a UES rite of passage. For a mid-day break from the grind, slip into a swimsuit for a phone-free self-care session at AIRE Ancient Baths New York · Upper East Side. Carve out enough time to go through the thermal circuits a few times and

make use of the steam room and saltwater pool. Better yet, book a candlelit massage. 

Rooms: 70 rooms and 30 suites—including four stunning signature suites inspired by Central Park bridges 

Pricing: Rooms start at $1,000/night 

Closest Airport: LaGuardia Airport (LGA) or John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)