A Love Letter to the St. Regis, NYC
As the coronavirus continues to grip my favorite city of New York, I find myself making vows of where I plan to go once this terrible crisis is over. It’s a horrible, powerless feeling to know that so many are suffering there.
One thing I have found that helps me when I feel helpless is to grab my calendar, devise a plan and make a list.
Staying at home in the countryside of New Jersey, I am plotting like a chess master champion how I plan to (Lord willing) shop, dine and support all the businesses and restaurants that are being hurt by this pandemic, both locally and in Manhattan.
New York City has faced hard times before and will overcome. This too shall pass.
I don’t know when that day back in the city will begin, but I know for sure how it will end; with a nice gin and tonic at The King Cole Bar in the St. Regis Hotel. It’s one of my favorite places and I haven’t been for a couple of years.
I always come into the St. Regis through the lobby entrance even when I am not staying there. To be greeted immediately and warmly as “madam” is not terrible. I love the marble, the gilt, the ceiling frescoes, and the reception desk.
That mirror, the flowers, that mailbox!
The service and the treatment given by those who have proudly worked at the St. Regis for many years is truly special. To me, it’s the epitome of how you would expect an iconic New York hotel steeped in history and luxury to look and feel.
It even smells perfect.
Down the hall and past the library lies the Astor Court, where my eldest daughter and I once enjoyed high tea one lovely afternoon.
The harp was playing. The crustless tea sandwiches, mini quiches and baby sliders were consumed. We didn’t know if we could finish the triple decker plates of sweets and fluffy macaroons.
We managed.
Oh yes, we also found room for pink champagne.
It wasn’t just a meal. It was a memory! I can’t wait to take my youngest daughter for this great tradition so I may sit across the table and admire her as well.
The first time I went to the King Cole Bar years ago, I remember coming in with a post-museum going, splitting headache. It was a whopper. It was hot outside and I was mighty grumpy.
Thirty minutes later after that first cocktail and yummy bar munchies, I was feeling no pain.
Old King Cole (that merry old soul) with his mischievous expression and court members were all aglow in that amazing Maxfield Parrish mural behind the bar. A cool drink amid great art? I was in love.
If you go, you must quiz the bartender for the funny secret behind the artwork. No spoilers here.
The real magic at The King Cole Bar is not just in the great drinks or service, although they have never disappointed. It is the people I have met there.
I remember a super charming couple from Atlanta who were making their annual pilgrimage. Every year, this husband takes his wife to New York to shop and stay at the St. Regis for her birthday. Smart man!
On another visit, I chatted with someone who shared my interest in history. We compared notes on world leaders past and agreed on which ones saved the world.
I now follow an acquaintance I met there on Instagram and enjoy the world travels he takes with his husband. We shared a spirited discussion of which Real Housewives we loved and hated.
On that subject, my daughter and her bestie once spotted Ramona Singer herself there one night. Darn, I missed it! Whenever I am there, it seems like the “Gods of Interesting Conversation and Chic People” seem to come through for me. It’s such a special spot!
Another fine food and beverage opportunity at the St. Regis comes via your very own butler when you have the privilege of actually staying there. That complimentary french press coffee service that is delivered to you lounging in your super thick St. Regis robe makes a morning with one to many Astor Midnight cocktails the night before a little less painful.
Once, upon check-in, I asked the bellman who helped me with my luggage where I could get a cup of tea that afternoon. My doorbell rang and my butler brought me tea, biscotti and fruit. I didn’t even have to call and ask.
When you come back to your room at night to turn in, your ice bucket is filled for you. The wall mounted television is turned towards your bed and the lights are dimmed.
Ahhh. (Sigh of experiencing unaccustomed luxury.)
I remember one morning upon check out, we told the doorman who hailed a cab for us that this was our new home and we didn’t want to leave. He nodded and simply said “I know.”
I guess they get that alot!
For now, I am grateful to have this to look forward to again, and hope you will as well if you share my affinity for the St. Regis NYC. If you haven’t visited, do as I do and make a plan to go!
Prayers for all, stay strong and be well. Dream beautiful dreams of eating and drinking wonderful things in wonderful places very soon.
Still in the hunt,
Pattie Jo
