The 1 Hotel brand offers “understated luxury.” Staying at a 1 Hotel is like being wrapped in a warm blanket or sipping the most decadent cup of hot chocolate on a cold, rainy day. The sheer thought of staying at a 1 Hotel makes me smile. I’m happy to say the 1 Hotel Central Park didn’t disappoint. It was everything I’d come to love about the hotel brand, from the warm, welcoming smiles of the courteous bellman to the cozy feel of the hotel interiors. Where do I even begin when describing my visit? I’ll start by telling you the hotel’s location. It is on Sixth Avenue, a block from Central Park and other popular shopping and dining destinations.
Upon approaching the hotel, you may not immediately perceive it as ‘luxurious,’ but you would be pleasantly surprised to discover a subtler form of luxury that is not ostentatious or overly opulent. It is what I call ‘understated luxury’ because of the small details of the 1 Hotel that give it this appeal. Even before walking into the lobby, I could smell the special hotel scent exclusive to the 1 Hotel brand. It is the essence of the hotel for me because whenever I smell it, I know that I have arrived and can now settle in for a totally rejuvenating experience. I don’t think mere words can convey the joy I feel when thinking and speaking about the 1 Hotels. It is an eco-friendly hotel with a green-style living wall on the exterior and natural greenery, smoky scents, and woodsy smells on the interior. It evokes a sense of calm.
Upon entering the 1 Hotel Central Park, as always, I was greeted with an inviting welcome from everyone at the front desk. Despite what is happening around them, their team of experienced hospitality professionals will always make you feel as though you are the only one that matters at that moment. Chaos is sure to ensue anywhere, especially at a hotel. I’ve seen this on multiple occasions and noticed just how cool and calm the front desk agents remain in those moments. Their energy is infectious because it also sets the tone for the rest of your stay. They make it clear they are there to serve you in any way they can to ensure your stay is as pleasant as possible. It is, in the truest sense, an urban retreat.
The eco-friendly, sustainability theme continues within its stylish 229 rooms and suites. You’ll find modern furnishings, salvaged and reclaimed wood with industrial accents, which include a cement sink and a metal desk. The organic hemp mattresses are so comfortable that getting out of bed was a struggle every day. While the room’s color palettes are monochromatic, they have pops of green and blue hues throughout. I stayed in the City Lounge King, which suited me perfectly since it had a window box, which I loved sitting in while taking in the sights and sounds from the surrounding area. I also had a lovely view of Central Park from the window box. Some other notable room amenities include a flat-screen TV, filtered water taps, a Nespresso machine, soft cotton robes and slippers, a mini-bar, and Bamford Bath products.
While there are plenty of dining options in the area, nothing suited me better than enjoying the food offered all day from Jams Restaurant on the hotel’s ground floor. It is a light and airy space with wood accents, serving seasonal cuisine crafted by head chef Jonathan Waxman. On my first night at the hotel, I headed down to take my seat; unfortunately, I didn’t have much of an appetite, which made enjoying a meal a little challenging. However, I left it to the helpful server to recommend something based on the way I felt. I must say, he made the perfect recommendation, a deliciously smooth cauliflower soup and scallops. Unfortunately, I didn’t have room for more, or else I would have taken advantage of their dessert menu. The following morning, I woke up with an appetite and was ready to find out what lay ahead of me at Jams for breakfast. While I had a pretty basic breakfast, starting with a buttery croissant, followed by chicken sausage and potatoes, it was much more than I could have imagined. The three sausage links were some of the best I had ever eaten. I savored every bite. The potatoes were fresh-cut, crispy potatoes made just the way I like them. So, it’s fair to say I was very happy with my breakfast choice. I’m already making plans to visit Jams Restaurant at 1 Hotel Central Park the next time I’m in New York City, as it is now on my list of Favorite NYC Restaurants. Guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner at the hotel restaurant, Jams. 24-hour in-room dining is also available, and there is an area in the lobby area called the ‘farm stand’ where guests can help themselves with nuts, granola, and fresh fruit.
The other amenities include a 24-hour gym, which is small but certainly adequate for a good workout, a small business center, and meeting and lounge space. Although I didn’t need to use any of these, it is always nice to know they are available when and if I need them. Oh, how could I forget this piece of information for those who travel with their pets! The hotel does allow pets for free.
All in all, I would have to say that once again, I had a luxury experience at the 1 Hotel Central Park that left me feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world. All my needs were met by a team of expertly qualified professionals who care about the total guest experience. If there is anything you want or need, they are quick to make sure you get it. This is the type of service and attention worth splurging on!
