After moving to Nashville seven years ago from New York City, we still yearn to get back to the concrete jungle a few times a year. With dozens of direct flights from here to NY, we know we are not alone in our wanderlust. The biggest question is where does one stay? It is so easy to get coerced into booking a trendy new hotel. The downside of these modern accommodations is that their minimal design typically suggests minimal character.
On our most recent visit to New York in July, we were craving a true New York experience. We were on the hunt for a hotel with some historical significance and fortunately came across The Algonquin Hotel. Originally built in 1902 and known for hosting some of the most notable names in the literary and cultural circles, we were sure this would be the hotel with storied walls that we were looking for.
Walking up to the entrance on 44th Street between 5th and 6th Ave, the building beamed with old world elegance and excitement. The bellhops swung open the doors in unison (reminiscent of a Wes Anderson scene) donning classic uniforms and caps. We marveled at the lobby’s grandeur and Greek-style columns with decorative moldings. As our gaze traveled back down, we had our first celebrity sighting. Hamlet, the hotel cat. The tradition of the hotel cat has been carried on for 101 years. Just one more reason why this hotel brings more to the table.
Speaking of “the table,” The Algonquin is most well-known for hosting The Round Table, a daily lunchtime gathering of some of the city’s most famous writers and thinkers. Dorothy Parker, Harold Ross and Robert Sherwood were just a few of the familiar faces. This group was so elite and widely recognized that even former President John F. Kennedy aspired to be a member when he was a child. World renowned scripts, scores and sonnets were created inside this iconic hotel, including the music to My Fair Lady. On Saturday nights the members of the Round Table would meet to play poker. After Harold Ross won a big hand, he took the winnings and created The New Yorker.
Nowadays, guests and locals alike enjoy the ambiance of the Blue Bar, which was reopened at the end of Prohibition. The name was coined after American actor, John Barrymore as he claimed one looks more attractive under such lighting. As we bellied up to the bar with delicious martinis, we reveled in all the artwork surrounding us depicting memorable moments from this exact place.
Needless to say, our stay was marvelous. The spirit of this landmark is truly palpable, and the staff is as lovely and vibrant as you would hope. The Algonquin was recently placed on the Historic Hotels of America list, forever preserving its legacy. If you are looking for a meaningful and nostalgic experience next time you’re in New York City, consider a stay at the fabled Algonquin Hotel.
