When I initially arrived at The Sofitel New York, I was not sure what to expect. My experience with the brand was limited, having stayed at two other Sofitel properties, one in the United States and another abroad, both different but sharing similar stylistic qualities. However, I was altogether more than pleased with my one-night stay for a variety of reasons.

The Sofitel New York offers a wonderful location off Fifth Avenue, perfect if you desire proximity to luxury shopping, Broadway theaters and Times Square. Currently celebrating its 18th birthday, the new-build property offers nearly 400 guestrooms, with 52 suites, including four spacious terrace suites.

As you step into the lobby, you enjoy a reception similar to what one might find in a European boutique hotel — which I assume is what the brand aims for. Guests immediately feel removed from the hubbub of the city, enveloped within an elegant and welcoming space with abundant seating and rotating artwork. During my stay, the lobby was home to a beautiful exhibit of Broadway posters by famed artist Frank “Fraver” Verlizzo, as I was visiting right after Tony season. However, an upcoming exhibit displays the timeless covers of France-Amérique, a publication with which the property shares a unique bond, as one of the culinary staff is a frequent columnist for the publication.

After I checked in at the front desk, slightly hidden away from the main lobby, I retired to my guestroom. The classic, superior and luxury guestrooms do not differ hugely in space and amenities, but all provide more than enough room considering the city you’re in. With a king bed, plenty of storage, a seating area and floor-length mirrors, I found my guestroom was anything but cramped. The marble-covered bathroom was equally spacious, with a separate soaking tub and rain shower, as well as imported French bath amenities.

I did have the chance to tour the terrace suites and found them highly attractive. The terraces are lovely, outfitted with beige-striped seating and some simple shrubbery that doesn’t detract from the magnificent views, including views of the Empire State Building (which you’ll see throughout the hotel). During my stay, one of the terrace suites was all dressed up in a Broadway theme as part of the hotel’s many Tony-inspired offerings, with memorabilia and other special items scattered throughout the decor, including a custom-made coffee table featuring Tony signage. The themed suite was the first of its kind.

The on-site dining option is the Gaby Brasserie Française, a brasserie and bar serving French- and American-inspired cuisine. Gaby Bar has an impressive wine and Champagne menu, plus a good balance of classic and unique cocktails.

In keeping with the hotel’s French heritage, the Sofitel New York hosts a Wine Days event, which occurs this upcoming late September through late October. A great fit for a girls’ trip or couple’s retreat, guests enjoy unique wine-themed events, such as inventive pairings.

During your stay, you can be assured you’re traveling responsibly, as the Sofitel New York and Sofitel brand participate in various sustainability initiatives. Interestingly, I learned the New York property in particular employs an ORCA, a green machine that “digests” up to 2,400 pounds of food waste each day, transforming it into environmentally safe water. Additionally, a certain amount of funds from each stay goes to the Plant for the Planet program.

For a luxury stay in the heart of Manhattan, the Sofitel New York delivers on every front.

The Sofitel New York

45 W. 44th St.
New York City, NY 10036
tel 212 354 8844