Enjoy a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony at the only Japanese-owned boutique hotel in NYC, the Kitano New York when you stay in its unique Tatami Suite. Baroque Travel has all the details
The Kitano Hotel New York is a tranquil oasis in the midst of Manhattan, ideally located on Park Avenue in the historic Murray Hill district. Here you can enjoy a taste of the traditional Japanese lifestyle in the midst of Manhattan, including delectable Kaiseki cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Hakubai, exquisitely designed Japanese-style guest rooms and suites with spectacular city views and every possible amenity.
The hotel, which opened in 1973, has been a best-kept secret, but has become increasingly popular because of its weekly Jazz evenings and superb displays of original artworks. A stay at this unique hotel is an experience in its own, from the moment you arrive and settle into your custom-designed hotel room or suite.
All of the suites offer spacious living areas as well as ergonomic workspaces for business travelers, but it’s the Tatami Suite which is the highlight. This one-bedroom luxury suite offers a choice of twin beds or a futon, all natural wooden flooring, shoji paper screens and Tatami mats. In addition to the authentic Japanese décor and sand-textured walls, the suite also features a Japanese Tea Ceremony room, where guests can enjoy a unique, intimate and traditional Japanese Tea Gathering Ceremony, something usually only experienced in Japan, not the US.
The artwork adorning the walls of this beautiful boutique hotel is a highlight of a stay here. Since the hotel opened, it has become known as a location for showcasing music, art and culture. As a result, there is a rotating repertoire of exquisite gallery artworks on display throughout the hotel’s lobby and mezzanine floors, plus permanent fixtures such as the bronze sculpture called ‘Dog’ by world-famous sculptor Fernando Botero, which stands at the base of the stairs leading to the Mezzanine floor. Themes depicted include various numerous New York landmarks, offering a taste of both US and Japanese culture in one exquisite setting.
Items on display have been provided by numerous prestigious establishments such as the Museum of Art and Design, the Morgan Library and the Lladro Gallery. Currently on display are pieces from the famous 18th Century Baccarat Collection.
Whilst enjoying traditional Kaiseki cuisine at the Kitano’s Michelin-starred Hakubai restaurant, guests are treated to views of a superb collection of artworks by famous Japanese contemporary painter, Tatsuya Ishiodori. Another highlight throughout the hotel are the artful Ikebana floral arrangements designed weekly by the renowned Ikenobo Ikebana Society.
You can’t stay at this unique hotel without visiting its Jazz club, Jazz at Kitano, where guests can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails as well as superb musical performances from Monday through Saturday evening. Dishes are contemporary American cuisine with Pan Asian influences and this intimate jazz lounge is legendary for offering the best in world-class jazz entertainment. The full bar menu includes rare malt whiskeys, classic cocktails, fine wines, champagne and Sake.