Tucked away on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, The Surrey is a sanctuary of calm amid the city’s constant rhythm. From its storied history to its curated art, refined interiors, and elegant dining, the hotel offers a rare sense of intimacy and sophistication. Every corner reflects a careful balance of heritage and modernity, creating a space where guests can pause, soak in the culture, and experience New York at its most graceful and artful.
١. History of The Surrey
Built in 1926, The Surrey began its life as a refined residential hotel, quickly earning a reputation for discretion, sophistication, and an understated glamour that attracted New York’s most notable figures. From Hollywood stars like Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert to political icons such as John F. Kennedy, the hotel became a haven for those seeking privacy without sacrificing style. Its upper-floor apartments offered sweeping city views, while the public spaces reflected the elegance and charm of Manhattan in the roaring twenties, complete with Art Deco touches and finely crafted details.
Over the decades, The Surrey maintained its status as a landmark of understated luxury, quietly hosting artists, diplomats, and tastemakers, all drawn to its intimate scale and refined ambience. In 2024, under the stewardship of Corinthia Hotels, the property underwent a sensitive restoration that honours its storied past while introducing contemporary comforts. The result is a hotel that bridges eras — preserving its historic character while infusing it with modern sophistication, creating a space that feels both timeless and welcoming for today’s discerning traveller.
٢. The Surrey’s Artistic Expression
Art and design flow seamlessly through the hotel, reflecting the creative energy of New York. Interiors by Martin Brudnizki layer art decor details with plush textures, muted pastels, and carefully curated contemporary artworks. Each corner feels personal yet sophisticated, creating an atmosphere where heritage meets modern expression.
The hotel’s permanent collection, along with rotating exhibitions, positions The Surrey as a cultural hub, complemented by its proximity to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The New York Public Library, the Guggenheim, and Madison Avenue’s high-end galleries.
٣. Culinary Experiences
Culinary experiences at The Surrey are equally refined. Casa Tua, the Italian-Mediterranean restaurant and members’ club, balances elegance with warmth. Guests can enjoy leisurely breakfasts, light lunches, or intimate dinners, with dishes crafted from high-quality ingredients — from seared octopus to mushroom tagliatelle — all served in an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. The hotel’s bar and rooftop terrace offer evenings of quiet indulgence, with cocktails and city views that transform each moment into a memorable experience.
٤. Best Time to Visit
Surrey is a destination that shines year-round, yet spring and fall are especially enchanting. Central Park’s foliage frames the hotel in seasonal colour, while the spa, with its salt wall, steam rooms, and serene outdoor spaces, offers a tranquil retreat from the city below. Timing a visit to coincide with the hotel’s curated art exhibitions or cultural events adds another layer to the experience, connecting guests more deeply with New York’s artistic pulse.
A stay at The Surrey is more than a night in Manhattan – it is a moment to pause, to soak in the elegance, art, and quiet sophistication that define one of the city’s most iconic hotels. Here, every detail, from design to dining, invites reflection, offering a rare blend of heritage, culture, and contemporary luxury.
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