The iconic Four Seasons Hotel in New York City has finally reopened its doors after being closed for four years. The Garden restaurant, known for its 20-foot-tall acacia trees and 86 seats, now has a new executive chef, Maria Tampakis. Tampakis, who has previously worked with notable chefs like Heston Blumenthal and Gordon Ramsay, plans to bring a fresh twist to classic dishes, combining nostalgia with innovation.
The revamped menu at the Garden includes dishes like foie gras parfait in the shape of an apple, lobster thermidor, smoked fish platters with caviar, and Beef Wellington served with truffles and truffle cream. The cuisine will be influenced by northern Italian flavors, with dishes such as panettone French toast and agnolotti stuffed with short ribs. Tampakis plans to keep some perennial favorites like lemon ricotta pancakes while introducing new specialties to delight guests.
The Ty Bar, named after the hotel’s owner Ty Warner, has also undergone changes with a new menu featuring craft cocktails inspired by different eras in New York City’s history. The bar will offer luxe bites to complement the drinks, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for guests to enjoy. Ty Bar will maintain its cozy ambiance while providing guests with a new and elevated experience.
Despite the updates to the Garden and Ty Bar, Tampakis emphasizes that the hotel’s essence remains unchanged. The emphasis is on preserving the classic charm of the property while enhancing the overall experience for guests. Most of the front-of-house staff and a significant portion of the kitchen staff have continued on the team, creating a blend of familiarity and new energy.
The Four Seasons Hotel has downsized its room offerings, focusing on high-quality guest experiences in its 219 hotel rooms and long-term rental units. The hotel is poised to regain its status as one of the city’s most exclusive and expensive properties with room rates starting at $2,450, and the Ty Warner suite costing an astounding $80,000 per night. Despite the luxury price point, the hotel aims to provide guests with a truly exceptional and memorable stay in the heart of New York City.
Overall, the Four Seasons Hotel has retained its timeless appeal while introducing fresh perspectives and innovations to its dining and hospitality offerings. With Chef Maria Tampakis at the helm, guests can expect a fusion of classic elegance and modern creativity in both the Garden restaurant and the Ty Bar. The hotel’s commitment to providing a premier luxury experience is evident in its upgraded amenities, exceptional staff, and the attention to detail that ensures a memorable stay for every guest.