The Peninsula New York

Behind a century-old Beaux Arts facade right on the poshest stretch of Fifth Avenue lies the New York franchise of the phenomenal Hong Kong-based Peninsula Hotel. And if there’s anywhere in America that’s an appropriate spot for some mega-hospitality, Far East style, it’s this particular corner of midtown Manhattan, a stone’s throw from icons like Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall and Tiffany & Co.

Service is characteristically precise and efficient, whisking guests through the grand columned lobby and up to the spanking-new guest rooms, all contemporary elegance with Art Nouveau furnishings and a subtle Asian influence. Views are phenomenal—overlooking this stretch of Fifth Avenue one feels at the very center of the world—and the amenities are state-of-the-art, with high-tech entertainment systems, infinitely adjustable lighting, and deep soaking tubs with LCD televisions and bath-side control panels.

The Peninsula Spa and Health Club span three floors and some 30,000 square feet, with facilities to rival many a private athletic club. Particularly of note is the top-floor pool, offering almost unparalleled views of the midtown area.

We say almost unparalleled because it’s hard to beat the Pen-Top Bar. New York hotel bar cocktails are priced, it seems, for comic shock value, but these ones are worth every penny, accompanied as they are by some of the most stunning vistas in Manhattan. Downstairs enjoy dinner at Fives, chef Gordon Maybury’s new venue, or a more sedate cocktail—or British-style afternoon tea (via Hong Kong, of course)—in the library atmosphere of the Gotham Bar & Lounge.