We almost don’t want to write about this gem, but alas, we’re going to spread the love. Whether you need a place to work for the day, or you’re in a pinch for last-minute drinks, The Lowell feels like a secret garden and oasis in the city. It’s grown up yet easy, elegant, and pretty yet effortless. And it’s the spot for your next tête-à-tête.
Atmosphere
There are some places that embody darned pretty, and that’s the case with The Lowell Hotel in NYC. You can also add elegance, which oozes from every corner of this intimate spot on the Upper East Side. The Lowell is timeless; it’s been impeccably updated but what it looked like in 1960 is exactly what it looks like today. There’s maybe only one other spot – La Grenouille – that nails old-school NYC in the same way. From the moment you walk into the lobby, The Lowell is one of the landmarks that is so classically New York, it hurts. There’s a reason why it’s been open since 1927 and is still one of the most luxurious boutique hotels in the city.
The Lowell has been around so long that it’s one of those spots that you may forget about until you drop by. Then you wonder why you don’t go more often. The crowd, like the hotel, is elegant. The riff-raff of the Avra bar down the street, while fun, is nowhere to be seen. It’s actually refreshing to be in a spot that’s all class. When you want to have an intimate drink in a quintessential upper-crust NYC scene, The Lowell is your go-to place.
Food + Beverage
During the day, they keep it pretty simple at The Lowell. The Club Room is technically only open to hotel guests until it opens to the public at 4:30 pm. The main spot that is open during the week is Jacques Bar, which serves light, albeit pretty expensive bites. It’s worth it, especially for the crab cake which is a decadent few bites that’s ample for a light meal. While the menu is simple – chicken Caesar salad, beef tartare with frites, a burger, and other standard items, it’s all elegant. They’re not getting a Michelin star for Bar Jacques but when your drinks turn into a bite to supplement, it all hits the spot.
It’s been a while since I’ve dined at Majorelle, so this isn’t a review of the finer dining restaurant. It’s not that I don’t spend $250/person for dinner out nowadays, but at the entry level of $145/prix fixe, it’s not an inexpensive proposition. When I do make it for dinner there, we’ll do a separate review. However, I mention it now as it’s one of the most pretty spots to dine. It’s a shame it’s not open for lunch, but they are currently running a Dior Lily of the Valley tea. This gives you a chance to dine at Majorelle during the day from Wednesday to Sunday.
Service
The service at The Lowell is old-school formal. Everyone is nice enough to you, though I probably haven’t crossed the threshold where they have yet welcomed me into the fold. It’s not like The Regency where everyone knows your name within 2 visits or Polo Bar where when you’re in, you’re family. Service is polished, informed, and consistent.
Overall: 7.7/10
One of the prettiest places for elegant drinks and light bites, along with the afternoon team in NYC.
Other Articles You’ll Like:
The Best Afternoon Teas in the World
The Most Expensive Afternoon Tea
Top Family Teas in NYC
FAQs
Q: Where is The Lowell located?
A: The Lowell is located at 28 E 63rd St, New York, NY 10065 on the Upper East Side.
Q: What are the hours of operation of the restaurant and bars at The Lowell?
A: There are several bars and restaurants at The Lowell.
Majorelle is open Monday–Saturday: 5:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Jacques Bar is open Monday–Saturday: 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm; Sunday: 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Club Room is open Monday–Saturday: 4:30 pm – 11:00 pm; Sunday: 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm
The Pembroke Room is only open for in-house guests
Breakfast is served daily 7:00 am – 11:00 am
Q: What type of food does The Lowell serve?
A: Majorelle serves French-inspired cuisine that leans towards more fine dining. Bar Jacques serves lunch, drinks, and light bites, including a crab cake that is tops. Currently, Majorelle has a Dior-inspired afternoon tea from Wednesday to Sunday. On Wednesday to Saturday, the tea is served from 12 – 4:30 pm and Sunday from 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
