The St. Regis New York Celebrates 120 Years

The St. Regis New York Celebrates 120 Years with Stunning Renovation

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 23, 2024

The St. Regis New York, one of Manhattan’s most iconic hotels, is celebrating its 120th anniversary with the unveiling of a dramatic renovation. This milestone marks a new era of glamour and sophistication for the hotel, which has been a symbol of luxury since its founding in 1904. The extensive redesign, led by the renowned Champalimaud Design firm, has refreshed key public spaces, including the historic lobby, the legendary King Cole Bar, and two new dining outlets. The renovations blend the hotel’s rich Beaux-Arts architectural heritage with modern design elements, creating a fresh, contemporary aesthetic that appeals to today’s global travelers.

“We are thrilled to debut the exquisite renovation of our first St. Regis hotel and global flagship,” said Jenni Benzaquen, Senior Vice President of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, and Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts. “This anniversary is a significant milestone, reflecting our enduring legacy of luxury, personalized service, and contemporary elegance that has captivated guests around the world. As we honor our rich heritage, we remain deeply attuned to the desires of both our loyal guests and the next generation of luxury travelers, ensuring that every experience we offer is as extraordinary and bespoke as it is timeless.”

Founded by John Jacob Astor IV, The St. Regis New York quickly became the epicenter of Manhattan’s social life, attracting high society and elite figures. Astor’s vision was to create a hotel that rivaled the finest establishments in Europe, where his close friends and family could enjoy the opulence of a private residence. The hotel soon became the home of "Caroline's 400," an elite social circle named after Astor’s mother, Caroline Astor. Over the decades, The St. Regis has been a gathering place for some of the world’s most glamorous and creative personalities, including Salvador Dalí and Marilyn Monroe. It has also been the birthplace of cultural moments, such as the invention of the Bloody Mary cocktail and iconic jazz performances on the hotel’s rooftop.

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The recent renovations are a testament to the hotel’s ongoing commitment to luxury and innovation. The redesigned lobby now features restored original windows, dating back to the early 1900s, as well as a stunning stained-glass window inspired by the hotel’s original Tiffany design. The reception area has been transformed with a new color scheme, featuring light, neutral tones accented by bold pops of red, inspired by Caroline Astor’s favorite flower, the American Beauty Rose. The expanded lobby now includes a welcoming area with custom-designed wall coverings and luxurious furnishings, blending old-world charm with modern sophistication.

The renovation also introduces two new dining venues. The Drawing Room, located just off the lobby, offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience, with a color palette that echoes the vibrant tones of the King Cole Bar’s famous mural. Sumptuous velvet couches and plush armchairs invite guests to linger, while a collection of books from the original Astor Library adds a touch of history. La Maisonette, another new addition, offers breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea in a bright, airy space inspired by French design and the hotel’s original 1910s breakfast room. The King Cole Bar itself has been refreshed with new dark wood paneling and a deep green ceiling, while retaining the iconic Maxfield Parrish mural that has long been the bar’s centerpiece.

“The St. Regis New York has stood as a beacon for generations of global travelers looking to be in the center of Manhattan and surround themselves in the timeless allure that has defined the Fifth Avenue icon since its founding,” said General Manager Octavia Marginean-Tahiroglu. “This renovation is a milestone moment for the cherished New York City icon as we present our masterfully redesigned public spaces in our 120th anniversary year.”

The design team at Champalimaud Design has brought new energy to the historic hotel, preserving its legacy while introducing contemporary touches. The space’s original chandeliers and crown moldings have been retained, while modern furnishings, rich textures, and a sophisticated color palette bring the hotel firmly into the 21st century. The result is an urban haven that pays homage to the hotel’s glamorous past while embracing the needs and desires of today’s luxury traveler.

Guests of The St. Regis New York can now enjoy the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern comfort, with the hotel’s updated public spaces offering a luxurious retreat in the heart of Manhattan.

TOKYO SKYTREE Brings Cherry Blossom Season to New Heights with “THE Sakura SKYTREE”

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

As Japan gears up for its much-awaited cherry blossom season, Tobu Tower Skytree Co., Ltd. has announced a special spring programme titled “THE Sakura SKYTREE – Going to Meet the Cherry Blossoms Above the Clouds” at TOKYO SKYTREE. The limited-period experience will run from February 26 to April 14, 2026, offering visitors a fresh way to enjoy sakura from 350 metres above ground.

Designed as an alternative to traditional park hanami, the event brings cherry blossom viewing into an urban, elevated setting. Located on the Tembo Deck at Floors 350 and 340, the experience blends sakura-inspired installations with wide, uninterrupted views of Tokyo, allowing visitors to enjoy spring scenery from above the city skyline.

Built around the theme “Sky × Sakura,” the Tembo Deck will be transformed with cherry blossom décor and Japanese-style photo installations. The setting reflects the fleeting beauty of sakura while creating striking visual moments for visitors. With the Tokyo skyline as a backdrop, the space offers a modern interpretation of spring that combines tradition with a sense of scale and spectacle.

For evening visitors, a key attraction will be the seasonal showcase at the SKYTREE ROUND THEATER® on Floor 350. The observatory’s large windows will turn into a panoramic screen for a three-minute visual presentation capturing the delicate and short-lived nature of cherry blossoms. Using 24 projectors and surround sound from 13 speakers, the experience adds a cinematic layer to hanami, bringing together culture, technology, and storytelling.

Adding to the seasonal feel, the SKYTREE CAFE on Floor 350 will launch a limited-edition cherry blossom-themed menu. The offerings will include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with spring-inspired sweets. Highlights include donuts in “Sakura Mochi” and “Sakura Sky Vanilla” flavours, made as 100% plant-based, vegan, and gluten-free options. The menu is designed to be visually appealing and easy to share, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

The spring theme will also extend to the W1SH RIBBON monument on the Tembo Deck, where limited-edition pink ribbons will be available during the event period. Visitors can tie their wishes onto the softly lit pink installation, reflecting themes of renewal and fresh beginnings associated with the season. The monument lighting will also shift to pink to match the overall décor.

On selected evenings, TOKYO SKYTREE itself will light up in special spring illumination called “Sakura SKY (Sakura-Sora).” Inspired by cherry blossoms set against a spring sky, gentle pink beams will represent petals floating in the wind, turning the tower into a seasonal highlight visible across the city.

With immersive décor, visual storytelling, seasonal food, and special lighting, “THE Sakura SKYTREE” positions TOKYO SKYTREE as a standout attraction during spring. By presenting the cherry blossom season from 350 metres above ground, the event offers visitors an experience that feels modern, memorable, and uniquely Tokyo.

Chef Bobby Appointed Sous Chef at TIYA in San Francisco

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 25, 2026

TIYA, a Michelin Guide-recognized restaurant, has announced the appointment of Chef Bobby as its new Sous Chef. The move underlines the restaurant’s continued focus on quality, innovation, and refined modern Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

In his new role, Chef Bobby will oversee day-to-day kitchen operations at TIYA. His responsibilities include ensuring smooth service, refined plating presentation, well-balanced flavours, and consistent portion control. Through his leadership, the restaurant aims to further strengthen its position as a premium modern Indian dining destination known for creativity, precision, and memorable guest experiences.

Before joining TIYA, Chef Bobby worked as Sous Chef at Madras Group Inc., located at 1177 W El Camino Real, Sunnyvale. There, he supported the Executive Chef in running high-performing kitchen operations. His role included supervising and training culinary teams, maintaining HACCP and ServSafe food safety standards, handling inventory and supplier coordination, and contributing to cost control and menu innovation. His involvement in recipe development and tasting menu execution played a key role in maintaining high dining standards.

Earlier in his career, Chef Bobby gained valuable experience as a Demi Chef de Partie at The Quorum, Two Horizon Center, Golf Course Road, and as a Commi at Hotel Crowne Plaza Mayur Vihar. He began his professional journey at Aamod Resorts, Kandaghat, District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, where he built a strong foundation in kitchen operations and hospitality discipline.

Speaking on his appointment, Chef Bobby said, “Joining TIYA, a Michelin Guide restaurant, as Sous Chef is an exciting milestone in my culinary journey. The brand’s vision of redefining modern Indian cuisine resonates deeply with my passion for innovation and excellence. I look forward to contributing to TIYA’s continued growth and delivering memorable dining experiences to our guests.”

With experience across well-known hospitality brands in both India and the United States, Chef Bobby’s appointment marks a meaningful step forward for TIYA as it continues to raise the bar for modern Indian fine dining in San Francisco.

Unwind in the Sacred Spirit of Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on February 24, 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Novotel Cairo Airport welcomes guests to experience the season in an atmosphere defined by serenity, reflection, and heartfelt hospitality. Designed for both Cairo residents seeking a peaceful retreat within the city and travellers exploring Egypt’s capital, the hotel offers a setting where the spirit of togetherness takes centre stage.

Ramadan at Novotel Cairo Airport focuses on creating meaningful moments. Guests can slow down, reconnect, and embrace the traditions of the holy month while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing stay. The property’s dining venues present thoughtfully curated Iftar and Sohour experiences, blending traditional Ramadan flavours with contemporary touches. Each meal is crafted to bring families, friends, couples, and colleagues together around the table in celebration.

For corporate guests, the hotel provides fully equipped banquet rooms and dedicated facilities suited for Iftars, Sohour gatherings, and Ramadan celebrations. The spaces are designed to encourage connection and appreciation, offering organisations a welcoming environment to host teams and partners during the blessed month.

A highlight of the season is the exclusive Ramadan dessert display, available throughout the day. Guests can indulge in a carefully selected assortment of oriental pastries, featuring both classic favourites and delicately crafted treats that reflect the flavours of Ramadan. Whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to share, the sweet offerings add a festive touch to the experience.

More than a destination to stay or dine, Novotel Cairo Airport positions itself as a place where Cairo’s Ramadan evenings come alive with warmth and community spirit. It is a space to unwind after a long day of fasting, reflect on the blessings of the season, and create lasting memories.

Part of the global Accor portfolio, Novotel operates over 590 hotels across more than 65 countries and participates in the ALL – Accor Live Limitless lifestyle loyalty programme, offering members access to rewards and exclusive experiences worldwide.

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