The Setai looks amazing at night next to the Empire Stand Building along 5th Avenue
The Setai Fifth Avenue was where I chose to stay on my recent trip to New York. I’ll admit I was a bit hesitant to check it out because I knew the property had recently undergone a change of management (the property will become a Langham on April 1st). But when I scored a room at a great rate for a New York City luxury property ($250 a night, including a $35 breakfast credit), I decided to give it The Setai a try.
The staff at the property were incredibly welcoming starting from the second I arrived. Jonathan, the doorman, noticed that I was a photographer. He suggested various camera angles to shoot the property and the nearby Empire State Building. It turns out all of his photo scouting tips were really good. I went out of my way to tip him for that excellent service.
My room was spacious and zen, designed with a modern, understated elegance. It is one of the largest hotel rooms I’ve had in New York, complete with a walk-in closet. The bathroom had side-by-side sinks a deep tub and a separate shower. Wifi is complementary and speedy. There was a flat screen television in the bedroom, which I never bothered to turn on as well as a television behind the mirror in the bathroom. I have to admit I didn’t use that television either.
Service at the property was prompt and accurate. Turn down service includes two chocolate chip cookies every night.
My room rate included a $35 dollar breakfast credit, which can be used either for room service or in the Al Fiori Restaurant on the 2nd floor of the property. The breakfast menu at Al Fiori was pretty uninspired but covered all the breakfast essentials including eggs benedict and a selection of juices.
The property also has The Bar of Fifth which is probably the best public space on the property, with live music every night. The French menu has good bar bites such as selection of frittes and a great selection of wine by the glass.
While the Setai lacked the strong, distinctive personality you get from some better known boutique hotel brands, it was a luxurious place to bunk for a few days. The staff was so nice, they also let me know the property will continue with this great service when they change names on April 1st. I had such a pleasant stay I will go out of my way to return here in the near future, whatever it might be called then.
The desk in the bedroom at The Setai. The room is thoughtfully designed with plenty of outlets. I was told I could have 5 items pressed complimentary upon arrival.
The walk-in closet was large enough that I could open up all my suitcases, a rare and luxurious amenity for New York City.
The tub was deep and filled quickly. The separate shower stall had both a rainshower and a hand held shower.
Side by side sinks in the bathroom. Behind the mirror was a television that I never turned on.
Lorenzo Villoresi bathroom amenities at The Setai.
The desk at the Setai had all the necessities for a modern traveler.
400 5th Ave (between 36th & 37th streets)
New York, NY 10018, United States
Email: info@setaififthavenue.com
| +1 212-695-4005 |