ANANTARA NEW YORK PALACE EXUDES OLD-WORLD GLAMOUR IN BUDAPEST
Nestled on the Pest side of the Danube, amidst the bustling heart of Hungary’s capital, lies a stunning oasis of luxury and history—Anantara New York Palace. This majestic hotel, which originally opened in 1894 as the European headquarters of the New York Life Insurance Company, is a dazzling blend of old-world elegance and modern opulence
Anantara New York Palace is one of Budapest’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you are here to immerse yourself in the hotel’s storied past or to indulge in its contemporary comforts, Anantara New York Palace offers an unforgettable experience that transports you to another era.
The Historical Grandeur of Anantara New York Palace
The story of Anantara New York Palace begins in the late 19th century, during an era when Budapest was one of Europe’s most vibrant and forward-thinking cities. The grand building was designed by Alajos Hauszmann, a renowned Austro-Hungarian architect whose eclectic vision blended Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau styles. This fusion of architectural influences gave birth to a truly unique structure, which quickly became a symbol of the city’s cultural and economic rise.
Upon its completion, the building served as the headquarters for the New York Life Insurance Company, a prestigious financial institution. The lower floors housed the company’s offices, while the upper levels provided luxurious living spaces for the firm’s employees. During the tumultuous years of World War I and World War II, the building fell into disrepair, and by the 1950s, it was repurposed as a sports shop and tourism office. It remained largely forgotten until the 1990s, when it underwent a significant restoration before reopening as a luxury hotel in 2006.
In 2020, the hotel joined the prestigious Anantara Hotels & Resorts and it became Anantara New York Palace, further elevating its status as one of the city’s premier destinations for travelers seeking a blend of history, luxury, and impeccable service.
A Regal Retreat at Anantara New York Palace: Rooms and Suites
Anantara New York Palace boasts 185 rooms and suites spread across six floors, each one designed to offer a perfect blend of comfort, style, and grandeur. The hotel’s eclectic interior design is a nod to its Belle Époque roots, with calming color schemes, bold lines, and ample natural light. Each room is adorned with stunning Belle Époque chandeliers, adding a touch of vintage glamour while offering all the modern luxuries you would expect from a five-star hotel.
Guests can choose from a range of accommodations, from chic city-view rooms to expansive suites fit for royalty. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, with elegant furnishings, luxurious linens, and contemporary amenities designed to ensure a peaceful and restful stay. Whether you’re in town for a romantic getaway, a business trip, or a family holiday, the rooms at Anantara New York Palace provide an ideal sanctuary to relax and recharge.
Culinary Delights Fit for Royalty
No visit to Anantara New York Palace would be complete without indulging in the culinary delights that await you within the hotel’s prestigious restaurants and bars. From the moment you step into the hotel, you are greeted with the aromas of freshly brewed coffee, exquisite pastries, and expertly crafted cocktails.
New York Café: The Most Beautiful Café in the World
Arguably the most famous spot in the hotel, the New York Café is not just a café—it is an institution. Known as “the most beautiful café in the world,” it has been a gathering place for Budapest’s intellectuals, writers, and artists since its opening in 1894. The café’s ornate Belle Époque décor features towering marble columns, hand-painted silk panels, and a magnificent frescoed ceiling, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and elegance that transports guests back to the golden age of European café society.
Here, guests can enjoy a variety of local and international dishes, from a traditional Hungarian breakfast to gourmet international fare. The café is also renowned for its afternoon tea, where you can savor an assortment of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and fine teas while being serenaded by live music. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning coffee or an evening cocktail, New York Café’s timeless charm makes it a must-visit destination.
- Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 am – 12:00 am
- Cuisine: Hungarian and international
White Salon: A Modern Twist on a Classic Brasserie
The White Salon is another dining gem at Anantara New York Palace, offering a refined and modern take on the classic European brasserie. The menu, curated by acclaimed chefs András Wolf and Zoltán Szűcs, features a fusion of locally sourced ingredients and international flavors. The chic, contemporary setting, with its elegant white décor and intimate atmosphere, is perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
- Opening hours: Daily, 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm
- Cuisine: International brasserie
The Poet Bar: Sip Cocktails in a Literary Setting
For those in search of a quieter, more intimate setting, The Poet Bar offers a cozy retreat with a rich literary history. Once a meeting place for Budapest’s prominent writers and journalists, the bar is an ideal spot for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails while reflecting on the city’s cultural heritage. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with oak and satin accents that create a sense of sophistication and comfort.
- Opening hours: Daily, 6:00 pm – 1:00 am
The Atrium: Chic Afternoon Tea and Light Bites
In the hotel’s grand entrance hall, The Atrium offers a glamorous setting for guests to enjoy a variety of Hungarian dishes, cocktails, and light bites. The space is perfect for a casual meal or a chic afternoon tea, where you can relax and unwind while taking in the views of the hotel’s stunning architecture.
- Opening hours: Daily, 11:00 am – 10:30 pm
Anantara Spa: A Sanctuary of Wellness
In a city renowned for its thermal baths, Anantara Spa offers an unparalleled wellness experience, drawing inspiration from Hungary’s rich mineral water traditions. The spa’s serene environment, featuring a relaxation pool and state-of-the-art facilities, provides the perfect setting for rejuvenation and relaxation.
With five massage rooms, a couples’ treatment room, a sauna, and a tea lounge, guests can indulge in a variety of therapeutic, anti-aging, and cosmetic treatments designed to promote holistic balance. The spa also offers treatments using locally sourced ingredients, further connecting guests with the city’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Explore Budapest in Style
Beyond the hotel’s luxurious offerings, Anantara New York Palace provides an array of exclusive experiences designed to help guests explore the beauty and history of Budapest in style.
Budapest by VW Van
For a truly unique way to see the city, take a vintage convertible VW Samba for a spin. With your chauffeur as your guide, you’ll be whisked away on a personalized tour of Budapest’s most stunning sights, from the iconic Parliament Building to the winding streets of the Castle District.
Danube Romance
No trip to Budapest is complete without a cruise along the Danube River. Anantara New York Palace offers an unforgettable boat tour, allowing guests to take in the magnificent views of the Royal Castle, Gellért Hill, and other landmarks as the city’s stunning skyline unfolds before you.
Gastronomic Walking Tour
For food lovers, Anantara New York Palace‘s gastronomic walking tour offers an immersive experience into Budapest’s rich culinary heritage. Led by a local expert, you’ll discover hidden gems and sample the city’s best delicacies, from traditional Hungarian stews to decadent pastries.
Mixology Masterclass
For cocktail enthusiasts, Anantara New York Palace offers a fascinating mixology masterclass, where you’ll learn the art of crafting signature cocktails from expert bartenders while uncovering the secrets behind some of the world’s most iconic drinks.
A Timeless Experience Awaits
From its unparalleled historical significance to its modern-day luxury offerings, Anantara New York Palace is much more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination in itself. Whether you are visiting Budapest for the first time or returning to discover the city from a new perspective, this iconic hotel provides the perfect base for your journey. With its stunning blend of history, culture, and modern elegance, Anantara New York Palace truly epitomizes the glamour and grandeur of old-world Budapest, making it the ideal place to experience the best of the city.
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