Daily Pampering: Champagne brunch at Arabelle Restaurant at the Hôtel Plaza Athénée, New York

by Annie Scott on


Everyone likes a champagne brunch, but it’s infinitely better when you’ve got champagne surroundings, as well.

Arabelle Restaurant (above) at Hôtel Plaza Athénée in NYC is offering a Sunday brunch you’re likely to treasure well into the following week. The brunch, described as “lavishly presented,” features a buffet with Steamed Lobster, Chilled Gulf Shrimp, Smoked Salmon, and Charcuterie, which you enjoy while you wait for your entrée of Plaza Athénée Eggs Benedict, Roasted Tomato and Asparagus Omelet, Vanilla Brioche French Toast with Fresh Berries, Blueberry Pancakes With Chantilly Cream and Warm Maple Syrup or the Chef’s daily special. A dessert table with pastries, tartlettes, cakes, fruit and, of course, coffee and tea, awaits you at your leisure.

This indulgent, Upper East Side Sunday Champagne Brunch is $69.00 per person and includes a glass of house champagne. The brunch is only served from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, so be sure to call ahead (800-447-8800) for reservations.

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Harlem welcomes Aloft; first new hotel in more 40 years

by Melanie Nayer on

Starwood’s budget brand Aloft will make its New York debut this summer, opening up a stylish hotel in Harlem. The Aloft Harlem will be the first Aloft property in New York City and the first hotel to open in Harlem in more than 40 years.

Aloft was created to offer guests an urban-inspired hotel at a budget price. The Aloft hotels feature stylish guest rooms, up-to-date technology and public spaces for guests to mingle and make plans. Currently, there are more than 40 Aloft hotels open around the world since the brand’s launch in June 2008, but New York was a market the hotel was eager to tap.

The 124-room Aloft Harlem will open in August 2010 with easy access to Columbia University some of Harlem’s most frequented tourist attractions, including the legendary Apollo Theater to the acclaimed Studio Museum. The Aloft Harlem hotel is steps away from the 125th Street subway station, which means guests can be in downtown Manhattan within minutes.

To celebrate the pending opening, Aloft held a job fair at the Apollo Theater. Aloft partnered with recruitment firm NYC Business Solutions to draw local candidates to mix and mingle with senior managers, participate in contests, giveaways, and interview sessions.

In addition to the Harlem hotel, Aloft will also open a second New York property in Brooklyn. Set to welcome guests in October 2010, the Aloft Brooklyn is located just next to Flatbush Avenue and Fulton Mall, and offer 176 loft-like guest rooms, as well as a roof terrace bar.

Naked Cowboy versus Naked Cowgirl

by Jason Heflin on

The Naked Cowboy, a Times Square icon, has filed a cease-and-desist order against a fellow public performer for infringing on his trademark. The Naked Cowgirl, a former stripper, has been performing in the cowboy’s territory lately and isn’t budging. Both performers wear limited clothing, a cowboy hat, and play a guitar for tourists visiting Times Square.

The Naked Cowboy, Robert Burck, is reportedly seeking $150,000 from the Cowgirl and has asked that she sign a franchise agreement which would require her to pay $500 each month to use the name and likeness. When asked how she felt about the situation, she replied, “Why doesn’t he sue the people that make the Naked drink.” There has been no comment yet from the Naked Juice camp.

Burck, who has been performing in Times Square for years, last made headlines when he decided to run for mayor against Michael Bloomberg.

The Plaza hotel launches first Virtual Concierge app on iPads

by Melanie Nayer on

The iPad is certainly making its way around the hotel circuit. Next on the saucy gadget’s list: The Plaza, one of New York City’s top luxury hotels. And when the iPad enters the Plaza, the iPad does it in style.

The Plaza’s iPads will feature the first virtual concierge application available on the iPad, thanks to software from Intelity’s Interactive Customer Solution programs. Guests will be able to use the in-room iPads to order room service, make restaurant reservations, communicate with the concierge, request wake-up calls, read New York City destination guides, order room service, make a spa appointment, and even check airline schedules and print boarding passes.

Each of The Plaza’s iPads will feature a multimedia video welcome and will also be pre-loaded with applications including newspapers and magazines.

“For over 100 years, The Plaza has set the standard for luxury and since opening our doors, guests at our hotel experienced many firsts in travel. Today, luxury is being redefined to not only include actual products but how something enhances an experience or fulfills a need,” said Shane Krige, general manager of The Plaza, in a statement. “Guests can now enjoy in-demand, innovative technology and access to our five-star offerings at their convenience – a true luxury for many.”

The iPads featuring the new ICE Virtual Concierge technology will be available in all of The Plaza’s guest rooms and suites in September 2010.

Want more? Click here for more iPad news.

Thirsty? Drink up at one of these top 10 roofdeck bars

by Gadling Staff on

It’s been a long day, it’s hot outside, and you need a cold beverage – stat! Maybe you’re celebrating a good friend’s promotion, or commiserating over a failed board meeting. Whatever the reason, rooftop bars were created for a reason – to relax, rejoice and re-hydrate while taking in some of the best views. Here are the top 10 roofdeck bars not to be missed:

1. Sky Terrace, on the Hudson Hotel – New York, NY

The Sky Terrace is an outdoor bar featuring some of the most amazing views New York and the Hudson River. Grab a chair or hang in an hammock. Caveat: the rooftop is only accessible if you are staying in the hotel or know someone who is.

2. 230 Fifth Rooftop Garden – New York, NY

Another from the New York, NY area is the 230 Fifth Rooftop Garden. Situated in the heart of Manhattan this 22,000 square-foot rooftop bar can accommodate about 350 people. The rooftop has 1940s furniture surrounded by palm trees and fountains, giving it a most tranquil atmosphere. Order up some eats from the mostly Malaysian-influenced menu and sip on a specialty cocktails. The bar is open year round, and guests get complementary robes during the colder season.

3. Float, on the Hard Rock Hotel – San Diego, CA

In San Diego‘s Hard Rock Hotel lives the Float, featuring a comfortable bar, spacious pool deck for lounging and multiple fire-pits for keeping warm on those cold Southern California nights.

4. Spire Bar & Lounge, on The Hotel – Miami, FL

The Spire Bar and Lounge is located in The Hotel in Miami, and is a great place for young spring breakers. Located in Miami’s Art Deco District this stylish bar offers great views of the Miami skyline and beach, both of which may be enjoyed with the bar’s extensive cocktail and tapas menus.

5. Rooftop Lounge, on The Townhouse Hotel – Miami, FL

Also in Miami is the Rooftop Lounge at the top of The Townhouse Hotel. During the day this is an excellent place to kick back and relax by the pool. At night, the roofdeck turns into one of South Beach’s great social hot spots. There are regular parties every Friday and Saturday nights with a maximum capacity of 250 people. The affordable drinks and panoramic views make this a rooftop you don’t want to miss.6. Medjool Sky Terrace – San Francisco, California

Medjool Sky Terrace in San Francisco is the rooftop of the world-famous Medjool Restaurant. It Features a Mediterranean style tapas menu, cocktails, and breathtaking 360-degree views of San Francisco. Medjool Sky Terrace does not take reservations, so in order to take advantage of the bar and lounge it is best to arrive at a reasonable hour.

7. The Peabody – Memphis, TN

A well known hotel for rooftop parties in Memphis is The Peabody. Playing host to parties for some 80 years now, The Peabody Hotel is a historical and elegant place, perfect for vacationers and residents, alike. The cover? A mere $5. The result? A night to remember in Memphis.

8. Sky Bar, The Hilton – Virginia Beach, VA

On the rooftop of the Virginia Beach Hilton is Sky Bar, offering exceptional views from the 21st floor. On a clear night, you can see all the way to North Carolina. Featuring a specially prepared menu, high-end beers, wines, and spirits and the infinity-edge pool, this is the perfect place to experience this hotel’s full beauty.

9. Above Beverly Hills, The Thompson Beverly Hills – Los Angeles, CA

Rising above the not-to-clean air of Los Angeles lies the Thompson Beverley Hills rooftop bar, located just off Rodeo Drive. Only to hotel patrons and their invited guests, this rooftop bar has become a favorite LA hot-spot for those looking out for the newest place to see and be seen. T

10. Highbar, The Gramercy Park Hotel – New York, NY

Nestled on the top of the world famous Gramercy Park Hotel is the Highbar. A likely place to see celebrities, this 18th floor New York terrace bar offers panoramic views of Manhattan. Open until 3 a.m. on weekends, the Highbar hosts drinks and simple foods, such as hot dogs and hamburgers.

Aaron Gruenert is a Seed.com writer