Unless you set out looking for it, you’d probably never stumble upon The Tuscany, a St. Giles Luxury Hotel in midtown Manhattan. Impossible as it may seem, the boutique property is located on a quiet, brownstone-lined street that’s just three blocks from Grand Central but lacks the “touristy” feel of its traditionally tourist-ridden neighborhood.
The Tuscany originally opened in the 1950s and hosted guests like Marilyn Monroe, Joe DiMaggio and Audrey Hepburn, for whom the lobby bar and lounge “The Audrey” is named. Most recently, the four-star hotel underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation updating the 124 rooms and suites, in addition to the 17th floor Penthouse.
Inside The Penthouse
There’s something to be said for the personalized service and attention to detail that guests receive at a boutique property, compared to the city’s surplus of luxury cookie-cutter competitors. (Case in point: on a recent stay, our suite was thoughtfully outfitted with balloons and a spread of desserts after the concierge overheard we were celebrating a birthday.) But beyond the special touches, the rooms themselves are the property’s biggest selling point. They’re oversized (especially for Manhattan standards), furnished with chic, modern décor and have spa-like bathrooms overflowing with Molton Brown amenities—not to mention, linens so soft, you’ll be tempted to go home and buy them for your own home like we did.
To get better acquainted with the property, we caught up with Abigail Tan, Head of U.K., Europe and U.S.A. for the St Giles Hotel Group, who gave us a glimpse into the hotel’s most requested room.
The most requested room:
The Penthouse is an experience like no other. Your own private floor, offering more than 1,700 square-feet of indoor and 1,800 of outdoor space. The barrel vault ceiling, finished with reclaimed barn wood in the main room is a wonder. It has chandeliers that dazzle and a stunning weathered steel fireplace. Outfitted with a full kitchen, featuring premium appliances and accessories, the Penthouse is perfect for entertaining.
Master Bedroom
What makes it so special:
Two separate bedrooms, on opposite sides of the floor, provide the luxury of privacy, while both bedrooms feature marvelous views. The private wraparound terrace features a spectacular vantage point of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings.
The rate:
$2,000 per night.
Celebrity guests:
In respect of the privacy of all our guests we can’t disclose this information.
Your personal favorite:
Our Loft Suites.
Kitchen
Because…
The Loft Suites offer a separate living space that centers on a custom art piece, selected to link modern art and classic luxury. These works feature artists from Paul Smith to Marilyn Minter. Select Loft Suites feature restored original fireplaces and some feature views of the art-deco Chrysler Building or the iconic Empire State Building.
Fun fact:
The Tuscany was the first hotel to have color TVs in each guestroom. Audrey Hepburn was a regular guest of The Tuscany, and our lobby bar and lounge is named in honor of the iconic actress. Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio used to hang out in The Tuscany’s Cherry Lounge.
