Renaissance Hotels, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, has debuted its fifth property in New York City - Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. Featuring the original landmark marquee, the much-anticipated property is situated in the heart of one of the world’s most iconic neighbourhoods, on the site of the historic Victoria Theater on 125th Street and steps away from the storied Apollo Theater.
Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel is the tallest building north of Central Park and the brand’s first hotel in Harlem. The property boasts 211 guest rooms and suites, a dynamic culinary offering and 9000+ square feet of event space. Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel combines the vibrant spirit and rich culture of Harlem with the polished glamour of the Harlem Renaissance era.
"Harlem is a historical epicentre of art, cuisine, music, and culture, and it is of the utmost importance that we stay true to the authenticity of the locale – from the details in the design to our daily programming and entertainment. In bringing the Renaissance Hotel brand to this famed neighbourhood, we are inviting travellers near and far to enjoy all that this community has to offer,” said Jennifer Connell, Global Brand Leader at Renaissance Hotels.
Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel sits in the Victoria Building, previously home to the renowned Victoria Theater. Initially established as a vaudeville venue in 1917, the Victoria Theater was later transformed into a cinema before remaining unused for many years. Preserving the essence of the Victoria Theater, the hotel conserves its outer facade, marquee, outdoor ticket booth and handsome staircase that graces the building’s entrance.
Conceptualized by AJC design and in line with Renaissance Hotels’ design approach across its global portfolio, the very fabric of Harlem’s past, present and future is ingrained into its architecture and every design element. The ambience pays homage to the cultural iconography of Harlem, honouring musical legends such as Billie Holiday, Josephine Baker, Louis Armstrong and Cab Calloway. A true celebration of the neighbourhood, the property features custom, artistic renditions of these icons, as well as a contemporary art piece of Harlem gracing the library ceiling. The 211 guest rooms include a mix of 107 single rooms, 101 doubles, and three suites featuring Langston Hughes quotes adorning the walls, expansive views of Harlem and Central Park, plush bedding, and modern state-of-the-art amenities - all a welcome reprieve from the hustle of the city.
Destined to become a neighbourhood hotspot, Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel’s restaurant – The Victoria, operated by Silk Hospitality Group – encompasses a stunning marble bar, dramatic lounge seating and a fifth-floor mezzanine that overlooks the lively heart of the hotel. Drawing inspiration from the cultural landscape of Harlem, the Victoria features a menu by Executive Chef, Bobby Bouyer, that offers a creative twist on modern global cuisine told through the lens of classic technique with nods to the cuisine of the Gulf Region of the American South. Signature dishes include the “Shrimp n’ Grits” - featuring crispy cheddar grits paired with grilled shrimp and dressed in a sweet & spicy aioli; Hot Chicken Sandwich - a crispy chicken thigh sandwich dunked in a combination of Chinese chilli-crisp with Berberé, an African spice blend; and Pepper Pot Beef Brisket - a Guyanese specialty served with Jamaican-inspired Rice and Peas and locally grown kale. The menu features a wide array of small plates perfect for sharing with friends, family, and neighbours, and focuses on creating a sense of community through food.
The property’s extensive and imaginative cocktail program is sure to tantalize. The carefully curated cocktail offerings are inspired by the neighbourhood’s rich historic tapestry. Reinvented classics such as the Jaded Sazerac turn the traditional beverage on its head using clear Kansas Clean Distilled Whiskey, green Chartreuse, absinthe and notes of vanilla, providing a smoother version perfect for the modern palate. The Victoria Cosmopolitan is an elegant and delicate reinvention of the classic, featuring Empress Butterfly Pea Gin, Smoke Lab Vodka, St. Germain, cranberry, lemon, and cucumber. The bar also offers a wide selection of wines, ranging from more traditional selection to adventurous options.
Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel will introduce its ‘Evenings at Renaissance’ with unparalleled entertainment, including nightly jazz performances at the bar’s signature grand piano and local arts performances that celebrate the culture of Harlem. These after-hours events will invite both travellers and locals alike to feel at home in the space.
The new hotel offers over 9,000 square feet of meeting and event space spread across five venues. Fully customizable, the property’s event spaces can accommodate up to 300 people, perfect for weddings, board meetings, team-building retreats, performing arts and more. Business and leisure guests can enjoy flexible meeting spaces marked by inspired, directional design elements that conceptualize and pay homage to Harlem’s historical icons known for their artistic flair.
