New York's Beloved Le Parker Meridien Hotel Gets a New Identity

Don't worry, Burger Joint is safe

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Published on 11/04/21

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Thompson Central Park New York room — Courtesy of Thompson Central Park New York

This week, New York City got its third Thompson hotel when Thompson Central Park New York opened on Nov. 1 and joined the Beekman and Gild Hall downtown. The new hotel is inside the former space of the famous Parker New York, which closed in 2020 and underwent a near top-to-bottom renovation.

One thing that hasn’t changed: beloved speakeasy-style hamburger spot Burger Joint was left fully intact, complete with its graffitied walls and well-worn booths (although they have added a Beyond Burger to the no-frills menu). Otherwise, the hotel boasts newly designed interiors, including a redesigned lobby, 587 guestrooms, and a new cocktail bar, Standing Room Only (SRO). Still to come in spring 2022 are various other dining outlets, an event space, and Upper Stories, a collection of 174 high-floor rooms with expansive views of nearby Central Park, luxurious amenities, and special guest experiences.

Thompson Central Park New York’s public spaces were designed by architect Thomas Juul-Hansen and guestrooms were done by Stonehill Taylor, all with contemporary flair. Even the entry-level rooms are pretty spacious, especially for Manhattan, and suites are quite large. The rooms have a neutral color palette with pops of jewel-toned color and include modern light fixtures, leather headboards, cozy seating areas, marble bathrooms, and musical-themed artwork, in a nod to the hotel’s popularity with musicians in its previous life. Double-bay rooms feature a swivel TV that allows guests to comfortably rotate entertainment to face sleeping and living areas, including pullout couches.

Thompson Central Park New York lobby — Courtesy of Thompson Central Park New York

Downstairs in the lobby, massive wood-clad portals lead to an organic shaped wood and leather reception desk and an impressive central atrium with 36-foot ceilings that have a central skylight. The space stretches between 56th and 57th Street, with entrances on both sides. In between is intimate seating and a bar serving small bites and drinks, opening in the spring. Fitness rooms with studios for yoga and pilates and a hair and nail salon are also on the basement level.

Rooms at Thompson Central Park New York start at an introductory rate of $420 per night. To book a stay, visit Thompson Central Park New York's website.