KCon55
Business · Jul 2026
“Highs and Lows”
The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad evokes mixed emotions. It has been over a year since I last visited, as I've recently found myself frequenting the Central Park location. I decided to return to NoMad because there's no comparison when it comes to the hard product with its modern and contemporary hotel, and I wanted to see how the property and service had evolved as the hotel celebrated its fourth anniversary. As a frequent traveler, I appreciate pre-arrival communication for simple requests like pillow type and climate control. The Guest Relations team, particularly Mary, was responsive, warm and kind, embodying the luxury hospitality expected from a brand like Ritz-Carlton. If this level of care extended to other departments, the hotel might achieve a Forbes 5-star rating, but it currently does not. Upon arrival, the atmosphere is sophisticated yet unwelcoming. Staff are not proactive in assisting with luggage or opening doors. In the chic lobby, I waited several minutes for a front desk agent to acknowledge me despite being the only guest there -- and I'm not referring to loyalty or status -- which also did not happen, but just a simple acknowledgement that another human was standing before him. The coldness was abundant and left the feeling that interacting with guests was an inconvenience. The rooms and views remain stunning and some of the best in the city. After 4 years, the newness is still in effect and that is of credit to the housekeeping and maintenance teams who care for the property day in and out. As some have mentioned, the A/C and climate control is lacking. After reaching out in advance, I still woke up several times in an uncomfortably warm yet beautiful room. You will need to decide which matters most to you. I am attempting to reach out to Engineering again to see what can be done. Here's to being able to finally crack the code on the third try. The Club Lounge is another standout: highly attentive and engaged attendants who maintain a peaceful environment whether to work or just relax. The culinary offerings throughout the day provide an excellent variety with José Andrés' signature influence. The F&B offerings are truly a highlight, shoutout to their manager Sophia. Ultimately, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad excels in its pre-arrival communications, design and aesthetics of the hotel, and the Club Lounge. Yet, the not so great unwelcoming onsite interactions or multiple follow-ups for simple requests are not representative of a guest experience at a Forbes 4-star property. The priorities seem to be geared more to maintaining its standing as the "hottest" venue in the city than in delivering truly bespoke guest service. The inconsistent service makes sense as to why this beautiful hotel has yet to achieve and maintain 5-star status. The building does not make the experience at this level, the people do and that is where The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad does not deliver.





























