When my husband and I arrived at The Martinique New York on Broadway for what we thought would be a simple winter weekend in Manhattan, we expected simply convenience: a historic hotel close to Broadway, Times Square, and Midtown’s familiar rhythm, that was and as beautiful as it was interesting.
However, we found ourselves immersed in a place that carries more than just architectural significance, but one that holds plenty of intriguing stories. While navigating an unexpected blizzard that turned a short stay into something far more memorable, we found ourselves experiencing a time spent in New York City full of adventures.
A Hotel That Has Lived Through New York’s Evolution
Opened in 1898 and designed by Henry J. Hardenbergh, the architect behind The Plaza and The Dakota, The Martinique reflects the elegance of New York’s Gilded Age while standing firmly in the present.
Its French Renaissance-style exterior still anchors the block on 32nd Street, a visual reminder of a time when Midtown was just beginning to emerge as the cultural and commercial center it is today. Over the decades, the building has adapted alongside the city itself. It has welcomed travelers through eras of prosperity and uncertainty alike, evolving from a luxury destination to a transitional residence during more difficult periods in New York’s history before undergoing restoration and becoming part of Hilton’s Curio Collection.
With more than a century of history, it’s no surprise that the Martinique carries stories, and one is particularly tied to the 17th floor, where preserved historical elements serve as reminders of the building’s past. Guests encounter artifacts and narratives that reflect the building’s evolving role in New York life, reinforcing the sense that the Martinique is not simply a place to stay, but one that has lived alongside the city for generations.
A Location That Shapes the Experience
Positioned between Herald Square and NoMad, the hotel places guests in the center of Manhattan without overwhelming them. The Empire State Building sits just blocks away, Madison Square Garden is within easy reach, and Broadway theaters are close enough to allow for spontaneous plans for those who are passionate about the arts and all the historic experiences that the city offers.
One evening, we walked over to see “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,” where actor Tom Felton reprised his role as Draco Malfoy onstage, and his inclusion in the show and performance is one that is being offered for a limited time only at the theater, and we were over the moon to be able to attend.
Dining That Anchors the Stay
The Martinique’s on-site dining options became central to our experience, particularly once the storm arrived.
Carnegie Diner & Café offered a lively and approachable setting that quickly became part of our daily rhythm. The menu moves comfortably between breakfast classics and hearty entrées, with options ranging from avocado toast and omelets to stacked burgers, roast chicken, and indulgent sandwiches. It was also where two drinks defined my stay. In the middle of a snow-filled afternoon, I ordered a Cosmopolitan that was bright and perfectly balanced. The next morning, I indulged in a fresh orange juice mimosa that felt celebratory in the midst of winter weather.
In the evenings, Bronze Owl offered a shift in tone. The space leans into a relaxed lounge atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after navigating snowy sidewalks. The food here moved toward shareable plates that encouraged conversation, including mezze platters with hummus and falafel, shrimp tempura served with bang bang sauce, and meatballs finished with lemon ricotta. Flatbreads and pizzas, from classic Margherita to a pepperoni version finished with hot honey, add substance when needed, while sliders and the house burger provided heartier options.
When the Blizzard Rewrote the Weekend
The historic winter storm that swept through New York City halted travel plans and transformed the pace of the weekend. Flights were delayed, streets quieted, and the City That Never Sleeps suddenly paused. When the storm intensified, and the kind staff at the hotel offered us “an extra night to not leave us out in the cold,” an offer that we appreciated but also made us laugh as we tried to figure out what was next while dealing with flight cancellations.
Instead of rushing to leave, we found ourselves staying longer and experiencing the city in ways we hadn’t anticipated. We spent additional time with close friends who live in the city, sharing meals and conversations that wouldn’t have happened otherwise. Outside the hotel, my husband and I started a spontaneous snowball fight. We held hands as we walked the empty streets, soft snow falling on us, and even watched an art installation in Times Square. During a lull in the storm the next day, we made our way to Central Park, where I experienced the beauty of the park covered in fluffy white all over, and built a small snowman with my husband.
By the time flights resumed and the city returned to motion, the weekend had become something far more meaningful than we anticipated when we first checked in. The Martinique didn’t just house our weekend, it shaped it.
Martinique New York on Broadway, 49 W. 32nd St., New York, NY. Call 212/763-3800 or visit
hilton.com/en/hotels/nyccuqq-martinique-new-york-on-broadway
