I’m excited for our second issue of NYC/MQ Centerstage. To my surprise, our first issue ignited a fun conversation about our Times Square Hotel and its evolution during its 37-year history. So many of our past and existing customers commented on their “Marquis Moment”. One reader shared that New York Marriott Marquis was the spot she and her mother would have lunch before their annual pilgrimage to see a Broadway musical. It’s those little stories that inspire our whole team to create those little (or big) travel moments that we all cherish and remember - forever.
To that end, on June 7th we launched a dining experience like no other called Le Petit Chef on Broadway. Words can’t do this experience justice, so do a quick search on TikTok or Instagram using the key phrase “Le Petit Chef NYC” and it will return a few videos, one of which now has 2M+ views, that capture the essence of what is both a dinner and a show. A little animated chef measuring 6 centimeters comes alive right on your table and prepares a four-course meal that will not disappoint! (TheViewNYC.com)
How did this experience come to be? Our hotel has always had a close relationship with food and beverage. During the major renovation that we completed earlier this year, we brought two new restaurants to the New York scene that serve up quintessential New York City fare. To do this, we partnered with Union Square Hospitality, one of the most well-respected operators in our business. Their restaurants are iconic. Think Union Square Café and Gramercy Tavern. Their task was to build on a legacy of great beverage and food for locals and explorers alike. It was a logical next step for us to marry great food and service with a great experience like Le Petit Chef on Broadway.
This July issue focuses a bit on the food culture that Union Square Hospitality and Marriott know so well. We hope to see you in New York City soon!
CONTENTS 8 10
4 6 14 15 16
From Dan's Desk
On The Menu: Danny Meyer and Union Square Hospitality Group
Celebrate Good Times A Collection of the Best Private Dining Spots in NYC
Team Building in NYC: How to bring your team together in the Big Apple
Eat Like a Local
5 Bragworthy Instagrammable Experiences in NYC
Hotel Activities
It’s summer. New York City is abuzz with visitors from all over and we are grateful to welcome them back. At this time of year, I’m always excited to revisit some of the city’s classic destinations, as well as explore some of the new places that have opened. Just as the New York Marriott Marquis is a New York City classic, it continues to evolve, having completed a major transformation of its design and services.
At another level, I’m interested in seeing modern takes on classic destinations. If Central Park is enormous and breathtaking, what does a more compact, boutique style public park look like here in 2022? My latest discovery is Little Island described as an artificial island park. Its address is literally listed “in the Hudson River”. This whimsical floating park is built upon 280 individual piles at Pier 55, as reimagined space, after the damages from Hurricane Sandy. The landscape is meant to convey the feeling of a leaf floating on water. The piles rise up to
the sky, ending in giant tulipshaped structures. Wow. It is truly breathtaking in a modern way. Best of all, it is free to the public, and it’s a great place to relax and restore. You can also attend ticketed events that include music and dance performances.
Speaking of performances, I’m a big fan of Broadway
favorite). The choices are endless. It’s also the 30th anniversary of New York Restaurant Week, starting on July 18 and running through August 31, citywide.
When I think of a classic restaurant, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a fancy one. I was just at one of my favorite neighborhood places, John’s Luncheonette, a diner on West 67th Street on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. It’s the best for a burger and a beer. It’s a true diner experience. For an upscale, high-touch experience, Danny Meyer’s new Ci Siamo at Manhattan West Plaza is wonderful. It has an Italian-inflected menu and features live fire cooking. Its name means “Here we are,” or “We’ve finally arrived.” Here’s to a great summer, no matter where your travels take you.
“Hospitality is the fabric of what makes New York City such an amazing place to live and visit,” says Union Square Hospitality Group’s Founder and CEO, Danny Meyer. “Whether on the stage, in our cultural institutions, or in our restaurants, New York has always attracted and welcomed the top performers and audiences in all that we do.”
Last June, as New York came back, Broadway reopened, and life began to blossom in the theatre district, The New York Marriott Marquis and Union Square Hospitality Group launched their partnership and shared vision to bring hospitality back to the heart of Times Square.
Along with operating the food and beverage concepts at The New York Marriott Marquis, Union Square Hospitality Group and Union Square Events see a
real opportunity to welcome visitors from across the globe back to New York.
Danny, whose wife Audrey is an actress, singer, and avid supporter of the arts, has long-standing roots in the Broadway and NYC theatre community. The opportunity to bring hospitality to such an iconic destination, while welcoming back both tourists and locals alike came at a time when the restoration of New York City’s brand felt more crucial than ever before.
“For too long, New Yorkers were not able to gather together to hear the clinking of glasses in restaurants or see the lights on Broadway. Our partnership with the storied New York Marriott Marquis was an exciting step forward in re-engaging the culture, travel, and hospitality industries - and the people who make them so special.”
Summer is in full swing and we're all feeling ready to clink glasses again. Join us for your next gathering at the New York Marriott Marquis or venture out to explore some of Union Square Hospitality Group's varied private dining rooms across the city.
Whether your event is big or small, Union Square Hospitality Group has you covered with the perfect space to celebrate. From intimate seated dinners to sky-high cocktail parties, they’re serving up hospitality to suit any occasion.
CI
440 W 33RD ST SUITE #100, NEW YORK, NY 10001
Ci Siamo celebrates simplicity with an Italian-inspired menu, cooked around a live fire with seasonal ingredients. By bridging traditional recipes with contemporary techniques, Ci Siamo combines the familiar with the progressive. The restaurant offers several private dining spaces and menus, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, views of the Empire State Building, a private bar, and an outdoor terrace.
BLUE SMOKE FLATIRON
255 VESEY STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10282
A BBQ hotspot where all are welcome, Blue Smoke serves brisket, ribs, and other classic BBQ staples. If you’re feeling thirsty, Blue Smoke also stocks a full selection of local, southern, and craft beers – along with fine American whiskeys. Blue Smoke is truly for everyone – colleagues, couples, and friends will all enjoy this establishment. Blue Smoke’s private dining room is cozy and intimate, with seating room for 25, or reception room for 35.
GRAMERCY TAVERN FLATIRON
42 E 20 TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10003
An institution of American cuisine, Gramercy Tavern was opened by acclaimed restaurateur Danny Meyer in 1994. Gramercy Tavern boasts warm hospitality, unparalleled service, and an ever-changing seasonal menu. Gramercy Tavern's Private Dining Room can seat up to 22 people. Rustic decor, timber-beamed ceilings, and a handcrafted dining table adorn this intimate space.
MANHATTA LOWER MANHATTAN
28 LIBERTY ST 60TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY 10005
Manhatta was built as an ode to New York City. The restau-
rant pairs a casual dinner menu with an impressive selection of international wines and spirits. Perched 60 stories in the air and located in the heart of the Financial District, Manhatta is perfectly located for an after-work meal. Manhatta also offers a private dining space for your next soiree.
MARTA NOMAD
29 E 29 TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10016
Marta makes crackly-crusted pizza with a wood-fired oven, just north of Madison Square Park. While most known for their pizza, the menu here features antipasti, calzones, and other entrees. Marta offers several options for private events, including a mezzanine, lounge, or an entire floor. The restaurant can accommodate parties from 10 to 120 guests.
THE MODERN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN
9 W 53 RD STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10019 This two Michelin-starred, contemporary American restaurant is located in the Museum of Modern Art. Chef Thomas Allen creates modern American dishes, paired with creative cocktails. The Modern's Private Dining Room features floor-to-ceiling views of MoMA's Abby Aldrich
Rockefeller Sculpture Garden. This private space can accommodate 64 seated guests, or 80 for a standing reception.
PORCHLIGHT CHELSEA
271 11 TH AVE, NEW YORK, NY 10001
Another high-quality haunt, Porchlight pairs fun Southern cuisine with innovative cocktails. Fittingly, Porchlight offers two separate porch spaces to accommodate private events. An indoor “porch” can fit 15, while an outdoor space has room for 40. Porchlight also has a private game room, equipped with board games, darts, playing cards, and more. This space fits 40 guests.
UNION SQUARE
CAFE UNION SQUARE
101 E 19 TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10003
Union Square Cafe is the flagship restaurant that launched Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group. This casual, contemporary restaurant has won five James Beard awards for its approach to high-quality cuisine. For semi-private dining, Union Square Cafe offers The Alcove, a lively dining room that seats between 6 and 12 guests. Union Square Cafe’s Park & Irving room offers a fully private space that accommodates up to 40.
1535 BROADWAY NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10036
The Perch at Broadway Lounge is a modern, chic outdoor terrace and private space with fantastic views of Times Square and New York City. Right in the heart of Times Square, Perch is great for tourists and locals alike. A diverse, classic menu provides something for everyone's tastes.
Looking for engaging ways to bring your team together? Whether you're looking to connect your remote team in person or facilitate brainstorming and bonding for the next quarter, The New York Marriott Marquis has you covered. Inside the hotel, you’ll find conference rooms, suites, dining opportunities, and more, while NYC's best team-building attractions are just beyond our doors.
Start your team’s day with an elevated breakfast on Perch outdoor terrace. Whether your team is more of a ‘bloody mary’ or ‘granola and a smoothie,’ crowd you’ll enjoy your breakfast with a stunning view of New York City. This is a great place to go over your day, have an informal meeting, or just let everyone enjoy themselves together.
Everyone loves a spa day. Just down the street from our hotel, you’ll find Allure Day Spa. Allure is known for its friendly staff and high quality spa treatments. With a variety of packages and options to choose from, there’s no better way to say ‘thank you’ to your team.
After you’ve pampered your team, it’ll be time to grab a bite to eat. We recommend Carmine's Italian Restaurant, conveniently located near the New York Marriott Marquis. This classic Italian eatery serves hefty portions of family-style classics, including pizza and pastas. If you’re looking for a mid-day refreshment, Carmine’s also features a full bar.
Next up, get creative at MoMa. Museum of Modern Art is home to some of the world’s finest works of art. Inspire your team to think differently by checking out the MoMa’s incredible collection. For a fun team-building activity, try asking everyone to pick their most inspirational painting. Or, just roam around and enjoy the collection!
The New York Marriott Marquis features a variety of conference rooms and suites, for your convenience. For team-building on the go, this can be a great spot to hash out plans for the coming months or years. You can also use this conference room to host a guest speaker, for a little extra motivation.
Finish your day at the hotel with a captivating dining experience that immerses all the senses in The View Restaurant. Take your team on a culinary adventure as a tiny animated French chef prepares a 4-course meal right before your eyes.
Kick your day off at Revel & Rye, an intimate restaurant right here in the New York Marriott Marquis. Open at 6:30 every morning, Revel & Rye is perfect for early-risers and latesleepers alike. This familiar, comforting dining experience is a great way to start your team's day around classic NYC dishes.
After a tasty breakfast, head over to our semi-private Urban Cabanas where business gets social. An ideal fit for groups of 10 and under, our Urban Cabanas offer large TV's with screen sharing capabilities, reliable Wifi, outlets, and an array of food and beverage options for snack breaks. .
For a high-energy lunch, try Havana Central Times Square. This bustling Cuban restaurant offers classic fare, refreshing cocktails, and live music in a retro-Havana setting.
After a lively lunch, relax with a tour of the NY waterway. Take in the sights and learn all there is to know about the great city of New York.
For a top-down view of the city, try checking out the Edge. Not for the faint of heart, the Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. 100 stories in the air, your team can look upon the city through a glass floor on this observation deck.
Finish your day with The Marquis Mentalist, a captivating show with renowned mentalist and illusionist Ken Salaz. Be amazed as Salaz reads minds, predicts the future, and is sure to astound your team with amazing illusions.
229 W 43RD ST
Created by three friends from Tijuana and California, Los Tacos is something of an institution in NYC. It’s truly one of New York City’s favorite taco spots. This casual, cool Mexican eatery offers classic favorites like tacos (of course), tostadas, quesadillas, and aguas frescas. Always bustling and always busy, Los Tacos is a great place to grab a super-fast bite to eat. You can’t really go wrong – affordable prices and generous portions make Los Tacos one of our favorites.
Just because you’re a tourist, doesn’t mean you need to eat like a tourist. Here are some of our favorite spots around Times Square where you can eat like a NYC local.
W 53RD AND 6TH AVE (AND MORE)
Originally started as a group of food carts in Manhattan, The Halal Guys is a fast-casual restaurant that specializes in super authentic halal and middle eastern food. Enjoy fan favorites like a shawarma plate, falafel, or a gyro with a side of baba ghanoush or hummus. If you’re on-the-go and need a quick, tasty meal, it’s tough to beat the Halal Guys.
811 8TH AVE
For classic New York City Chinese food, Real Kung Fu is located right in Times Square. With a menu of popular steamed buns, dumplings, and noodles, there’s something for everyone at Real Kung Fu. New Yorkers looking for a quick, tasty bite to eat love the speedy service and high-quality food offered at Real Kung Fu. The menu here boasts Chinese classics and new takes on the old –there’s something for everyone.
1515 BROADWAY
Cheesecake is undoubtedly the star of the show here, with varieties and flavors of all kinds. But don’t be fooled – Junior’s offers a whole lot more than a heavenly slice of New York style cheesecake. This bakery features a full menu, diverse enough to suit anyone’s tastebuds. With decor that’s somewhere between classic bakery and NYC diner, Junior’s is a great experience for the whole family.
152 W 44TH ST
A BBQ lover’s dream, Virgil's Real Barbecue has been rated one of America's top 10 BBQ restaurants since being established in 1994. At Virgil’s, classic BBQ meats are roasted slow and low to create food that feeds the body and the soul. Whether you’re coming from the south, or just want some great, oldfashioned BBQ, Virgil’s is a fantastic choice. Conveniently located in Times Square, this bustling BBQ hotspot is a local go-to.
The world-famous Museum of Ice Cream was designed to feed your inner child. Three floors of ice-cream fun mean this attraction is perfect for all ages – and looks great on camera. In addition to enjoying unlimited ice cream, the museum provides educational opportunities about everyone’s favorite dessert. Bright colors and plenty of photoops make this museum perfect for Instagram.
Get a taste of our new Marquis Moment Sundae, an item so deliciously over-the-top that you’ll feel compelled to brag about it. It's a layered strawberry sundae with cheesecake, cookie crumbs, vanilla ice cream, strawberry twizzlers, Pirouette cookies, and a colorful lollipop. This vibrant dessert is decadent, gorgeous, and ready for your Instagram feed.
The New York Chinese Scholar Garden is one of two authentic classical outdoor Chinese gardens built in the United States. It is modeled after the Ming Dynasty gardens, and features architecture that was crafted in Suzhou, China. This Instagrammable attraction features eight pavilions, a bamboo forest path, waterfalls, a Koi-filled pond, Chinese calligraphy, and a variety of Ghongshi scholar’s rocks.
Fun for the whole family, Candytopia NY is now open! This interactive, confectionfilled experience has been featured in Thrillist, Harper’s Bazaar, and other national publications. If your inner child has ever dreamed of finding that golden ticket, Candytopia is the attraction for you. Or, if you’re traveling with young children, this experience is sure to delight.
Ashley Longshore is a selftaught artist, entrepreneur, and author from Louisiana. Her provocative work deals with issues of feminism and identity, with stunning colors and impactful messages. These paintings are a thrill to see in person, and will look just as good on your next Instagram post.
There are a thousand New York Cities and a different version for everyone who steps onto the island – but there’s no better way to experience New York City than through the eyes of a local. We went to our resident expert, lifelong New Yorker, and M Club Concierge, Michael Bongiardino, to get his look on a perfect July weekend in the city.
Michael grew up in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn and just celebrated his 15th anniversary with Marriott International on May 15th. Before joining Marriott, he spent 22 years on Wall Street, and spent one year at the Ritz Carlton Central Park before finding his home at the New York Marriott Marquis where he has been caring for our guests since 2008.
Michael’s passion for people, places, sports, photography, concerts, theater & dining – paired with his lifelong love of New York City – make him the ideal person to turn to when planning your perfect weekend here. Regular guests may recognize him from his years welcoming them into our Executive Lounge or providing his concierge expertise - and you can now find him on any given day providing that same warm welcome outside of our brand new M Club.
This 4th of July, the Macy’s Fireworks show is going to light up the sky. But, it’s more than fireworks. This show also features musical guests like Pitbull, the cast of Moulin Rouge the Musical, Carly Pearce, 5 Seconds of Summer and more.
There's nothing like visiting Coney Island in July. Fun for kids and adults alike, thrill-seekers can enjoy roller coasters and rides at Luna Park, or try their luck at carnival games and fill up on fried delicacies and tasty ice cream. Or, take a refreshing dip in the ocean after laying on the beach.
If you’re a fan of the arts, this one’s for you. Come see Da Vinci's works at The Metropolitan Museum of Art and other masterful artists’ works on display. Whether you’re into Warhol or Rembrandt, there’s something here for everyone. Even the youngest travelers are sure to enjoy this museum.
One of the world’s finest athletic institutions, Chelsea Piers is Manhattan's most popular place to learn, practice, play, and compete in over 25 different sports and activities. This destination truly has it all. Rock climbing, driving ranges, skating schools and more guarantee that you’ll have a blast at Chelsea Piers.
Got a music lover in your group? This July, there are all kinds of awesome concerts on show.
BillyJoel-July20thatMSG
SmokeyRobinson-July27thatHackensackMeridianHealthTheatre
JacksonBrown-July26th,27th,29th&30thatBeaconTheatre
For the patriots out there, The Intrepid Sea & Air Museum is an American military and maritime history museum, showing a collection of ships. Take a day to learn about America's military through the ages. The museum also shows movies on the main deck on select evenings – all summer long!
Movies lovers are sure to enjoy Seaport Cinema’s Monday Night movie screenings. This summer, the cinema returns with a wide range of movies screening on The Rooftop at Pier 17. Enjoy the fresh air, great views of New York City, and your favorite films on Monday evenings.
JULY19thKidsNight-ToyStory
JULY28-Moonlight
Le Petit Chef is a captivating dining experience that immerses all the senses. Be delighted as an animated French chef prepares a 4-course meal right in front of your eyes. This culinary adventure provides whimsical, engaging animation that blends with enticing dishes, showcasing the story behind each course in a unique presentation that amazes and delights.
Cost:$199perperson(+taxand servicefee).
InformationandReservations: www.theviewnyc.com
Perch is our chic outdoor terrace that is attached to our Broadway Lounge restaurant. Perch is now open daily with a limited menu, from 5pm to 10pm. Note:Walk-insonlyonPerch. Reservations in advance are not currentlyacceptedforthisspace.
To celebrate Pride in June, we rolled out a special signature cocktail in Broadway Lounge called "Love is Love”. This delicious cocktail was so popular that we added it to our summer cocktail menu. Featuring lime, agave, ginger beer and vodka, topped with a refreshing watermelon popsicle for a summer-friendly sipper.
The Broadway Lounge now features live music, every Wednesday from 8pm – 11pm.
July6-DebbieTjong
@debbietjongmusic
July13-Nicolezuraitis
@nicolezmusic
July20-Fleureseule
@fleurseule
July27-Nicolezuraitis
@nicolezmusic
THE MARQUIS MENTALIST
After enjoying dinner at Revel & Rye Bar & Restaurant, retreat to our urban cabana. Behind the curtains, experience an intimate, up-close and personal table show with The Marquis Mentalist. He will enchant while performing unimaginable feats of illusion & mentalism. Menu selections can be made tableside.
This experience is built as an add-on in OpenTable for just the show itself. Diners can dine on their own in the restaurant and order off the regular menu, then purchase tickets as an add-on to the show separately. Advanced reservations highly recommended.
Tickets:$50perperson
Reservations
THEATER MENU:
In the heart of the Theater District, we’re conveniently located near all major Broadway shows – including Beetlejuice in our very own Marquis Theatre! Starting mid-July, we will be launching a special prix fixe pre-theater menu in Broadway Lounge and Revel & Rye.
Cost:$60perpersonfor3delicious courses
RESTAURANT WEEK
Stop by to enjoy Restaurant Week specials at the Broadway Lounge. Monday–Friday,5pm-10pm 3courseprix-fixemenufor$60 July18–21
Reservations
Every Monday in July we’ll be screening family-friendly films on our giant LED screen in the Revel & Rye Atrium. There will be a special family-friendly movie menu available for guests to order from and enjoy while watching the movie.
Admission: Free
Date:EveryMondayinJuly
Location:Revel&RyeAtriumon the8thfloor
Time:Startingat6pm
