The New York Marriott Marquis has just completed a generational transformation that changed not only its look, but how customers will experience travel.
Here is how NYC/MQ came to be…
It was March 8, 2020. Construction workers buzzed throughout the sales and catering offices at the New York Marriott Marquis, removing desks and cubicles to make way for our front desk team, who would find a new temporary home on our 3rd floor. Our offices were being located to the “roof” perched almost 50 stories above
Times Square. I admit I was excited. There are offices with windows, and there are offices with views. This was the latter. And it was spectacular.
The next day, there were confirmed cases of Covid-19 in New York City. I could not have imagined that just three days later, I’d leave the city to work remotely for almost 18 months.
A bell cart full of my office content arrived to a space i would never use. The boxes were never unpacked. Like a time capsule, they stayed in the same spot for nearly two years.
Over the next few weeks, NYC Covid cases surged, and the lights dimmed for a while. At the workplace, travel and tourism almost came to a screeching halt. But we steadily forged ahead, fully confident and ready to bet that life and the lights on Broadway wouldn’t be dark forever. The Big Apple was indomitable. She might be bruised but could never be beaten.
This wasn’t just any renovation. This was what our Director of Engineering, Bill Michell, coined a "generational transformation”. All hotel renovations are nuanced. Their approach is unique and considers different objectives and outcomes. Marriott, our owners, and our designers were focused on transforming this second home for me into something new and mighty. And that is exactly what they did. I could no longer contain my curiosity. Remote work or not, I visited the hotel to check in and see the progress of the work. I hope you enjoy some of the images that showcase the true magnitude and scale of what was accomplished.
time to move back in. The boxes that had been moved in March 2020 were caked in dust but ready to go, a stark metaphor for how most of us in the hospitality industry felt — 100% ready to go. As I unpacked both familiar and unfamiliar boxes, I discovered a treasure trove of artifacts from those who held my position before me. One 4-inch thick manila envelope contained a complete series of newsletters from 1984 to 1986, all in pristine condition. "The New York Scene" told the story of the soon-to-be-completed New York Marriott Marquis. It was a gem of a discovery and the inspiration for its revival, NYC/MQ.
As the work finished, it was time to begin planning our announcement to the world about what we did and invite them all back to a new travel experience. By this time, my old office had been fully renovated, and it was
So much has changed from 1985 when we opened our doors until now. But at the same time, so much has gone unchanged. We still crave experiences. We still cherish making memories of the experiences travel inherently gifts us. Simply said, the power of travel not only remains but thrives like the human spirit.
We hope this newsletter will inspire you to get on the road, plan a gathering, and experience something wonderful.
Matt Pizzimenti , Director of Sales & Marketing
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Introduction with Director of Sales & Marketing, Matthew Pizzimenti
The Story of Us, with Dan Nadeau Area General Manager
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A preview of our most transformative renovation - ever.
Hustle. Hear. Glamour. Grit. Surviving as a Broadway Actor when Broadway is Closed
How to Spend 72-Hours in NYC , by a native New Yorker
The Beetlesuite. The Beetlesuite. The Beetlesuite!
Ten Iconic Theater District Restaurants for a Perfect Night on Broadway
Spring into Summer - NYC and Hotel Activities and Events
There’s a distinct feeling you won’t experience anywhere else.
You’ll feel it when you first walk through the spacious, modern lobby, touch the button for your elevator and step in. You’ll look through the iconic glass elevators and see the New York Marriott Marquis’ expansive atrium for the first time.
And you’ll feel the same thing every visitor’s felt since we first opened our doors in 1985. A potent combination of wonder, excitement, and hope.
“I think it resonates with people,” said Daniel Nadeau, Area General Manager and General Manager of the New York Marriott Marquis. “People come to New York because of these experiences. And this hotel compliments the whole reason why they’re coming here.”
He’d know best. Nadeau was with the hotel on day one, when Times Square was far from the vibrant, bustling, business center it is today, and people would leave right after curtain call.
At that point in time, Nadeau was the hotel’s Director of Corporate Sales . He’s seen Times Square transform into the world’s most famous neighborhood first-hand.
“Mr. Marriott [Bill Marriott, Executive Chairman of Marriott International, Retired] and the original architect, John Portman, had a vision. They saw that Times Square
could be more than what it was and what it should be, Nadeau said. “They really just felt that a hotel… could be more than a hotel. It could bring in a sense of community and bring people to this area, who had never considered staying here..”
They were right. Nadeau first saw it when six months af ter opening he’d visit the top floor of the hotel and point out to customers the multiple development projects underway.
The New York Marriott Marquis quickly developed domes tic demand from leisure travel, business travel and large groups and conventions. Interna tional travel soon followed.
The hotel quickly became synonymous with New York City’s world-famous ball drop on New Year’s Eve. “We're right in the middle of it, we're right in the center of Times Square
Between West 45th and West 46th Streets,” Nadeau said. “We have a lot of rooms with ball drop views. It has been sort of an unof ficial headquarters.”
A hospitality experi ence for the neigh borhood’s biggest draw. A perfect fit.
As the saying goes, success is not an accident. So what helped make the New York Marriott Marquis into what it is today?
“The Marriott culture,” Nadeau said. “Taking care of our customers existed then. And it exists today. That value remains strong. I think that’s the secret sauce, so to speak, in our company. A culture that focuses on customers, employees and on consistency and fairness.
Care for people is core to the New York Marriott Marquis’ values. In a neighborhood that attracts more than 50 million visitors per year, hospitality is what sparked its incredible growth.
“That hasn’t changed at all,” Nadeau said.
So, what has changed?
The easier question might be
"What hasn't changed?"Grand Opening Locals, staff, and industry professionals gather around the Atrium for the opening ceremony and festivities
The future is bright. Nadeau believes the synergy of experiences, business and interest from event professionals will make the next years the best the neighborhood has ever had.
“To see it go from the environment I was in when I got here to what it is today, it's just unbelievable,” Nadeau said. “I still have very vivid memories of the first four or five years I was here at the hotel. And to come back and see the evolution that occurred in the market, and particularly at this property, has been really rewarding and interesting.”
“It gives me a lot of hope that if it can happen here, you can really do it anywhere.”
• Hidden under the 9th floor terrace is Revel & Rye Bar & Restaurant (R&R B&R) , our new velvet and gold-accented lobby bar, featuring elegant expressions of classic cocktails and a New York City inspired menu
• Manhattan’s first M Club Lounge
• Timeless and expansive event spaces, with state-of-the-art technology and fixtures
• The reborn Broadway Lounge, now with soaring floor to ceiling windows perfect for taking in NYC's contagious energy
Gather pre- and post-show, catch up with friends or enjoy a leisurely meal under the bustling lights of Broadway. A small taste of a big New York experience, Broadway Lounge offers a go-to space for clinking glasses, sharing bites and celebrating in the center of it all.
•All-new energy-efficient Ballroom chandeliers and lighting throughout all event spaces.
•New air walls, wall-coverings, art, and custom carpet reminiscent of overlapping starbursts and kaleidoscopes.
•More tech; rigging points, upgraded audio, and the addition of a non-terrestrial circuit adding even more redundancy to our existing 3 gigs of bandwidth.
• The Terrace , an expanded event space connecting the two adjacent meeting spaces via break-away doors. The space features streetlamp-inspired lighting, white and beige oversized porcelain tile and birds-eye views of The Great White Way.
Westside ballroom
Our second-largest ballroom at 21,550 sq.ft. is complete with airwalls that make it one of our most customizable meeting spaces for a modern experience that fits your meeting
You need a space that puts your business at centerstage. A leading venue, every inch of the New York Marriott Marquis’ 100,000 square-feet of dedicated events space is designed to bring your meeting or convention to life.
Modern and spacious accommodations with a personal touch is what we do best. Our six floors of ballrooms and event spaces—connected by 18 double-width escalators and our state-of-the-art elevator system—feature brand-new airwalls, tables, and chairs that are easily adaptable to virtually any floor plan; while our onsite AV team, dedicated events manager, and elevated food and beverage program are here to make your meeting go flawlessly.
Your vacation is a time to relax, recharge, and become reinspired. At the New York Marriott Marquis, our spacious rooms are your personal slice of the city: an inspiring space to enliven your soul, celebrate your spirit, and connect with your inner calm.
With stylish and modern design, relaxing neutral tones, and thoughtful amenities; each room gives you a luxurious sense of sanctuary. And with a perfect balance of peace, quiet, and exciting views of Broadway, Times Square, and the Manhattan skyline, you’ll be swept away in a quintessentially New York experience.
• All 1971 guest rooms and suites have been fully renovated. Designer Sawyer & Company drew inspiration for the guest room renovation from elements of Times Square, incorporating a calm neutral palette accented by bright colors that represent the color and complexity of Times Square.
• All suites have been fully transformed, including the hotel's three Presidential Suites and the iconic J.W. Marriott Duplex Suite.
FERGIE L. PHILIPPE, HERCULES MULLIGAN AND JAMES MADISON IN HAMILTON
Now that Broadway’s getting back in full swing, Times Square is in its prime for the brightest lights and most contagious energy it’s seen in years. Whether you’re daydreaming about seeing your next Broadway show or booking your stay with us to be on Broadway’s doorstep, you’re likely as excited as us.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ACTOR? WHAT DREW YOU TO BROADWAY OVER OTHER OPTIONS?
Most of it was Sesame Street or the Muppets. Jim Henson was and still is to this day my biggest inspiration.
DID YOU FIND OTHER WAYS TO ACT DURING THE PANDEMIC? IF SO, WHAT?
Oh absolutely. A number of friends and I are all writers so we had many readings of our works. I also worked extensively with Broadway Plus, joining corporate groups, meetings, and events for concerts and Q&A’s. It was a really great way to connect with fans and entertain those who needed it the most while we were all sitting around. I was very grateful to them for the additional source of income too!
NOW THAT THINGS ARE STARTING TO GO BACK TO NORMAL, WHAT DO YOU LOOK FORWARD TO THE MOST? WHY?
I cannot wait until we get the official okay to interact with the audience after the show again. I have really missed being able to hug and take pictures with the wonderful people who come to see us in Hamilton.
WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU SHARE WITH VISITORS TO GET THE BEST POSSIBLE BROADWAY EXPERIENCE?
We are exploring a moment of different artists and playwrights from all types of backgrounds who are finally receiving the access to Broadway that they have long deserved and we need to support them. Obviously, come see your favorite shows but also please go see a new show.
Visit fergiephillipe.com to for performing and coaching inquiries.
Broadway Plus provides official virtual and in-person VIP experiences for Broadway. From customized corporate meeting entertainment to bespoke events and group tickets, we have a Broadway experience that's just right for you. Since 2016, we've used our years of expertise and exclusive partnerships with Broadway's biggest stars and productions to bring you unforgettable memories again and again. We are proud to represent hundreds of incredibly talented artists, both virtually and in-person.
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I have really missed being able to hug and take pictures with the wonderful people who come to see us in Hamilton.
MICHAEL LEE BROWN, CONNOR MURPHY, AND JARED KLEINMAN IN DEAR EVAN HANSEN
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ACTOR? WHAT DREW YOU TO BROADWAY OVER OTHER OPTIONS?
Both my brother and sister were both very much involved in the arts from a young age. My brother was more on the music side, and my sister was more on the dancing side. I think what inspired me about Broadway was that you could sing, act and dance in one show.
WHAT WERE THE EARLY DAYS OF THE PANDEMIC LIKE FOR YOU?
Everyone always talks about the arts as being something that there’s a lot of uncertainty involved with, which is both exciting but can be unnerving at times. You really got to love it. But getting into the pandemic, it was a whole different kind of uncertainty. It taught me to be present.
WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU SHARE WITH VISITORS TO GET THE BEST POSSIBLE BROADWAY EXPERIENCE?
I think it’s fun to see shows that you know nothing about. But then it’s also fun to go see shows again that you have seen a bunch of times. I would go once a year to see Phantom of the Opera and see a different perspective on the performance.
DO YOU HAVE A “MARQUIS MOMENT” OR STRONG MEMORY ASSOCIATED WITH THE MARRIOTT MARQUIS?
Marriott Marquis was always a good place for me to hang out in the lobby in between lessons and things. A lot of my friends would go and hang out there at that lobby in between shows. The lobby has kind of been like a center for the theater community.
Visit michaelleebrown.com for performing and coaching inquiries. Michael’s music is available on all streaming services
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The lobby has kind of been like a center for the theater community.
How to spend 72 hours in New York City, by a native New Yorker. There are a thousand New York Citys and a different version for everyone who comes here but there's no better way to experience New York City than through the eyes of a local. We went to our resident expert, life-long New Yorker, and M Club Concierge, Michael Bongiardino, to get his look on a perfect June 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.
Walk a couple blocks to the Morgan Library. A private collection with varied art and artifacts going back to 4000 B.C., there’s something for anyone in its 20 unique rooms.
Don’t miss The Polonsky Exhibition of New York Public Library’s Treasures at the NYPL for some of the world’s most interesting treasures.
See a show! If Broadway isn’t your cup of tea, check out Jazz Standard for live music or Caroline’s on Broadway for stand-up. Get pre-show drinks and dinner at Broadway Lounge.
Head over to Grand Central Station. You can’t miss out on sneaking messages through the acoustics at The Whispering Gallery while you’re there.
Across the street is The Chrysler Building, featuring enough eye-popping Art Deco architecture, art and lights to make your IG stories pop.
Tour Central Park by bike. Locals and tourists alike swear by the bike trail for Manhattan’s most beautiful nature. You can also rent a row boat, too.
Rest up and relax (you can always order room service). You’ve earned it.
Visit the Edge at Hudson Yards for the tallest openair views New York has to offer. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself bragging on social media.
Walk over to the High Line for splendid views, expansive gardens and interesting public installations. And there are plenty of great spots to eat along the way. When you’re ready to call it a day, grab a nightcap at Perch outdoor terraces for an unparalleled view of Times Square.
The Tony Award-nominated production premiered on April 8th at our state-of-the-art Marquis Theater, located on the third floor of the hotel.
To celebrate, we partnered with the creative team behind BEETLEJUICE on Broadway to create a special Beetlejuice-themed guest room for its biggest fans! It features a luxe king-sized bed, welcome gift and picturesque view of Times Square.
The creative team captured Tim Burton’s iconic aesthetic with stripes and sandworms galore! In their review of the musical, Entertainment Weekly called the show, “A feast for the eyes and soul!” and The New York Times declared it, “A jaw-dropping funhouse.” This suite is like stepping inside of that strange and unusual world.
Like the show’s set, the suite is covered in surprises that fans of the film and musical will instantly recognize… a polaroid camera for the gothy photogs, The Handbook for the Recently Deceased, and more! Plus, there are behind-the-scenes (or, behind-the-screams) photos and tons of selfie-worthy moments! Book your stay now by visiting https://promos.marriott.com/ NYCMQ/ghost-with-the-most
Imagine a night so special, the bright lights and big stage were a footnote.
It’s not just possible. It’s well within your reach.
The energy, creativity and talent that defines Broadway defines the Theater District’s culinary scene, too. And whether you’re looking for stiff cocktails and delicious bites pre-show, a throwback to the Golden Age, or both (with a stunning view), an exceptional restaurant experience is only a short walk — or an elevator — away.
From Times Square institutions and world-famous reservations to the places where your favorite actors eat and drink, these ten restaurants can turn your night out on Broadway into a memory that lasts a lifetime.
JOE ALLEN
Since 1965, Joe Allen’s has been a go-to for the Broadway community for very good reason. Who doesn’t love timeless American dishes and drinks served in a neighborhood atmosphere?
326 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
www.joeallenrestaurant.com
BROADWAY LOUNGE
Draped by floor-to-ceiling windows and overlooking Times Square is our very own Broadway Lounge. With classic dishes done right, perfectly crafted cocktails and a warm balance of nostalgia and a modern touch, Broadway Lounge is a quintessentially New York experience.
Broadway Lounge features Perch outdoor terraces, offering an Instagrammable spot 8 stories above Times Square to your night. Elevate your evening from the comfort of our hotel. Book your table today.
8th Floor of the New York Marriott Marquis
Open Daily: Dinner 5PM-12AM, Bar 11:30AM-1AM
Speak with Front Desk or call (212) 704-8834 | broadwaylounge.nyc
SARDI’S
People flock to Sardi’s for its famous celebrity caricatures and classic energy. But they come back for the seasoned hospitality, delicious old-world cuisine and a brush with the stars.
234 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
http://www.sardis.com
VICTOR’S CAFE
Family owned since the early 60’s, Victor’s Cafe planted Cuban cuisine as a staple of Times Square. And with outdoor dining and live music, you’ll feel like you’re in the heyday of Havana.
236 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
https://victorscafe.com/
GALLAGHERS STEAKHOUSE
Gallaghers has set the tone for steakhouses for over 90 years. Hickory-grilled USDA Prime dry-aged cuts. A fresh raw bar. Mouthwatering sides. And most of all, impeccable service.
228 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
https://www.gallaghersnysteakhouse.com/
Le Bernardin
Since 1986, Le Bernardin has been preparing the freshest seafood with the simple philosophy that the fish is the star of the plate.
Want to go all out? Experience Chef Eric Ripert’s celebrated ode to French seafood. But with decades of delighting guests and three Michelin stars, be prepared to book months ahead.
153 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019
http://www.le-bernardinprive.com/
BAR
Hidden in a brownstone, Bar Centrale is the spot where the stars go to get away. But it’s not just the low-key environment. It's the top-shelf small plates, tasteful wine list and craft cocktails, too.
324 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
http://www.barcentrale.nyc/
BOND 45
Neon signs and art deco decor punctuate Bond 45, a lively locale for those who want to feel like they’re in the Roaring 20’s on their night out. Vegetarians will love their rotating antipasto.
221 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
http://www.bond45ny.com/
GLASS HOUSE TAVERN
You’ll be hard-pressed to find an actor, director or stagehand who doesn’t frequent Glass House Tavern. A solid spot for casual bar fare pre-show, it’s the Broadway industry hangout post-show.
52 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
http://www.glasshousetavern.com/
CARMINE’S
Every night feels like an event at Carmine’s, the neighborhood spot for family style Italian. With hearty portions and a celebratory vibe, you’ll hum Dean Martin’s version of “Volare” for days.
200 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
https://www.carminesnyc.com/locations/times-square
Celebrate in the center of it all
Looking for a culinary experience as magical as it is mouth-watering? You’re in luck. Reserve tickets for a brand new magical experience. Enjoy a New York inspired menu in Revel & Rye Bar & Restaurant or Broadway Lounge followed by an intimate performance by renowned Mentalist and Illusionist Ken Salaz.
THE BEETY
What’s better than Beetlejuice back on Broadway? A cocktail to go with it. You can now order a special Beetlejuice-inspired cocktail at Revel & Rye and Broadway Lounge. So you can catch the show and toast its return. Visit our restaurants to order the exclusive cocktail: The Beety.
Visit OpenTable for reservations
All month long in June, we're offering a special Pride cocktail in Revel & Rye and Broadway Lounge. "Love is Love" is a delicious blend of watermelon puree, lime juice, vodka and ginger beer complete with a tasty watermelon popsicle. Enjoy this refreshing beverage under the bustling lights on Broadway or on our outdoor terrace, Perch.
Book a reservation now at broadwaylounge.nyc.
Enjoy live music every Wednesday evening in the Broadway Lounge. Be delighted by a jazzy ensemble while savoring a delicious meal and a signature cocktail alongside floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Times Square. Upcoming performances include:
June 8th - Nicole Zuraitis (Instagram: @nicolezmusic)
June 15th - Nicole Zuraitis (Instagram: @nicolezmusic)
June 22nd - Emily Braden (Instagram: @songbody)
June 29th - Fleure Seule (Instagram: @fleurseule)
Visit OpenTable for reservations
SPRING AND SUMMER 2022
Celebrate in the center of it all
A captivating new dining experience 47 floors above Broadway in The View Restaurant. Le Petit Chef blends cutting edge technology with world class dining to immerse and entertain all the senses. Using Skullmapping technology, a tiny animated chef prepares a 4-course meal right in front of your eyes.
This culinary adventure pairs whimsical, engaging animation with enticing dishes, showcasing the story behind each course in a unique presentation that amazes and delights.
Visit TheViewNYC.com for more information or to book a reservation.
1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
www.marriott.com/nycmq
P:212-398-1000
