Business & Tech

Newly Renovated Historic Surrey Hotel Reopens On Upper East Side

Built in 1926 as a residence hotel, the original Surrey hosted celebrities such as JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert.

Built in 1926 as a residence hotel, the original Surrey hosted celebrities such as JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert.
Built in 1926 as a residence hotel, the original Surrey hosted celebrities such as JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert. (Google Maps)

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — A ritzy, five-star Upper East Side hotel with historic roots is reopening at the end of the summer.

Originally constructed in 1926 as a residence hotel, The Surrey, positioned at the corner of East 76th Street and Madison Avenue, has hosted a multitude of celebrities, creatives, and world leaders over the years, such as JFK, Bette Davis and Claudette Colbert.

In late 2020, the 16-story hotel was acquired by private investment firm Reuben Brothers, owned by billionaire brothers Simon and David Reuben.

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The brothers purchased the bankrupt Surrey Hotel, a 95-year-old Upper East Side icon that housed celebrity chef Daniel Boulud's Café Boulud, for $150 million.

Since then, it has undergone an extensive renovation and rebranding as the Surrey, a Corinthia Hotel.

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The redesigned space now features 70 guest rooms, 30 suites, and 14 residences, all inspired by the hotel's rich history and its surroundings. Specifically, four signature suites draw inspiration from the bridges of Central Park.

The interior redesign is being overseen by Martin Brudnizki, the award-winning firm responsible for iconic New York hotels such as The Beekman, The Fifth Avenue Hotel and Hotel Fouquet's New York.

Starting on the 11th floor, there will be a total of 14 bespoke apartments available for purchase, ranging from two-bedroom and three-bedroom layouts to one swanky duplex penthouse, officials said.

The popular Miami Beach Italian restaurant Casa Tua is set to open its first New York location at the hotel. Hotel officials say Casa Tua will offer guests vibrant spaces, including a restaurant, bar, and a private members' club on the second floor.

Reservations are now available on the hotel's website for stays starting Sept. 1, 2024, with room rates starting at $1,200 per night.

"This much anticipated opening allows us to bring to New York our commitment to luxury, elegance, and exceptional service with the brand’s first property in North America," Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels, said. "We look forward to welcoming guests to experience the timeless charm and refined sophistication of The Surrey, an iconic Upper East Side establishment."


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