Fitzpatrick Grand Central in a Nutshell :
Fitzpatrick Grand Central and its sister location, Fitzpatrick Manhattan (about fifteen blocks north), are the only Irish-operated and -run hotels in New York. From the classic Irish breakfast served in the Wheeltapper Pub to the book of ancient Irish legends tucked next to Gideon’s bible in a bedside-table drawer, the establishment teams with the heritage of one of New York’s most historic cultural groups.
Guest Rooms at Fitzpatrick Grand Central :
The 155 guest rooms are decorated in a classic old-world style: dark wooden tables, gilded lamps and mirrors, cream and pale-blue upholstery. Dainty canopies back the beds in most rooms, lending an air of grandeur.
A four-star hotel, Fitzpatrick is not significantly less expensive than some of its trendy, upscale Midtown competitors, but the rooms are much larger. The penthouse and the six junior suites, named after artistic Irish personages such as Frank McCourt and Roma Downey, also feature sitting areas, and all rooms are outfitted with a cable TV, bathrobes and a trouser press.
Dining at Fitzpatrick Grand Central :
Thanks in part to its large outdoor deck, the Wheeltapper Pub is a happy-hour hot spot for Midtown’s business sector. In addition to a full bar, including pints of popular U.K. beers such as Smithwicks, the restaurant serves upscale pub food: Fish and chips and shepherd’s pie sit alongside chicken Milanese and filet mignon on the menu.
Meat eaters would be remiss not to start the day with a classic Irish breakfast—complete with blood sausage. The dish is available for lunch and dinner, too.
Honeymoons/Romance Packages at Fitzpatrick Grand Central :
With its outdoor terrace, large mirrored bathtub, and dual-headed glass-enclosed shower, the Penthouse suite, named after actor Liam Neeson, is the most romantic spot on the property. Up the ante with the hotel’s Roses and Romance package: Guests are greeted by a dozen roses and, shortly after check-in, receive a delivery of Champagne, and strawberries with cream. The hotel’s quaint size can’t compete with Midtown’s towers, so there isn’t much of a view on the deck, but the cushioned lounge chairs offer a cozy respite nonetheless.
Brides and Grooms at Fitzpatrick Grand Central :
Fitzpatrick has no space large enough to host a wedding, but does offer accommodation packages, including a suite upgrade for the bride and groom, and a special rate on limousine services.
Nearby Fitzpatrick Grand Central :
When it comes to activities, Fitzpatrick Grand Central’s appeal is not in its spa or game room—the property has neither—but in its location. In addition to the shopping, restaurants and museums of Midtown, two of New York’s most enduring romantic icons are short walks away: the observation deck of the Empire State Building and a carriage ride in Central Park.
What Could be Improved at Fitzpatrick Grand Central?:
Fitzpatrick Grand Central is not in a new building. Although this gives one the feeling of being in old New York, it also means that the hotel must deal with wear and tear. During my stay, the establishment ran into a problem with its hot-water boiler. Service was resumed quickly, but it was an unfortunate circumstance.
Is the Fitzpatrick Grand Central Right for You? :
Those looking to stay in midtown Manhattan without cramming into a closet-size guest room—or taking out another mortgage for something bigger—will find what they need at Fitzpatrick Grand Central. The classic design and laid-back atmosphere are also likely to attract older couples. And, of course, if you’re Irish or Ireland-obsessed, you’ll consider finding this place a stroke of luck indeed.
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