New York City’s Financial District bustles during the day but it’s a bit quieter on weekends. Typically, it wouldn’t be the first neighborhood I’d recommend for tourists visiting Manhattan to book a stay. But a recent visit to The Beekman has certainly shifted my perspective.
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel, is nothing short of a lower-Manhattan oasis serving up main character energy to guests who dream of their own story set in a classy, New York-based plot.
The location exudes luxe, with a nine-story Victorian atrium serving as a characterizing feature for the property. Just one upwards glance steps into my arrival warranted an internal “wow.”
Built between 1881 and 1883, the structure was designed to reflect the Queen Anne style by architect James M. Farnsworth, mirroring another building in London. The Beekman was restored ahead of its opening in 2016 by Randolph Gerner from Gerner Kronick + Valcarcel Architects and Martin Brudnizki Design Studio.
And the site had historical and cultural significance before the building was composed — with theater performances, academic achievements and more taking place on the site, which is not hard to envision sitting inside the intricate halls today.
The hotel has 287 rooms including 35 suites and two penthouses nestled into The Beekman’s turrets that are accompanied by private terraces that overlook Manhattan with views of the One World Trade Center, City Hall Park and the Woolworth Building.
The rooms are comfortable and well decorated, striking a unique balance as homey yet sexy spaces, perfect for a weekend away. And the setups vary running from a “Queen Bed” room all the way up to a “Turret Penthouse” with varying room layouts in between, including “Terrace King,” “Studio Suite,” “Thompson Suite” — the list goes on. Each room is priced according to its tier. Rates start between $399 per night and $3,399 per night. Bathrooms include stunning rain showers and Carrara marble tiling.
Amenities add another level of richness to the experience. The Beekman has partnered with perfume brand D.S. & Durga to create a signature scent exclusive to the hotel that is not only incorporated in its body lotion and soaps but evident in the air, too.
The Beekman isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a landmark on the Manhattan dining scene, too, with on-property locations opened by James Beard Award-winning chefs.
Tom Colicchio’s Temple Court lives in the hotel as its signature restaurant paired with The Bar Room — which is a stop worthwhile for any visitor whether or not they’re staying at the hotel. The menu features delicious cocktails in a dimly lit room, ideal for a nightcap or a full night of gathering.
And Daniel Buloud’s Le Gratin, Bouchon Lyonnais — which is an absolute delight — is located on the premises, too and is perfect for a late night dinner shared with a significant other or friends. If you stop in for brunch, be sure to order the Poireaux Vinaigrette. The Oeufs Brouillés à la Truffe Noire is another dish that turns eggs near delicacy. Along with a glass of champagne, the brunch at Le Gratin is simply perfect to kick off a relaxed Saturday.
And while the restaurants may close their doors, the option to order doesn’t cease entirely. Guests at The Beekman have the option to order Tom Colicchio’s Crafted Hospitality to their room 24 hours a day.
The Beekman made me feel as though I was on a getaway vacation even though I was just 20 minutes from my apartment. Weeks later, I’m dreaming of another chance to envelop myself in the building’s beautiful spaces and nearby experiences for the perfect escape.
Top Takeaways
Location: New York City, New York (Financial District)
Star-Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Posh meets cool in New York City’s Financial District.
Our Favorite Thing About the hotel? The architecture — The Beekman isn’t a hotel to rest your eyes for an evening or two, it’s a destination in itself. The hotel, restored less than a decade ago, features intricate details like its skylight and nine-story atrium featuring Victorian cast iron railings and balustrades with cast iron dragon-shaped brackets.
Food + Drink: The Beekman is home to two full restaurants, a bar and 24/7 room service. Temple Court by Tom Colicchio boasts mouth-watering entrée choices like White Asparagus “Cacio e Pepe,” Diver Scallops, Roasted Chicken and more. Temple Court exists alongside The Bar Room which offers divine cocktails in a library-esque environment that maintains a lavish feel. And Daniel Boulud’s Le Gratin next door serves up fare that nods to Boulud’s hometown, Lyon, in an elaborate space.
Any Neighborhood Recs?: Lower Manhattan is filled with great restaurants and attractions – so it’s hard to narrow down to just a few. Steps from The Beekman is the Brooklyn Bridge, an iconic New York attraction that is definitely worth walking day or night. Hall des Lumières is nearby, too, a great addition to any visitor’s schedule. And as for food, Kesté Pizza & Vino is a casual and fun option and a sure crowd pleaser. And in nearby Seaport is Barbalu at 225 Front Street serving delicious elevated Italian fare. If you’re in the mood for variety, Tin Building by Jean-Georges is just a bit closer to the water and is filled with plenty of options for dining, drinking and some shopping, too.
Amenities: Room service, on-property dining locations, complimentary turndown service in the evening, Les Clefs d’Or concierge service, two-level gym with Peloton bikes, complimentary WiFi, in-room safe and more.
What’s Nearby?: Brooklyn Bridge, City Hall Park, Seaport, Santiago Calatrava’s Oculus, World Trade Center, Brookfield Place.
Rooms: 287 rooms
Pricing: Rates start at $399/night
Closest Airport: Newark Liberty International Airport, LaGuardia Airport
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