Reborn in Midtown: Prince Kitano New York revives Japanese elegance

The Prince Kitano New York — the Big Apple’s first Japanese-owned hotel — reopened its doors in December after a thoughtful, years-long renovation that breathed new life into the historic inn.

The esteemed hotel, first established as The Kitano Hotel New York in 1973, now combines its storied heritage with a fresh, contemporary aesthetic. This revitalization brings an elevated experience to the heart of Midtown Manhattan, promising guests a harmonious retreat from the bustling city — with a unique Japanese touch.

Located at 66 Park Avenue, The Prince Kitano New York boasts 150 redesigned accommodations. Each room offers a tranquil escape with elegant Dark Emperador stone finishes, hair-on-hide leather upholstery and rice paper accents. In its lobby, guests are welcomed to the Prince Kitano New York with traditional Japanese florals and tablescapes, and a row of wall clocks displaying the current time in Tokyo, New York and London.

These small but thoughtful touches blend seamlessly with the hotel’s Japanese-inspired design, creating an ambiance of serenity, just blocks from bustling Grand Central Station and against the backdrop of one of Manhattan’s busiest areas.

“In 1964, Tsuguto Kitano was involved in the construction of the Japan Pavilion at the World Expo in New York and discovered the challenges of becoming accustomed to a foreign counties culture while traveling,” Peter Yeung, general manager at The Prince Kitano New York told amNewYork Metro. “This led to his creation of the ‘Hotel Kitano,’ a project designed to spread the concept of Japanese hospitality across the world and reduce the distance between countries for domestic and international travelers alike. The hotel has most recently joined the Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts Group, undergoing a renovation and rebranding as The Prince Kitano, and continues the hotel’s legacy, bringing Japanese hospitality to New York City.”

The Deluxe Premiere King room at the Prince Kitano New York.Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts

The Deluxe Jr. Suite King room at the Prince Kitano New York.Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts

Dining options at The Prince Kitano New York cater to diverse tastes. On the lowest level, the hotel’s renowned hakubai restaurant showcases exquisite kaiseki cuisine — a refined and traditional Japanese culinary experience.

The art of kaiseki cuisine dates back to the 16th century, originally emerging as a part of the Japanese tea ceremony. This style of dining evolved under the influence of Sen no Rikyu, a renowned tea master who sought to create a humble, yet exquisite meal to accompany the tea ceremony.

At hakubai, the dining experience boasts 11 exciting courses (or, if you fall in love with one particular dish, you can order from the restaurant’s a la carte menu). The hotel restaurant celebrates what began as a way to balance tea’s flavors with small, simple dishes by doing just that — in turn celebrating the historic simplicity of The Prince Kitano itself.

The restaurant is brought to life by an expert chef team specially brought in from Japan, who transform the finest seasonal ingredients into an artful expression of cultural flavors and techniques. The multi-course meals at hakubai offer a sophisticated and unique dining experience for guests.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, hakubai will host a special event on Sunday, May 12. The restaurant will feature an exclusive Mother’s Day menu, thoughtfully crafted by the chef team, highlighting the best seasonal ingredients and the artistry of kaiseki cuisine. This selection — beginning with a glass of champagne or a mocktail, and including such delicacies as A5 wagyu beef, sashimi and more — offers a perfect opportunity for families to honor and celebrate the important women in their lives through an extraordinary dining experience.

Hakubai.Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts

But the elegance doesn’t end in the Prince Kitano’s lower chamber.

Atop the hotel is Roof at 66 Park, a stunning rooftop bar where patrons can sip on signature cocktails while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. This elegant space offers a perfect setting for unwinding or celebrating special occasions. The menu at Roof at 66 Park also pays homage to the hotel’s Japanese roots, with items such as potstickers, and wagyu beef cocktail frankfurters.

Roof at 66 Park.Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts

The view from the Prince Kitano New York’s rooftop.Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts

The hotel’s breakfast also boasts traditional Japanese cuisine, transporting guests nearly 6,800 miles away in their minds.

For reservations and further information, visit kitano.princehotels.com .