all the dish that’s fit to print
park hyatt puts spring in your step
Despite the onslaught of ‘Snowmaggedon’ this week, D.C. will surely thaw out in time for the National Cherry Blossom Festival at the end of March! The breathtaking scene around the Tidal Basin is rumored to coax a smile from even the most steel-hearted of lobbyists.
Spring in D.C. (before the swampy summer sets in) is perfect for the obligatory sightseeing tour of our nation’s capital. With Park Hyatt Washington as your home base, it’s easy to explore everything, from the monuments and museums, to galleries and boutique shops. Book the hotel’s annual Spring Blossom Package available from March 5-April 25.
Take advantage of an upgrade to a Park Deluxe room, a pot of Cherry Blossom Green Tea from the hotel’s Tea Cellar, choice of valet parking or continental breakfast for two, and a backpack for the kids filled with lots of sightseeing goodies!
Package rates start at $349 plus tax. Maximum occupancy for guestrooms is three people. Guests can reserve the package and a second room for children 16 years and under for an additional $75 a night.
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february is national pancake month!
While the rest of America is busy gearing up for Valentine’s Day, AMPR is holding off on candy hearts and celebrating the start of National Pancake Month! Flapjacks, silver dollars, griddle backs, or just plain pancakes. Whatever you call them, get in the spirit with a steaming, stacked plate at one of these happening locales. You’ll find everything from simple buttermilk pancakes with syrup, to an edgier order featuring poached pineapple and vanilla yogurt. Dig in!
Just in time for Pancake Month, TOPPER’S restaurant at The Wauwinet is now serving breakfast to all of Nantucket! Order up a plate of Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes and a side of Apple Smoked Bacon from their À la Carte Breakfast Menu. Or stop by the White Elephant’s Brant Point Grill for buttermilk pancakes with soft vanilla butter, Vermont maple syrup, and a sweet Nantucket-y classic – cranberries!
Be first in line for breakfast at Andaz Wall Street’s new restaurant Wall & Water. Go on and overdo it with pancakes smothered in whipped cream, berries, and maple syrup. (After all, you can start your diet tomorrow instead, right?)
There’s nothing quite like a long breakfast spent basking in the Caribbean sunshine. Find it at Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos, where you can choose buttermilk pancakes topped with maple syrup and Vermont butter or with poached pineapple, blueberries, and vanilla-scented yogurt on the hotel’s Terrace. Overdose on pancakes the first day? Enjoy healthy alternatives from the COMO Shambhala menu, including homemade muesli and energy smoothies.
A hearty morning meal is the perfect fuel for a brisk day out on the ski slopes. Try Park Hyatt Beaver Creek’s fluffy buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup at their 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill. Still hungry? No shame in seconds! Get your daily dose of protein with the organic three-egg omelet and roasted fingerling potatoes.
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concierge secrets: istanbul
Want to know what and where is hot in Istanbul? Brad Johnson of Modern Luxury checks in with the concierge at Park Hyatt Istanbul–Maçka Palas to find out…
Helene Dubreucq is a concierge at Park Hyatt Istanbul–Maçka Palas, and she is quite possibly the best in the city. She speaks six languages with ease and has the inside track on what’s hip and what’s just posing as such. On a recent visit to the hotel, she saved the day and got us to the airport in world-record time when our original private driver turned out to be a snake oil salesman. The Park Hyatt’s new steakhouse, The Prime, serves the city’s best steak and pours superb, locally sourced wines (who knew?). But when we weren’t eating in the hotel or lounging poolside with a cocktail in hand, Helene totally hooked us up with killer reservations, nightlife suggestions and shopping advice.
So, we’ve come back to Helene to find out what’s on her radar at the moment:
Q: What’s the hottest restaurant in Istanbul right now?
A: Lipsi. It opens only in wintertime, and it’s just a short walk from the hotel. You can enjoy special cocktails made of ”raki” (an anise-flavored local aperitif) in the lounge (red wallpaper, dimly lit, lots of candles). My favorite cocktail is the Rakito. Lipsi has the best mezze in town. The atmosphere is great. Hot, really. (It’s from the same team that owns Topaz, an amazing dinner spot overlooking the Bosporus). The staff makes you feel like you’re at home. The place is designed in a cozy tavern style, and they play live modern Greek and Turkish music on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and Traditional Turkish music on Mondays. On the weekends, you’ll hear the city’s top DJs.
Q: Istanbul is renowned for its leather goods. What’s your favorite shop?
A: We are located in the best neighborhood for shopping. I recommend two leather specialists: Koc, for classical cuts, and Punto, for up-to-date fashion. They are both walking distance to the hotel and offer leather and fur. I like that Punto offers the possibility to create a bespoke handbag to your own specifications.
Q: I’m looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path nightlife experience. Where would you send me?
A: You should go to the Asmalimescit district, near the Tünel (subway station), at the very end of 2 km long pedestrian-only Istiklal Avenue, about 15 minutes from the hotel by taxi. This neighborhood is full of life. In the daytime, you love it for its shops and designer galleries. But at night, it comes alive with its countless restaurants and bars, and this is where you can listen to great live music.
Q: I’m a hopeless romantic. Where would you send me for the perfect date night in Istanbul?
A: For the perfect date, I would advise Mikla Restaurant, which offers amazing modern Turkish cuisine. It’s perched on the top of the Marmara Pera hotel, and the view of the Golden Horn overlooking the Marmara Sea is breathtaking.
Q: I want to experience Istanbul’s art scene and see the work of emerging artists. What gallery or museum should be tops on my list?
A: The Istanbul Modern is located next to the water-pipe cafes on the docks, and it’s a must visit. They currently have a very important exhibition of emerging artists. And you can have a great lunch at the museum, with a great view of the Bosporus. Also, Proje 4L/Elgiz is a private collection museum that’s worth a look. For galleries, you should consider X-ist, 44A and Mac Gallery. All promote the brightest new talent, and all are within walking distance from the hotel.
the magic of the holidays at park hyatt zurich
“Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree, Thy leaves are so unchanging.” Not true at Park Hyatt Zurich this season when the hotel lobby’s decorative evergreen becomes a “Wish Tree” in support of the local Children’s Spitex Canton Zurich foundation (Kispex) – an organization that helps sick children access outpatient care so that they might live in the comfort of their homes.
In addition to the typical trimmings of ornamental balls and garlands, a variety of colorful handmade red stars are sparkling on the tree’s boughs. Kids of Park Hyatt Zurich employees have tapped into their artistic energy and decked out one side of these stars with festive coloring. The other side has a brief description of Kispex.
From now until Christmas, guests of the hotel may select a star from the tree and choose to make a monetary donation to Kispex at the front desk. And in the true spirit of the season, Park Hyatt will collect all of the donations, double them, and give the total amount to the organization.
Pick up a star and make a holiday wish come true during your next visit to Switzerland!
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spafinder’s 2009 readers’ choice awards
A quick kudos to all spas awarded honors in SpaFinder’s 2009 Readers’ Choice Awards, including the following spas that we are proud to work with. Congratulations! (more…)
british airways rolls out seasonal savings
The world is on sale. Well, parts of it, that is. Thanks to British Airways’ latest World Sale offer, globetrotters can now book flights throughout Europe and the Middle East for a recession-friendly price.
One-way airfare from New York to London is now only $229 – the perfect excuse to bunk up at Andaz Wall Street in New York (opening in January 2010) and then jet set to the Metropolitan London just in time for Afternoon De-Light tea at the Met Bar. How about D.C. to Paris for only $243? Slumber in a luxe Park Suite at Park Hyatt Washington and then hop a flight to Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme for a sumptuous dinner at Pur’.
The offer applies to travel through March 28 (excluding December 21 – 23). Make sure to book from November 11 – 19 or the normal fares will apply.
Travelers must also satisfy the following to qualify for the deal:
- Book at least 7 days prior to the departure days
- Fly in both directions on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday
- Stay over a Saturday night and stay no longer than 11 months
- No ticket cancellations
oh tidings of comfort and joy at park hyatt washington
Head to our nation’s capital and book a cozy holiday getaway with the Comfort & Joy Winter Package at Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
Enjoy a complimentary upgrade to a Park Deluxe room, where guests can spend a frosty evening snuggled up under a fluffy down comforter. Before lights out, chase away the chill in your bones and settle in to a steaming hot bath in the Park Deluxe spa-inspired bathroom.
Then savor the flavors of a revitalizing pot of tea from the hotel’s famously unique Tea Cellar. Boasting more than 50 rare teas from regions of China, Japan, Sri Lanka, and the Himalayas, the Tea Cellar is sure to please anyone in need of a soothing night-cap. If the kids are in tow – or you’re craving something a bit sweeter – ask for a complimentary pot of rich hot cocoa and a batch of freshly baked cookies.
As for the best part? There’s no need to worry about getting to bed early – check-out time for this special seasonal package is pushed back until 4 p.m. for a little extra hibernation.
The offer is available from November 29, 2009 through February 28, 2010. Rates start at $349 per room.
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v-day vacays for couples and singles
LOVE to get away? In 2010, Valentine’s Day and President’s Day coincide, so take your partner or your posse on a trip without using all of your vacation days! It’s never to early to start planning a “True Love Tryst” or a “Singles Escape!”
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on the road again with park hyatt’s fall-friendly offerings
There’s a tell-tale bite to the wind and a leafy crunch underfoot, which means that autumn is right around the corner. So load up the car, breathe in that crisp air, and embark on an All-American road trip to delight in the season’s brilliant fall foliage – and Park Hyatt’s latest offers.
1. Guests will give thanks for the Park Hyatt Washington’s An American Harvest package, available now through November 29. Enjoy an upgrade to a Park Deluxe room, featuring spa-inspired limestone rain showers and deep soaking tubs. Then quiet that rumbling tummy with a complimentary signature apple pie from the hotel’s award-winning Blue Duck Tavern while cozying up and sipping on a seasonal beverage in the hotel’s Lounge. Who could resist an Apple Cinnamon Martini from the new fall cocktail menu? Prices for the package start at $309 per room, plus tax.
Don’t miss out on the Blue Duck Tavern’s Thanksgiving brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on November 26. The prix fixe, three-course menu is $85 per person (only $42.50 for children ages 6-12, and complimentary for kids under six). An á la carte Thanksgiving dinner will also be available from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
2. Think pink at the Park Hyatt Toronto! For the month of October, guests can help promote breast cancer awareness by staying in the newly-fashioned “Pink Suite.” Dreamed up by Canadian designer Sarah Richardson, of HGTV’s Design Inc., the one-of-a-kind suite features pink bedding, artwork, a sitting room, and various accents in the bathroom. Guests will also enjoy the all-pink culinary creations and amenities offered during their stay in the “Pink Suite.”
For each of the suite’s rack rate reservations, Park Hyatt Toronto will donate to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation; all funds raised will support breast cancer research and community health projects for those living with or at risk for the disease.
3. Expect to hear Elton John’s Candle in the Wind ballad at Park Hyatt Philadelphia over the next few months. The hotel’s newest package honors the life of the late Princess Diana with two VIP tickets to the Diana: A Celebration exhibit at the National Constitution Center, now through December 30.
Diana: A Celebration presents nine galleries showcasing the life and legacy of Diana Frances Spencer, Princess of Wales. The award-winning exhibit provides an intimate glimpse into her childhood, her engagement and fairytale royal wedding with Prince Charles, their children, and Diana’s tireless charity work.
Highlights include:
- Diana’s royal wedding gown, diamond tiara, veil, 25-foot train, shoes and parasol
- 28 dresses worn by Diana during her public life, including suits and gowns designed by Versace, Valentino, Chanel, and Azagury, among others
- Diamond tiaras and priceless family jewels
- Home movies of Diana’s childhood, historical artifacts, personal letters, photos and heirlooms
4. At Park Hyatt Chicago, every girl will feel like a Princess with the hotel’s American Girl Place Package. During their stay, children will receive a child-sized Park Hyatt robe and slippers for pint-sized pampering, as well as a bubble bath experience complete with a personal bath butler and a tasty “coconut flavored beverage.” Girls can snuggle up in their rooms to watch one of the four American Girl movies before the nightly turn-down service of milk and cookies. To top it all off, there’s an American Girl doll travel bed to take home as a memento! The offering is available until December 16 and includes accommodations for two and complimentary breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, NoMI.
5. Picture Colorado and your mind may conjure up images of powdery-soft snow banks and bundled-up ski bunnies. The latest offer at Park Hyatt Beaver Creek is sure to leave you smiling with an unexpected dose of sunshine. Sign up for the hotel’s Sunshine on Sale deal, book any two nights between now and December 1 and receive the third night free.
Be sure to test out the menu at the new 8100 Bar & Grill restaurant or sink into the healing waters at Allegria Spa.
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suite jams from nigo and park hyatt tokyo
Park Hyatt Tokyo gets some street cred for hooking up with Nigo, the Japanese bad-boy DJ, producer, and fashion entrepreneur, to compile a CD to celebrate the iconic hotel’s 15th anniversary. Known to rub elbows with the likes of Kanye West and Pharrell Williams, Nigo taps into his knowledge of Tokyo’s cultural mash-up and weaves underground hip-hop beats, house and lounge beats, and vibes from the late 80’s/early 90’s Japanese artists on the tracks inspired by his time spent chilling in the Tokyo Suite on the 50th floor.
No word on whether he made use of the baby grand piano in the 2,368 square-foot suite, but no doubt he enjoyed the jaw-dropping views, paintings by Yoshitaka Echizenya (he’s a modern art fan and collector), the 50-inch plasma TV, and the marble whirlpool and sauna.
Nigo is also known as the founder of the funky urban clothing line, A Bathing Ape® (called BAPE by those in the know) and he’s been credited with transforming Tokyo’s street style. You’ll be able to snag a copy of the TOKYO SUITE CD when it drops on November 25 at BAPE stores worldwide. It will also be available at the Park Hyatt Tokyo’s gift shop, and Bape’s US online store.
U.S. STORES:
BAPE STORE NEW YORK
91 Greene Street
New York, NY 10012
BAPE STORE LOS ANGELES
8001 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90046
