In a groundbreaking move that has set the hospitality world buzzing, Michelin has expanded its repertoire of prestigious accolades—historically reserved for the crème de la crème of global culinary establishments—to include the luxury hotel sector in the United States. The announcement, made on April 25, 2024, has introduced the “Michelin Key” system, marking a new era of recognition for excellence in hospitality. Under this unveiling, a select compilation of 124 hotels across the nation have been distinguished, yet only 11 extraordinary properties have attained the pinnacle of hospitality honor, the “Three Michelin Keys” status.
Among these elite recipients, New York City proudly claims four remarkable establishments: Aman, Casa Cipriani, Crosby Street Hotel, and the Whitby Hotel. These hotels have not only benchmarked luxurious accommodation but have also embodied the essence of exclusive and unparalleled guest experiences. Aman New York, with its serene spa and private garden terrace nestled in the heart of Midtown, delivers an oasis of tranquility amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Casa Cipriani, located in a historic ferry terminal along the East River, captivates guests with its stunning views and sophisticated supper club.
Meanwhile, the Crosby Street Hotel stands out in the cobblestoned charm of Soho, brought to life by the London-based Firmdale Hotels’ first venture into the American market. Not too far away in Midtown, the Whitby Hotel redefines luxury with its unique scale and thoughtful design, ensuring a memorable stay for guests seeking distinction and elegance.
Michelin’s foray into rating hotels comes as a strategic extension of its authoritative guidance in travel, aiming to offer a holistic view of travel excellence that encompasses both dining and lodging experiences. Gwendal Poullennec, the international director of the Michelin Guides, emphasized the rigor and independence of Michelin inspectors in crafting a list that shares their top hotel experiences in the U.S. The Key system, with its tiers, seeks to simplify the hierarchy of hotel excellence for travelers, drawing parallels with its star system that rates culinary venues.
Across the United States, the establishments recognized span a diverse range of locales, from the iconic landscapes of Napa Valley and Big Sur in California to the urban sophistication of New York and Los Angeles. Each awarded hotel, whether it has received one, two, or three Keys, has been celebrated as a “gem” within the industry, offering distinctive stays defined by character, service, design, and an indefinable charm.
The rollout of the Michelin Key system started with France’s announcement on April 8, with the United States’ list following, announced during a ceremony in Manhattan. This strategic expansion reflects Michelin’s ambition to become a more comprehensive travel guide authority. Over four years, the selection team of passionate and independent experts reviewed more than 5,000 hotels, narrowing them down to those offering the most outstanding stays to receive the special Michelin Key distinction.
This initiative is poised to not only redefine luxury accommodation standards but also influence global travel trends, signaling Michelin’s continued influence in shaping the landscapes of gastronomy and now, hospitality.
Source
