In short… A perfectly OTT and indulgent property that feels like a total oasis in NYC, with some of the friendliest staff and a renowned restaurant.
The surroundings… Right by Chelsea Piers on west 18th St., the Faena New York is in the far reaches of West Chelsea—somewhat random residentially, but well-located for visitors. The property overlooks a stretch of the High Line and the Hudson River (including nearby Little Island), with expansive views. You’re also well connected to several subways and nearby neighborhoods (West Village, Union Square area)—meaning it’s easy for people to reach you. It’s honestly the perfect spot for swanky meet-ups when staying in the city.
The backstory… The second property in the States from its namesake hotel group (founder Alan Faena is Argentine, and the original is in Buenos Aires), the Faena New York is reminiscent of its Miami counterpart, with a true NY twist, leaning more urban and less beach. When you walk in you definitely can tell you’re staying at a Faena, with lots of red velvet, animal prints, and incredible staff uniforms, but it reads more Casino than Scarface.
The vibe… The entrance feels grand, with a large winding staircase in the lobby backed by a huge psychedelic mural. You’re whisked into a discreet check-in space with individual lounging areas—it’s refreshing to not see suitcases in the lobby. It was all a very welcoming vibe, thanks especially to the staff, who were all incredibly kind, unscripted, and chatty. With a strong design thread throughout the hotel, you are totally immersed in their maximal and theatrical world from the moment you step inside. You also feel incredibly well taken care of throughout your stay as each guest is assigned a “curator” (butler feels so outdated). In the evening I was offered cocktails, in the morning complimentary coffee and pastries, and was even told I could ask them to get me a pizza! How funny…
The rooms… My room was the highest level of a standard room, and it was huge. When I checked in, I marveled at the sheer amount of closet space, and the size of the windows overlooking 8th Avenue. This can be a rarity in NYC—but here, you really feel free to move around and overpack to your heart’s content. The bathroom had a fully equipped Japanese toilet—always a plus—along with a bath and a large rainfall shower. All of the amenities are Faena branded and really lovely, and I’ve also never seen so many (I was especially impressed by the nail polish remover) included in the bathroom.
The food & drink… We had drinks in The Living Room—the hotel’s bar on the 2nd floor—which was very lively for a Thursday night and full of animal print couches (which I now need)… The drinks were great and the bar snacks were delicious, and once again the staff was incredibly accommodating. We then went downstairs for dinner at La Boca by Francis Mallmann, known for modern interpretations of Argentinian classics, with live music. The room was buzzing with a great vibe and no empty tables, and the food was delicious. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, I would definitely recommend La Boca for a special occasion meal as it transports you to another place—maybe Miami, maybe Buenos Aires, but whatever it is, it’s fun. The standout was the wagyu skirt steak, so I definitely would recommend that (pictured above).
The wellness… While the spa is not yet open—it’s planned for Spring 2026—there are fitness rooms on property and guests are able to use the huge gym at Chelsea Piers just across the West Side Highway. I’m sure that once the Faena NY spa opens, it will be as good and luxurious as its Miami counterpart.
Extra tip goes to… Taulant, my Curator. He was so funny, accommodating and personable, and totally unscripted, which was super refreshing. He made me feel welcome and I totally felt like I could ask him for anything throughout my stay…even that pizza!
Parting words… The Faena NY is a really fun hotel. It feels cheery, exciting, luxurious, and over the top in all of the best ways. The design is really well done and feels like the right amount of foreign compared to other hotels in the city, which really sets it apart.
Date of stay… December 18-19, 2025
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