I stayed at New York’s A-list haunt The Lowell Hotel where stars get ready for Met Ball

When Madonna divorced Sean Penn in the late eighties, New York’s ultra-private Lowell Hotel was her bolt hole of choice as she recovered from the split.

The Vogue singer checked into a suite at the iconic hotel in Manhattan’s Upper East Side for a lengthy nine months and reportedly requested a bedroom be turned into a gym during her stay.

Loved by stars for its exclusive address, chic design and discretion, the famed five-star establishment still attracts big names in 2026, and when I stay there for a city break, I can see why it’s so popular.

The luxury hotel – where suites outnumber rooms – is just a five-minute drive from the world-famous Met Museum. I ask if stars get ready here before the annual Met Ball and I’m told yes, some do, due to its close proximity to the venue.

It’s not surprising… stores such as Hermes, Chanel and Tiffany’s are just around the corner, along with the shopping paradise of Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman and Bloomingdale’s.

© The Lowell

I’m told Serena and Venus Williams have recently stayed during the US Open, while Jennifer Lopez popped by for tea at the hotel’s restaurant Majorelle.

Located between Park and Madison Avenues and a short walk to the beautiful Central Park, The Lowell opened in 1927 and has become something of a local landmark.

The interior designer who remodeled the White House for the Obamas also redesigned The Lowell, inspired by the 1932 film Grand Hotel, starring Greta Garbo. Indeed, the hideaway was once frequented by the American writer Dorothy Parker.

© The Lowell

Arriving at the grand entrance and greeted by a friendly doorman – who must know every famous name in the vicinity – that feeling of old Hollywood hits you immediately. You know you’re in a rare, special place.

Entering my enormous room in the hotel, I’m amazed at the apartment-like arrangement. There’s a kitchen, lounge and wood-burning fireplaces – a rare find in New York. The beds are incredibly comfortable and there’s even a TV in the bathroom. I could absolutely live here.

Breakfast is taken “at leisure at The Pembroke Room” – a space so elegant and formal I’m expecting Richard Gere in Pretty Woman to walk in. The staff are friendly and attentive; it’s evident why stars return time after time. It’s quiet, sophisticated, like a private member’s club.

© The Lowell

The hotel’s fine dining restaurant Majorelle offers a menu of French classics with Mediterranean influences, with décor inspired by the Yves Saint Laurent’s Garden in Marrakech. I imagine actors whiling away the afternoon on a corner table, discussing scripts and projects away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Led by Chef Jean Christophe Guiony, the menu at Majorelle is seasonal, offering mains such as Duck Breast with Cherries, Sautéed Salmon with English Peas and Mint, Sea Urchin Risotto, and sweet treats like Citrus Granité.

The restaurant serves one of the most fashionable high teas you’ll find: the Lily of the Valley Afternoon Tea in collaboration with Dior Maison.

With pretty floral arrangements adorning the room, guests are treated to soft scones with Devonshire Cream and marmalades, seasonal English tea sandwiches, the most mouth-watering desserts, and specially selected teas.

© The Lowell

No visit to The Lowell is complete without a cocktail on the front street-level terrace for a spot of people watching; just the place to see the who’s who arriving and departing.

The hotel bar Jacques serves delicious cocktails; I tried a Mango Margarita, combining Volcan Tequila, mango, lime, pineapple and cucumber. It was as fabulous as it sounds.

Next year, in 2027, The Lowell celebrates its 100^th anniversary and the establishment is sure to mark the occasion in style. I may just have to make a return visit…

For more information visit: lowellhotel.com