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In 1894 when the café on the ground floor of the New York Palace opened on Budapest's Grand Boulevard, Ferenc Molnár, one of Hungary's best known playwrights and authors, enjoyed the atmosphere so much that he declared the building must never close and, so the story goes, threw the keys into the Danube. The Palace's lavish decor made it the centre of Budapest's literary life for many years to come, but the building went into decline through the drab decades of Communism. But thanks to the Italian Boscolo Group, this city landmark has been restored to its Renaissance-style glory. Once again, cherubs frolic on frescoed ceilings and chandeliers illuminate its gilt arches. In one of the city's most original and confident restorations, the neighbouring building has been transformed from offices and apartments into a premier luxury hotel. The inner courtyard is now a lounge area and reception with a stunning marble floor. The surrounding walkways give a sense of light and space, and sanctuary from the busy city outside. The spacious rooms are decorated in muted browns and beige, with plush carpets, ornate mirrors and imported Italian furniture. The spa and wellness centre is spread across a modern grotto in the basement of the hotel, with a mosaic-tiled steam room and decent lap-pool. With just 107 rooms, including 27 suites, the New York Palace still feels personal and is perfect for honeymooners or a romantic weekend. In the evening the café fills up with theatre-goers enjoying a light supper or nightcap, although a full menu of Hungarian and Italian dishes is on offer. Ferenc Molnár would be proud.
WHEN TO GO
Spring or autumn, when
the breeze blows in from the Danube, rather than in hot-and-humid high summer.
ROOM TO BOOK
Deluxe Room 207 with its marble bathroom and step-out balcony overlooking the main boulevard.
CONTACT
Erzsébet krt 911, Budapest, Hungary (00 361 8866 111; www.boscolohotels.com).
COST
Doubles from 172 euros Deluxe Rooms from 319 euros
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