A Wren Says

While I stayed at the Lotte New York Palace in New York, I took full advantage of the daily breakfast credit I received thanks to the American Express Hotel Collection.

I considered having breakfast one day at the restaurant, but I didn’t want to go through the hassle of making a reservation, as that was highly recommended. For breakfast? For one? No, so I just ordered room service.

I thought it was a nice touch that the room service was delivered on a table. Instead of having to clear off some space somewhere or just eat in bed, I could take my meals in view of the window while pretending to be in a fine dining establishment. Here are all the things I ordered:

• Ruby red grapefruit brulee:
• Villard Omelette
• Smoked salmon bagel
• Villard burger
• Avocado toast

Let me just say that pretty much everything was good. However, my favorite was the grapefruit. That might sound boring, but it was served with a broiled sugar topping. If you have never had broiled grapefruit before, I dare you to take the time to make it at home. It is worth the effort, and tastes even better when someone else does all of the work. Unfortunately, the burger did not meet expectations. It came cold, or rather it was not optimally warm. I noticed that everything else was delivered in a heating unit and then presented in the room. All of that stuff was at the optimal temperature. The burger was sad. If it weren’t for me wanting to compare burgers at all the places I visit, I would say I regretted the choice. I was glad to have the information, and I hope the other dinner entrees were better.

The final day, I picked up food from Pomme Palais, let me tell you, I wish I had gone in there sooner into my trip. I tried to sample all that I could for my last breakfast, but alas there was so much good stuff I had to leave behind. The highlight was the quiche. The crust, the perfect custard base, it was all so good. I also got a latte, a sandwich for later, and some pastries. It was all good.

If I were stay at the Lotte New York Palace again, I confidently order room service breakfast. Even if I weren’t staying at the hotel, I would definitely go to the Pomme Palais and get a quiche and sample more of their bakery goods. But don’t take my word for it. If you get the chance, go and experience the food at the Lotte New York Palace for yourself and report back.