THE CHAMPAGNE GARDEN: A MOTHER’S DAY DREAM AT THE PENINSULA
Contributor - Jack Bartholet | Lifestyle Consultant • 4/17/25
At Four Hundred, our commitment to exquisite dining and exceptional hospitality is not merely a passion—it's foundational. While a thoughtful, well-composed menu is always appreciated, what truly sets an experience apart is when it transcends the plate.
Recently, our team had the pleasure of previewing such a moment: a visit to The Peninsula New York, a landmark property that continues to shape the future of hospitality on Fifth Avenue.
We gathered at PenTop Terrace, the hotel’s celebrated rooftop lounge, for an evening that captured the essence of The Peninsula’s reimagined identity. Nestled in heated, private igloos under the Manhattan sky, our group enjoyed seasonal cocktails and learned about The Peninsula’s properties in London, Paris, Chicago and Istanbul. The renovations are incredible.
The transformation is striking. The Peninsula has recently unveiled the results of a sweeping property-wide renovation, spearheaded by Bill Rooney Studio, a revered name in the world of hospitality design. Known for shaping the interiors of globally acclaimed luxury hotels, Rooney brings an architectural sensibility that blends richness with restraint. The refreshed guest rooms and suites now exude an ambiance of quiet glamour, marked by custom millwork, a refined palette of warm materials, and thoughtfully curated artwork sourced from both emerging and established artists. The public areas—including the lobby, entryway, and lounge spaces—are equally impressive, reinterpreted with a modern eye while preserving the timeless grandeur that defines this Fifth Avenue institution.
This renovation is more than a visual update; it signals a new era of elegance for The Peninsula New York—one that honors its heritage while aligning with the desires of today’s traveler.
With Mother’s Day on the horizon, there’s no better moment for our members to immerse themselves in this “New Era of Luxury.” The property has curated a seamless and elevated celebration for the occasion—one that combines world-class dining, floral artistry, wellness, and heartfelt hospitality in one remarkable offering.
At Clement, the hotel’s signature restaurant, Executive Chef Malte Kontor will present a spectacular holiday brunch that highlights the bounty of spring. Kontor, who honed his craft in top kitchens across Germany, Switzerland, and the U.S., brings a deep respect for seasonality and craftsmanship to his cooking. His Mother’s Day buffet promises a culinary journey through refined flavors and luxurious textures: a pristine Raw Bar, a thoughtfully assembled selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, and signature dishes such as wild mushroom risotto, chicken cordon bleu, and a beautifully carved ribeye roast.
Complementing this savory showcase is the dessert program led by Executive Pastry Chef Richard Leonardo, whose creations strike the perfect balance between whimsy and precision. Leonardo, whose résumé includes celebrated pastry posts at Jean-Georges and Le Cirque, brings a modern touch to classic confections. Expect a visually arresting display of spring-inspired sweets.
No celebration at The Peninsula would be complete without a touch of effervescence. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of Louis Roederer Champagne, a toast to the joys of motherhood. Adding a uniquely interactive element to the day’s festivities is a pop-up floral atelier by renowned designer Julia Rosa, whose romantic, boldly sculptural arrangements are favorites among luxury brands and society clients alike. Rosa’s “Champagne Garden” invites guests to build their own bespoke bouquet under the guidance of expert florists—a meaningful and memorable gesture that transforms gifting into an experience.
To further elevate the occasion, each brunch reservation includes a $30 gift certificate to The Peninsula Spa & Wellness Center. The spa is home to the cult-favorite French skincare brand Biologique Recherche, revered for its targeted, highly effective treatments. The wellness center offers a curated menu of rituals, including multi-hour Day Retreats, personalized facials, and signature massages, all housed within serene treatment rooms and complemented by access to the eucalyptus steam room, fitness facilities, and the light-filled indoor pool.
The result is a comprehensive Mother’s Day celebration, seamlessly blending culinary excellence, experiential luxury, and restorative wellness—all delivered within the refined setting of The Peninsula’s beautifully redesigned interiors. It is a one-stop destination for making Mom feel seen, celebrated, and cared for, all while surrounded by the city’s most iconic elegance.
Contributor — Jack Bartholet | Lifestyle Consultant
Jack effortlessly transitions from the entertainment industry to the world of luxury hospitality and travel, bringing a rich background of collaboration with celebrated artists and extensive personal travel experiences. When not consulting, he can be seen onstage with cabaret and theatre performances. Jack's enduring passion centers on fostering a sense of belonging for LGBTQ travelers wherever their journey takes them.
