Renaissance Hotels opens first Harlem property

Renaissance Hotels debuts its fifth property in New York City—Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. Featuring the original landmark marquee, the property is located on the site of the historic Victoria Theater on 125th Street and close to the storied Apollo Theater.

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel is the tallest building north of Central Park and the brand’s first hotel in Harlem. The property has 211 guestrooms and suites, a culinary offering and 9,000+ square feet of event space. 

"Harlem is a historical epicenter of art, cuisine, music and culture and is of the utmost importance that we stay true to the authenticity of the locale—from the details in the design to our daily programming and entertainment. In bringing the Renaissance Hotel brand to this famed neighborhood, we are inviting travelers near and far to enjoy all that this community has to offer,” Renaissance Hotels Global Brand Leader Jennifer Connell said in a statement.

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel sits in the Victoria Building, previously home to the renowned Victoria Theater. Initially established as a vaudeville venue in 1917, the Victoria Theater was later transformed into a cinema before remaining unused for many years. Preserving the essence of the Victoria Theater, the hotel conserves its outer facade, marquee, outdoor ticket booth and staircase that graces the building’s entrance.

Conceptualized by AJC Design and in line with Renaissance Hotels’ design approach across its global portfolio, the very fabric of Harlem’s past, present and future is ingrained into its architecture and every design element. The ambiance pays homage to the cultural iconography of Harlem, honoring musical legends such as Billie Holiday, Josephine Baker, Louis Armstrong and Cab Calloway. A true celebration of the neighborhood, the property features custom artistic renditions of these icons, as well as a contemporary art piece of Harlem on the library ceiling.

The 211 guest rooms include a mix of 107 single rooms, 101 doubles and three suites featuring Langston Hughes quotes adorning the walls, expansive views of Harlem and Central Park, plush bedding, and modern state-of-the-art amenities—all a welcome reprieve from the hustle of the city.

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel’s restaurant—The Victoria, operated by Silk Hospitality Group—encompasses a marble bar, dramatic lounge seating and fifth floor mezzanine. Drawing inspiration from the cultural landscape of Harlem, the Victoria features a menu by Executive Chef Bobby Bouyer that offers a creative twist on modern global cuisine told through the lens of classic technique with nods to the cuisine of the Gulf Region of the American South.

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel is owned by Lam Generation, which is also the developer for Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel, and is managed by Real Hospitality Group.