Berlin’s Newest Star

Presidential Suite

The original Waldorf Astoria hotel was in New York, on the spot now occupied by the Empire State Building.

Built by the Astor family from Walldorf, Germany, the Waldorf Astoria brand never actually had a hotel in the motherland – until January.

Housed in a new tower, Waldorf Astoria Berlin features over 50 suites in its 232 keys including a Presidential Suite occupying the entire 31st Floor with grand piano and open fireplace. There are more than half a dozen types of suites, so elite travelers will have plenty to choose from.

For dining, Pierre Gagnaire – who boasts double digit Michelin stars – has opened the 80-seat Les Solistes. There is a 16-seat private dining room as well. Lang Bar is a tribute to Berlin’s film heritage and drinks are accompanied with truffle popcorn. Peacock Alley is the popular gathering spot in the current Park Avenue version of the group’s flagship property, and it has been recreated in the lobby. To unwind there is a Guerlain Spa and a 16th Floor library open to all guests that can be booked during the weekend for private parties.

Hilton’s head of its luxury group John Vanderslice noted that in a city that has seen growth in the high end segment, the unique Waldorf Astoria service with personal butlers for every guest sets his hotel apart. Company veteran Friedrich W. Niemann is the General Manager and on the night we visited he already had a full house.