Lounging at the Walllllldorf

I think the musical Ain’t Misbehavin’ said it best when describing the fabulous Waldorf=Astoria:

We’re so proud, here we are at the Waldorf (delicious, delicious)

Where folks sit around all day (Caviar? Certainly, certainly)

Join the crowd, who relax at the Waldorf

To drown all their cares away (Anchovies? I’ve never heard of such a thing!)

I recently had the luxurious opportunity to stay at the Waldorf=Astoria at 301 Park Avenue in NYC. I assumed their mocha lattes would be top notch.  Turns out, their mochas are almost as expensive as their rooms (Slight exaggeration).

Taste: 4

This mocha tasted more like a latte than anything – hardly even the slightest hint of cocoa could be detected.  There was nothing too outstanding about the taste of the espresso or the foamyness of the steamed milk.  This was one of the most average, make-it-at-home mochas I have tried in a long time.  And here’s the kicker – this cost $9.00 (+$1.00 tip for table service = $10.00 mocha). MAJOR loss of points in this category.

Appearance: 3

Come on Waldorf, this is all you got?  This is not amateur hour.  I would have expected that the Waldorf would excel at everything, including the appearance of their espresso beverages.  No design? No fancy cup and saucer? I have to say that I do like their choice of a white cup and saucer as opposed to an ugly brown or black color.  I was slightly expecting to be served my mocha in something with a gold trim. Le sigh…

Store Ambiance: 8

Well now THIS is a fun place to people watch!  My friend and I stopped for a mocha on Saturday late afternoon/evening so there were lots of people dressed up and enjoying a cocktail.  There was a piano player by the bar and lots of leather bound chairs in which to relax.  All around us was old fashioned beauty – rich colored rugs, ornate clocks and paintings, and silly people enjoying a $25.00 glass of wine.  It was fun to do once, but from now on I’ll stick to lounging at the Waldorf instead of splurging on a mocha.

See the black baby grand piano in the way back?

Caviar?! Certainly, certainly.