The Loews Regency Hotel, the birth place of the power breakfast

When I received an invitation for a power breakfast at the recently renovated Regency Bar & Grill, at New York’s legendary hotel, the Loews Regency, I was over the moon. This hotel is regarded as the birth place of the “the power breakfast” and right now is considered to offer one of the finest dining experiences in this great city. This would certainly be one to store in the memory books.

New York, in the 1970s, was on the brink of bankruptcy. Bob Tisch, the Loews Regency’s founder, invited the city’s business and political leaders there to discuss ways to put New York back on track. So the term “power breakfast” was coined.

The breakfast spot gained momentum and as it became the norm for people to have early morning meetings, the Loews Regency became the destination for people to go to see and be seen at the start of the working day.

Ready for breakfast

This tradition only stopped when the hotel had to close for the building works. But now the movers and shakers from the world of business, media, politics and finance are back in full force at this Park Avenue venue. Yet, despite this being a power house pulsating with energy as deals are made and sealed, it is extremely warm and welcoming.

Managed by New York City restaurateurs Gherardo Guarducci and Dimitri Pauli of the Sant Ambroeus Hospitality Group and spearheaded by culinary genius executive chef Dan Silverman, the menu at the Loews Regency Bar & Grill, using market-fresh ingredients, dishes up classics with a modern day twist and an international flavour.

There was not a spare place in sight at the beautifully-designed chrome bar which I passed on my way to the restaurant which has a contemporary classic feel about it. I loved the neutral upholstery which worked well with the boldly-patterned carpet.

Service was slick, thoughtful and friendly. As soon as I sat down coffee was served and kept coming. I needed the caffeine injections after being awake since 5am. I wasn't going to let a little thing like jetlag ruin my New York break. The coffee was really good and did the trick.

The bar

To start I had a plate of seasonal berries which tasted as if they had just been picked, followed by smoked salmon served with a bagel, cream cheese, capers, red onion and tomato. This, too, was excellent.

The fare is not cheap, but I guess that is relative. The two men at the next table were talking about transactions in amounts that made telephone numbers look small.

There are plenty of healthy options to choose from such as an egg white frittata which comes with broccoli, carrots and peppers and for those with a more heartier appetite, the full American breakfast will not disappoint. Another star, I am told, are the pancakes.

There were plenty of people eating while doing business which is a testament to the quality of the food.

Being in a room that fizzes with energy and creativity is great way to start the day whether you are in New York for pleasure or business.  You never know, some of the magic may just rub off.

By Daralyn Danns

Getting there

London City

British Airways operates an exclusive 32-seat all-business class jet service from London City to New York 11 times a week

To book or for more information and best fares visit ba.com/New York

 

Heathrow

British Airways operates several daily services from London Heathrow to New York

To book or for more information and other airports visit ba.com/newyork 

For more information about the Loews Regency, visit loewshotels.com

First published in All About Hair (All About Hair UK), the travel and lifestyle blog with a luxury twist