I am always cautious not to stay at brand new hotels, knowing there can be problems. But according to Starwood's web site, the new Westin New York will have "limited food and beverage service" until November 8th. To me, this meant that by November 8th, the hotel would be full service.

However, it was quite a different story once I got there. There is no casual restaurant where one could go to grab a quick bite to eat. They have a temporary restaurant that looks more like a conference room. In fact, I thought I was in the wrong place and the host stopped me as I was leaving the room. He then told me all about their beautiful new restaurant which will open in three days. But I was only concerned about "now" since I would be gone in just two more days. The only thing you could even order was the buffet. So I went back to the room and called "service express." I was told that the bar had a variety of sandwhiches. But when I got there, the bartender said not for three more weeks. My only other alternative was room service. Also, there was construction noise everywhere and I had to change rooms within hours of checking in. A friend of mine was there too, in a another room, and was equally disappointed.

If a hotel wants to open before everything is ready, that's fine. But upon making reservations, one should be told there my be construction and a lack of places to eat. They also should offer a substantial discount and not charge $285.00 a night until the hotel is full service.

[This message has been edited by Neal (edited 11-14-2002).]