I completed my trip last week and had a chance to check out the new concierge lounge. Overall, it was a great stay and the new lounge is a very nice addition to the experience.
I had booked a manhattan suite and was offered an upgrade to a central park suite when I arrived. My last stay at his property was in a manhattan suite on a high floor that gave us sweeping views of Columbus circle as well as the western side of Central Park. I told them I would be perfectly content if I could get the same type of room so I turned down the upgrade. I have stayed in the Central Park suite before and didn't particularly like my room layout so I didn't want to chance it.
The concierge lounge is located in the elevator vestibule that services the upper floors. Even though I had heard of its general location, I missed it when I checked in but it is so obvious I had a "duh" moment when one of the staff showed me where it was. The hours for all day access are Monday through Thursday from 6:30am to 10pm. Breakfast is served from 6:30am to 11am Monday through Sunday! Evening offerings are Sunday through Thursday from 5pm to 10pm.
Wednesday evening was the only time I was able to check out the evening offerings as I had other plans on Thursday and the lounge was closed in the evenings on Friday and Saturday. They had the usual fare with crackers, cheeses, etc. but also had a couple of hot items, eggplant lasagna and a veal pasta. There was an honor bar that also had complimentary sodas, water, etc. The staff was very attentive and friendly. I don't want to claim this is as good as the RC club lounge but the service level was closer to that than the other Marriott concierge lounges that I have been to. For example, I asked what time the desert was going to be offered and one of the staff brought us a sampling of all of the deserts. They were also quick to bring refills of beverages and clean used plates off of the table.
I also really like the atmosphere of the lounge. The lighting in the evening was subdued and soft music was playing. Many of the other concierge lounges I have been to have somewhat harsh lighting as well as less than desirable furniture. I found this lounge to be very comfortable. There are several different areas to sit. Some offer privacy and others more in the open seating.
I also had breakfast in the lounge every morning. Scrambled eggs, potatoes, sausage and bacon were the hot offerings. Bagels and a lot of assorted breads, pastries, cereals were also offered. There is a large refrigerated area on one of the walls stocked with fruit, juices, cream cheese, smoked salmon, and many other items. The lounge was pretty busy when I was there around 8:30 to 9:30 but never so crowded that it was difficult for my party of 3 to find a place to sit.
Overall, it was a great visit and this has become my favorite Marriott property in NYC. There are a few cons but they get overshadowed by the pros.