Bringing a taste of Parisian panache to Tribeca, Hotel Barrière Fouquet’s New York has been in the limelight since its debut in September 2022. The eight-story hotel is the first U.S. outpost for the family-run hospitality brand known for its iconic namesake hotel opened in 1899 on the famed Champs-Elysees. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, the new hotel is a captivating study in contrasts, blending elements from both past and present.
For weeks, I watched as my Instagram feed filled with envy-inspiring photos of its chic guest rooms and suites, the most glamourous screening room I’d ever seen, and a host of intoxicating cocktails. The new debut was definitely generating buzz. And I couldn’t wait to experience it for myself.
Fortunately, I recently got the opportunity to spend some time at the hotel’s Spa Diane Barrière, an inviting enclave with five treatment rooms, a sauna and steam room, and an indoor pool. It was the perfect place to spend a few hours on a cold winter’s day. Located beneath the hotel’s meeting and event spaces, the spa is named for Diane Barrière-Desseigne, president of Groupe Barrière until her passing in 2001. It, too, was designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio and is inspired by its namesake’s effortless style.
What We Love
- Hydrotherapy pool
- Thoughtfully chosen product lines
- Spa Diane Barrière Facial, a hyper-customized Biologique Recherche treatment
- Visiolab, state-of-the-art diagnostic tools that help to analyze skin
- Dining at Par Ici Café
Spa Facility
After spending some time lounging by the hydrotherapy pool, I made my way to the steam room. It was there I felt my stress start to melt away. After about 20 minutes or so, I treated myself to a green smoothie before heading to the relaxation lounge to wait to be called for my first treatment. Thanks to Visiolab, Biologique Recherche’s skin assessment tools, guests can have their skin analyzed by a spa specialist who will then prescribe the appropriate facial and products for their skin.
I experienced the Spa Diane Barrière Facial, which is a customized treatment designed to provide a lifting effect. Because I have highly sensitive skin, my esthetician personalized the treatment to calm and soothe my rosacea-prone skin. I also had a brief 30-minute relaxing massage that left me wanting more.
Adding to the French feel of the spa is the choice of product lines. In addition to using Biologique Recherche, the spa also carries organic and vegan products from Le Rouge Francais, a vegan nail line from Manicurist, and the French, women-owned skincare line Mon Huilette. Spa Diane Barrière is the only U.S. spa to carry Mon Huilette.
Cuisine
After spending several hours at the spa, I enjoyed lunch at Par Ici Café, the hotel’s Parisian-style terrace located within an enclosed courtyard. Honoring a slow-food approach, the restaurant offers a host of vegetarian dishes using fresh, local, and organic ingredients. Carnivores can also find some options on the menu with add-on proteins, such as Faroe Island salmon, lobster, lamb, filet, and chicken. I opted for the truffled grilled cheese sandwich with seasonal tomato soup. It wasn’t the healthiest option available, but it certainly hit the spot.
