How a Revamped Bank—and New Hotel—Transformed into NYC’s Premier Culinary Hotspot

The Dinogo Perspective

Since the Nine Orchard opened its doors in 2022, the culinary scene in NYC has taken notice. Renowned chef Ignacio Mattos (Estela; Altro Paradiso; Lodi) is at the helm of this hotel’s dining experience, introducing the acclaimed Corner Bar and the stunning cocktail lounge, Swan Room. The hotel is also making waves in design: the historic building, once a bank, has been reimagined into a boutique hotel that feels like home—if your home were filled with vintage decor, Ojas speakers (featuring DJ Stretch Armstrong and speaker craftsman Devon Turnbull), and contemporary art. From the moment you step into the elegant wood-paneled lobby, which provides a glimpse into the Swan Room, Nine Orchard radiates a refined, Old World elegance.

Who’s it for?

Food enthusiasts and social travelers will love the convenient access to Mattos’s Corner Bar bistro and the Swan Room cocktail lounge, both popular spots for the city’s trendsetters. Yet, Nine Orchard aims to be a haven for all types of visitors. Families can choose spacious two-bedroom suites, while business travelers will appreciate the comfortable workspaces in most rooms, daily newspaper delivery, and the cozy atmosphere of the Swan Room for morning coffee and relaxation. Dog owners can request beds, food, and water bowls for their furry companions, making it truly pet-friendly.

The Location

Nestled at the intersection of Canal and Orchard streets (once an actual orchard in the early 1800s), the Nine Orchard enjoys a fantastic location in the vibrant Lower East Side, right on the edge of Chinatown. Stepping outside is like embarking on a choose-your-own-adventure: venture one way to wander beneath colorful paper lanterns in Chinatown and sip cocktails at Apotheke, located in a historic opium den; or head the other way to grab a latte and stroll along the East River.

The Nine Orchard embodies the spirit of the neighborhood in more ways than one. The owners have meticulously restored the building’s original rooftop tempietto, a beautiful blend of dome and gazebo, along with the classic clock that watches over the street. They’ve also collaborated with local businesses to furnish the hotel: beloved bookstore Sweet Pickle Books curated the collections in each guest room, Dimes Market supplies the mini-bar snacks (ranging from organic dried mango to Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels), and the iconic Mel Bakery, just a short walk away, provides the chocolate-chip cookies offered during the nightly turndown service.

The Rooms

Nine Orchard features 113 guest rooms, with 12 that can be transformed into two-bedroom suites via connecting doors. Three of the suites boast spacious brick-paved terraces adorned with greenery, Grecian sculptures, and stunning views of uptown. Designed by Reza Nouranian in collaboration with L.A. gallerist Ray Azoulay, the rooms showcase a rich blend of the new and the vintage—think antique French desks paired with retro chrome chairs from the 1970s.

The New York-based furniture company BDDW created the whimsical, floral-patterned fabric headboards, round ceramic lamps featuring blue fern-like designs, and the ceramic room key tags.

Certain accommodations, including Corner Kings, Orchard Loft suites, and two-bedroom Terrace Suites, come equipped with indulgent soaking tubs, many offering spectacular views. The amenities stand out as well: Nine Orchard’s shampoo and conditioner, specially crafted for the hotel by stylist Takamichi Saeki, are made with herbs and botanicals using a unique Italian extraction method.

Don’t miss the art displayed throughout the rooms, hallways, and common areas. Most pieces are created by New York City artists or depict the city in some way. While the Swan Room features the most striking piece—a large-scale work by Brooklyn-based artist María Berrío, showcasing two women gazing at an ocean—guests can also explore artworks by four different artists on floors 3 through 12, all printed by master printmaker Felix Harlan, whose studio is nearby.

The Food and Drink

Even if you don’t stay a night or two at Nine Orchard, it’s definitely worth making the trip for a meal, though hotel guests enjoy priority reservations. The esteemed Ignacio Mattos, celebrated Uruguayan chef who has worked alongside Alice Waters and Francis Mallmann, oversees the hotel’s culinary offerings.

An evening at Corner Bar—inspired by bistros from around the globe—might feature delicate oysters, the catch of the day enhanced with hollandaise and hazelnuts, and exceptional pommes frites. Don’t miss breakfast: overnight guests are treated to a complimentary continental spread, which includes a flaky, buttery croissant from Nordic bakery La Cabra and coffee from Counter Culture. For something more substantial, the restaurant also offers a hearty breakfast and brunch menu with dishes like the omelette Française featuring gruyère, asparagus, and gribiche (a French-style tartar sauce).

Make sure to secure a reservation in advance at the 52-seat Swan Room, especially on weekends when it becomes quite the social spot. The menu features original cocktails crafted with precision: don’t miss the strawberry-infused Sbagliato Primavera, a savory Negroni with soy and mushroom gin, or go all out with the martini service, which can accommodate up to five. Snack options range from oysters Rockefeller to an outstanding burger (the smoked-onion remoulade is a highlight). The Swan Room is also where guests can enjoy the New York Times alongside a fresh selection of pastries each morning, distinct from the continental breakfast served at Corner Bar.

This fall, the Greenhouse atop the hotel will be available for private rental—imagine hosting a holiday party with a breathtaking city view—and will feature special programming accessible to both guests and locals.

Staff and Service

The staff is attentive, friendly, and respectful without being intrusive. A delightful touch: you’ll find beautiful flowers (like lush peonies or striking orchids), usually arranged by florist April Johnson of Flower Psycho. If you’d like additional flowers in your room or wish to send a bouquet to someone special, the front desk can assist with arrangements.

Accessibility

The hotel offers seven ADA-compliant rooms, with options for both king and queen-size beds. The elevators are spacious and easy to navigate with a wheelchair.

A Nod to the Past

The owners worked alongside an architectural historian to meticulously restore the 1912 structure—the former Jarmulowsky Bank—preserving its neoclassical facade. The Swan Room, once home to bank tellers, is among the hotel's most iconic areas, featuring arched windows and an ornamental coffered ceiling reminiscent of European elegance. Above the bar, you can spot the windows where bankers once worked and observed the bustling world outside. The floors are adorned with Tennessee marble, while the walls showcase Botticino marble, similar to that found in Grand Central Station, honoring the building's banking heritage. Be sure to notice the intricate details throughout the hotel, including the cornice moldings on each floor and the historically accurate millwork (like trim and mantels), all meticulously crafted, even if not original.