by Jim Ormond

In a relatively short time the Westchester Marriott has fast become a well-known local hub for business travelers, corporate meetings and tourists. Residents who haven’t been to the Marriott in a while are in for a wonderful eye opener. An extensive ten million dollar renovation that began eighteen months ago has given the hotel a beautiful new look and, with special additions, has also made the Marriott an attractive destination for eating and socializing after work.

“You are looking at an almost entirely new property,” says Holly J. Anderson, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Westchester Marriott. All of the hotel’s 440 guest rooms have been completely upgraded with new furniture, carpet, paint, wall paper and bathroom fixtures. Of course what a weary traveler prizes most is a good night’s sleep, and the Marriott’s signature ‘Revive’ bedding system of sheets and blankets, a focal point of each room, will offer a luxurious night of sleep...

Anderson notes that 60 percent of the hotel’s business consists of group travelers, including company conventions and special meetings. Consequently, the recent improvements took kept an eye on making the hotel as versatile as possible for large groups. An Executive Conference Suite on the first floor as well as new breakout meeting rooms on the second floor, fully updated with the latest communications and computer technologies, will give company meetings added flexibility. “Altogether we now have twenty function rooms with over 22,000 square feet for meetings or banquets,” says Anderson. “This gives our guests flexibility to have a large luncheon, where ,for example, the entire company comes together for a main message in our grand ballroom and then divides into smaller groups for private meetings and brainstorming.”

The best reason to visit the newly refurbished Marriott is to enjoy the food. The menu at the attractively appointed Harvest Grille, the Marriott’s new destination for casual dining, offers traditional American favorites as well as regional specialties which reflect the best of the Hudson Valley. The Harvest Grille is open for breakfast lunch or dinner for both hotel guests and the general public. The open, airy environment, with striking scenes of the Hudson Valley in autumn adorning the walls, creates just the right mood for business or pleasure. The restaurant’s sixteen seat private dining room can be used for anything from Sweet Sixteen parties to Birthday and Anniversary celebrations.

For everyday celebrations and get-togethers, the Marriott is hoping that it’s new ‘Cheers’ style sports bar ‘The Tavern’ will be a popular local hangout and after-work get-together destination. “We want this place to be buzzing,” says Anderson. We would like everyone who lives within a five-mile radius of this hotel to consider The Tavern their local pub. We also hope that everyone who works in the area will say ‘Let’s stop by The Tavern and have a drink after work.’ And, of course, we think our hotel guests will enjoy the friendly social ambiance.”

If the design of The Tavern is any indication, its future prospects look good. The Tavern welcomes visitors with a stunning granite bar, and traditional wood floors. In addition to the 12 stools at the bar, there are banquettes and tables of four as well as three flat screened televisions(for sports fans) and a new sound system to offer the most high-tech entertainment experience. Every Thursday from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., The Tavern will feature live unplugged entertainment.

Adding to the sense of fun are The Tavern’s planned menu items and special drinks with locally-themed names. Popular favorites are sure to include the Tarrytown Hot Brown (an Open-Faced Hot Turkey Sandwich on Texas Toast with Mornay Sauce, Bacon and Tomato) and the Dirty Hudson (a cocktail made of Grey Goose Vodka, Vermouth and Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives.)

While The Tavern is inspired by the television program ‘Cheers’ Anderson proudly points out that a recent group booking included the cast & crew of another popular television program ‘The Sopranos.’ After filming at a nearby location cast and crew stayed at the Marriott, lounging around the Marriott’s indoor pool and chatting around the hotel’s lobby bar with other guests. Anderson believes the producers of the hit show chose The Marriott for the same reason the hotel continues to be popular. “We’ve got a pool, three great restaurants, 2 bars, a full service health club and all the amenities you want,” says Anderson. “There’s always something to do here.”

The Tavern at the Westchester Marriott will be open Monday through Fridays at 2pm, Saturday and Sunday at noon. Staying open til 1:00 am on the weekdays and 2:00 am on Friday and Saturday. Parking is complimentary.

For additional information on The Tavern at the Westchester Marriott, please call (914) 631-2200 or visit the hotel on the web at www.westchestermarriott.com.