NEW YORK – Conrad New York Downtown announces the transformation of its iconic 16th-floor rooftop space into Leonessa, an elegant, Italian-inspired cocktail bar created in partnership with New York beverage authority Ariel Arce. Opening Thursday, April 3, Leonessa will transport guests with the charm, vibrancy, and ritual of Italian aperitivo culture, offering a refined cocktail experience set against breathtaking and exceptional views of the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty. Reservations for Leonessa are available via Resy.
"At Conrad New York Downtown, we strive to deliver impactful experiences for both our guests and locals by collaborating with innovative partners like Ariel Arce,” said Chintan Dadhich, general manager, Conrad New York Downtown. "Ariel is a visionary in the beverage industry and her expertise in crafting immersive cocktail programs is unparalleled. We are excited for this partnership to create an inventive cocktail destination befitting our luxury hotel’s legacy in downtown Manhattan."
"Ariel is a visionary in the beverage industry and her expertise in crafting immersive cocktail programs is unparalleled. We are excited for this partnership to create an inventive cocktail destination befitting our luxury hotel’s legacy in downtown Manhattan."
"This partnership with Conrad New York Downtown in Battery Park City offers an opportunity to create an unrivaled rooftop terrace for the community," said Ariel Arce. "With Leonessa, we're crafting an experience that captures the sophistication and romance of Italy while honoring New York's legendary landmarks. The details of the artisanal cocktail program have been carefully considered to create an unforgettable rooftop destination."
"With Leonessa, we're crafting an experience that captures the sophistication and romance of Italy while honoring New York's legendary landmarks. The details of the artisanal cocktail program have been carefully considered to create an unforgettable rooftop destination."
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Designed by NYC-based Islyn Studio, Leonessa will bring Conrad’s signature bold design to life, evoking the splendor of an Italian terrace at golden hour, creating a space that will feel transportive yet distinctly New York. The rooftop will be adorned with lush lemon trees, verdant greenery, an Amalfi Coast-inspired fountain and bold, colorful seating, capturing the essence of a timeless palazzo terrace. Beyond a premier cocktail destination, Leonessa will serve as a versatile venue for private events and celebrations, offering a one-of-a-kind setting in the heart of downtown Manhattan.
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Every element of service at Leonessa has been carefully considered to enhance the guest experience. The space will feature glassware that pays homage to Italian cocktail culture along with an expertly curated bar piece from the Milan-based Fornasetti.
Leonessa’s elevated bar program is a love letter to Italy’s rich drinking traditions, showcasing an expertly curated selection of spirits, wines, beers, and sodas. The cocktail menu seamlessly blends timeless classics with inventive modern interpretations, organized into Spritzes, Bitters, Frutte, Martinis, and Specialty Cocktails – ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Highlights include the Molto Forte, a bold bourbon-based cocktail infused with coffee and tobacco bitters; and the Kingston, a tropical twist on the Negroni featuring rum, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Martini drinkers can opt for the Leonessa Martini, a refined blend of Portofino Dry Gin, dry vermouth and citrus bitters or the Picante Martini, which brings the heat with Calabrian chili-infused vodka and a full-bodied ambrato vermouth. The Frozen Sgroppino offers a light, refreshing take on the classic Venetian cocktail, made with Belvedere Vodka, Limoncello, and sorbetto. Leonessa also embraces Italy’s sessionable drinking culture, featuring low-ABV selections and digestivi, such as the Sempre Avanti, a sparkling, herbaceous mix of Strega, mint, and Angostura bitters, and the Spagliato – a sparkling and bittersweet twist on the classic Negroni with sweet vermouth and Campari.
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Leonessa offers an equally dynamic selection of non-alcoholic beverages such as the Una Siesta, a citrus-forward drink made with blood orange and lemon mixed with the warming spice of Ghia ginger beer; and Le Stelle, a bright, effervescent mix of passionfruit, lime, mint, and sparkling Limonata. Leonessa also boasts a comprehensive selection of Amari, Vermouth, and Cordials, inviting guests to explore Italy’s rich aperitif traditions, with the option to add soda or tonic with lemon for a personalized spritz, ideal for any occasion.
As a nod to Italian tradition, each cocktail at Leonessa will be served with a rotating menu of complimentary aperitivo-style snacks, designed to enhance the drinking experience. The offerings will change nightly, with a selection of thoughtfully curated bites available each evening—examples include Black Olive Taralli, Rosemary Marcona Almonds, Sweet & Spicy Hazelnuts, Fennel & Orange Marinated Castelvetrano Olives, Parmesan Twists, and Rosemary Carta di Musica with Fava Beans and Green Olive Tapenade.
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Whether it’s Aperitivo hour, sunset drinks, or an after hours nightcap, Leonessa offers an immersive, all-evening experience that invites guests to sip, savor, and indulge in the essence of Italian drinking culture.
“Rooftop bars are a rarity in this part of Manhattan, making Leonessa a true hidden gem in the city’s ever-evolving cocktail landscape,” said Adam Crocini, senior vice president, Design, Wellness and Food & Beverage, Hilton. “Designed as a sophisticated homage to the ritual of aperitivo and the artistry of Italian cocktail culture, every element—from its breathtaking skyline views to its impeccably curated menu—has been crafted with intention. Partnering with Ariel Arce, who has redefined modern hospitality, ensures that Leonessa isn’t just another rooftop bar—it’s a destination in its own right, where each sip is an experience and every visit feels like golden hour on the Amalfi Coast. This concept also exemplifies Hilton’s forward-thinking approach to F&B storytelling and concept design—proving that when the right partner and the right hotel come together with a bold, strategic vision, the result is nothing short of extraordinary.”
“Partnering with Ariel Arce, who has redefined modern hospitality, ensures that Leonessa isn’t just another rooftop bar—it’s a destination in its own right, where each sip is an experience and every visit feels like golden hour on the Amalfi Coast.”
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Located at 102 North End Avenue, between Murray and Vesey Streets, Leonessa will further solidify Conrad New York Downtown’s reputation as Downtown Manhattan’s premier luxury hospitality destination. The 463-room, all-suite hotel is known for its contemporary elegance, award-winning service, and tailored guest experiences. Leonessa will complement the hotel’s existing offerings, which include ATRIO Wine Bar & Restaurant, 30,000 square feet of flexible function space and a 24-hour fitness center.
Michael Persico Courtesy of Conrad New York Downtown
Beginning April 3, Leonessa’s hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 4pm to 12am. Starting May 26, Leonessa will be open seven days a week from 4pm to 12am. Large party reservations are available for groups of 15 people or more and can be made by emailing: NYCCI-SalesAdm@ConradHotels.com.
Read more about Conrad Hotels & Resorts at Stories.Hilton.com.
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About Hilton
Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,400 properties and over 1.25 million rooms, in 140 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World’s Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 210 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
About Conrad Hotels & Resorts
Spanning five continents with a benchmark of nearly 50 properties, Conrad Hotels & Resorts creates a seamless connection between bold design, impactful experiences and curated contemporary art to inspire the conscientious traveler. Conrad is a place where guests are empowered to explore through intuitive service and experiences that authentically connect them with local culture. In addition to its award-winning hotel offerings, the brand also features an expanding residential portfolio combining sophisticated design, best-in-class amenities and purposeful service in sought-after destinations. Experience Conrad Hotels & Resorts by booking at conradhotels.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Conrad Hotels & Resorts at stories.hilton.com/conradhotels, and follow the brand on Instagram and X.
About Conrad New York Downtown
Located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan’s Battery Park, Conrad New York Downtown is an all-suite, luxury hotel that provides award-winning service and amenities to guests from around the world. The 16-story, high-rise property boasts 463 spacious suites offering a minimum of 430 square feet, innovative technologies, and views of the Hudson River and Statue of Liberty. An urban escape for leisure and business guests alike, the hotel features two distinctive dining concepts, including Leonessa, the hotel’s new Rooftop Bar and ATRIO Wine Bar & Restaurant; more than 2,000 exclusively curated works of art; a lush rooftop garden; and 30,000 square feet of event space. A prestigious LEED Gold certification, along with an impressive series of creative green initiatives, make the hotel a bold leader in sustainable luxury.
About Ariel Arce
Ariel Arce has established herself as one of New York City's most innovative beverage professionals. Known as the Champagne Empress of Greenwich Village and a Nightlife Hitmaker, Arce is the visionary behind Air’s Champagne Parlor, Tokyo Record Bar, Niche Niche, Special Club, RoscioliNYC (Partner), Heroes, The Pearl Box, and Big Pearl Caviar. Ariel has made a career out of making luxuries approachable, accessible, and available, earning her dining & beverage stripes at Grant Achatz’s The Office and The Aviary in Chicago, and elevating her specialty in Champagne at Pops for Champagne, Birds & Bubbles & Riddling Widow before opening her current establishments. She is considered a thought leader in the wine industry and a tastemaker in the New York dining and entertainment scenes. She is a published author with Rizzoli and has been named Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s "40 Under 40" list and recognized as part of Vox Media/Eater’s "New Guard of Power and Influence.”