New York City, New York
BY CASSANDRA PINTRO May 28, 2024
Welcome to Vogue’s first-ever spa guide—a compendium of the 100 best spas worldwide, pulling from the expertise of our global editors. There is a lot out there in the world of wellness, and we are here to sort the cryo from the cold plunge, the infrared light treatment from the IV infusion. Or if your path is a more holistic one—there’s something for you here, as well.
Why go here?
For all the reasons you might find yourself drawn to New York City—the hustle and bustle, the nonstop action—it can quickly become the very reason you might find yourself hungry for an escape. Just two years since it established itself in Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood, Hotel Fouquet New York, a Manhattan outpost of the renowned Parisian establishment, has endeared itself to the surrounding community by offering a home away from home, complete with a charming spa nestled in the hotel’s basement. Locals are often considered its primary guests.
What’s the vibe?
Hotel Fouquet’s Spa Diane Barrière excels in tranquility and simplicity. Named after the beloved former president, Diane Barrière-Desseigne, who led Groupe Barrière until her passing in 2001, the location pays homage to her as the embodiment of classic French beauty. Upon entry, guests are immediately enveloped in a miniature oasis of calm beneath the city, with distinct soundscapes for each earth-toned room. This isn’t a huge place; there are only five treatment rooms. But it’s one that has been carefully and thoughtfully designed for privacy and a sense of subterranean calm.
What’s the history?
The Barrière hospitality group now boasts approximately 18 properties worldwide; its most famous location remains Fouquet’s Paris. (The name “Fouquets” originates from the Parisian brasserie, Fouquets, which was acquired by the group in the ’90s.) Now, the Fouquet’s experience has extended its reach to New York City. The new location marks the group’s first venture in North America and was designed by Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki, whose maximalist art deco references are found throughout the property. However, the spa remains a restrained space, emphasizing a less-is-more approach—you might be familiar with “quiet luxury”?
What should you try?
Though the spa is compact, its offerings are impressive. The menu doesn’t aim to reinvent the wheel of wellness but rather amplifies traditional body and facial treatments. All products are sourced from the spa’s Parisian beauty partner, Biologique Recherche. One of the more interactive treatments includes “The Silhouette,” a full-body detoxifying algae wrap that involves soaking in algae before rinsing off in a quick shower. However, if you prefer a more traditional hands-off experience, a classic massage is always available à la carte. Other classics include brightening facials, mother-to-be massages, or lymphatic drainage treatments.
How environmentally friendly is it?
Among the spa’s product offerings, Spa Barrière exclusively utilizes Biologique Recherche products as part of the spa’s “Planète Barrière” commitment sustainability, which is focused on quality products, with an emphasis on the use of raw materials. “Eco-friendly products are used in the locker rooms. We implemented energy-efficient lighting and promote water conservation practices,” according to spa director Ben Batista. “Additionally, we offer reusable and biodegradable amenities and recycling.”
What else do we need to know?
Bottom line: Hotel Fouquet’s New York encapsulates the fusion of Parisian charm with the vibrant energy of New York City.
Who can go here?
The spa is accessible to all guests booking a treatment, with no stay required, and is always open to hotel guests.