The Ritz-Carlton Moscow opens in the historic Tverskaya Street, offering views of Red Square

When the power elite of Russia are not meeting at the Kremlin, chances are they may soon be found ‘power dining’ around the corner from Red Square at Jeroboam, three starred Michelin chef Heinz Winkler’s restaurant in Moscow’s most talked about luxury hotel, the Ritz-Carlton, Moscow, where room rates begin at $1,000 per night.* Opened on 1 July 2007, the hotel’s debut symbolises the evolutionary changes taking place in Moscow. The city is quickly emerging on the world’s stage as a sophisticated and stylish destination for business and leisure travellers.

Tverskaya 3, a historic hospitality address for centuries, is the site of the $350 million, 334-room hotel featuring an imperial Russian façade and chic, elegant interior with unique contemporary accents. This will be the first property in Russia for the award winning hotel company and its seventh in Europe. “Having such an impressive presence in Moscow is part of our ongoing strategy to develop world class hotels in cities where the economy is growing and the demand for luxury lodging is high,” said Simon F. Cooper, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. “We believe the service will be as exceptional as the surroundings, and the hotel will be the first choice for the local community, as well as visitors.” 

The site of the Ritz-Carlton, Moscow was originally an 18th century tavern for travellers seeking lodging. Decades later it became known as the hotel ‘Paris’, a popular gathering spot for Russian writers and poets to share their creative thoughts. In 1970, The Hotel ‘Intourist’ took its place as a lodging landmark before eventually being demolished to make way for the architectural firm, Mosproject, and famed designer Peter Silling’s vision for the Ritz-Carlton. Tverskaya Street has long been known as a progressive section of Moscow, with the first gas street lamps and first horse-drawn railway debuting there in 1860.

O2 is the ‘buzz’ of Moscow

Featuring the most spacious guestrooms in Moscow, the Ritz-Carlton fuses elements of classic design with surprisingly contemporary features. An elevator ride to the rooftop bar on the 12th floor reveals The O2 Lounge, with its dramatic glass dome. A polished black tile floor, edgy red velvet cocoon chairs and white leather furnishings, plus the sound of dance music spun by a disc jockey, are expected to make O2 the new Moscow after hours ‘insider spot’.

In addition to spectacular views of Red Square, the O2 Lounge will showcase the talents of celebrity chef Seiji Kusano, known for his sushi creations including a gourmet roll prepared with Beluga caviar and blue fin tuna, garnished with gold leaf. Guests wishing to visit other popular nightspots and restaurants can retain the services and advice of ‘the nightlife butler’, whose connections are guaranteed to gain them access beyond the velvet ropes.

No visit to the Ritz-Carlton, Moscow would be complete without experiencing the ‘cuisine vitale’ menu at Jeroboam, overseen by Germany’s renowned three star Michelin chef Heinz Winkler. The restaurant’s design is accented by a glass dome with Italian marble and Venetian influences. Paintings of Baden-Baden in Germany and Combray in Northern France were created by noted European artist Junior Toscanelli. Wine aficionados will enjoy Petrus, the intimate wine room available for small groups to select from more than 800 rare and vintage bottles collected from the finest vineyards in the world. This includes an extensive variety of Chateau Petrus from Bordeaux, and the opportunity to order a 1961 Grand Cru for $68,000. For fans of Macallen Single Malt Whiskey, Petrus will offer a complete selection to choose from when dining. The Macallan Fine and Rare Collection vintage 1969 can be savoured for $400 a shot.

For the ultimate “over the top” experience, with a distinctly Russian flavour, consider the Tsar’s Breakfast with a royal cost of $700 per person. Included in what may be the world’s most expensive morning meal: A bottle of Crystal champagne; Kobe beef steak with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and truffle omelette; foie gras ‘Au Torchon’ with caramelised apple and pain brioche; selection of imported Italian prosciutto and cheese; 56 grams of Beluga caviar with blinis, sour cream and quail eggs, seasonal fruits, pastries, freshly squeezed juices and hot beverages.**

Vodka sommelier expertise

Guests wishing to relax will appreciate the library-like atmosphere of The Lobby Lounge, where they can consult the ‘vodka sommelier’, who can not only explain the differences and nuances of some 400 types of the Russian drink, but can also suggest the best ways to combine drinking vodka while savouring another native specialty, caviar.

Visitors selecting accommodations in the Ritz-Carlton Club, accessible only by elevator key, will enjoy spectacular views of Red Square from the lounge area. An outdoor terrace overlooking the iconic landmarks is the perfect place to enjoy food and beverage offerings throughout the day, including an evening caviar presentation. A multilingual concierge is available to assist guests with any request during their stay.

Meetings at The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow can be held in a variety of settings from the largest ballroom in the city, accommodating up to 700, to smaller venues including breakout rooms, pre-function space, and a small board room. The total meeting space is 14,000 square feet/ 1,300 square meters.  

For those wishing to visit a spa or the fitness centre, the Ritz-Carlton, Moscow offers a 21,520 square feet/ 2,000 square meter spa by ESPA, a heated indoor swimming pool, and complete work out area equipped with the latest machines for daily exercise. This will be the largest and most lavish spa in Moscow.
    
  **Available at a future date