This winter, the TWA Hotel is inviting guests to check out its rooftop for cocktails and respite from the busy city. The Runway Chalet at The Pool Bar—a toasty 1960s ski lodge-themed getaway—has opened on the roof of the landmark 512-room TWA Hotel, the only on-airport hotel at JFK International Airport.
“The inspiration for the Runway Chalet at The Pool Bar is 1960s ski lodge glamour—think Audrey Hepburn in Charade with a touch of Roy Lichtenstein’s pop art color palette,” said Tara Romeo of MCR, owner-operator of the TWA Hotel. “We hope guests feel like they are perched on a snowy mountaintop peering out to catch the steam rising from the infinity pool—and jet-setters taking off on JFK’s runways.”
Romeo added, “The centerpiece of the Runway Chalet is a 1960s mid-century modern fireplace with an original electric log around which guests can sit for fireside chats. Fuzzy throws, baskets of wool blankets and 1960s-inspired plaid pleated curtains warm up the space. Guests can play authentic 1960s games and try on vintage coats, sweaters and hats. Of course, we have 1960s skis and poles, too.”
The Runway Chalet at The Pool Bar—operated by Gerber Group, which also operates The Sunken Lounge and Connie at the TWA Hotel—serves food and drinks to guests and locals alike. It wouldn’t be the 1960s without fondue so the hot spot offers both chocolate and Vermont cheddar varieties. Dip into a pot of cheese, then dip into the pool.
“The winter brings opportunity for the bar team to have a bit of fun highlighting warming cocktails and festive garnishes to really amplify that seasonal spirit,” said Vinny Mauriello, managing partner of Gerber Group. “When ideating the cocktails and bites for The Runway Chalet at the TWA’s Pool Bar we envisioned what one would really want après-ski. Surrounded by this stylish and cozy retro Alpine hideaway, our menu includes classic cold-weather favorites with a twist, like the ‘Idlewild Hot Toddy’ (Sailor Jerry spiced rum and hot apple cider) or ‘Weather Delay’ (Belvedere vodka and hot chocolate). To complement the drinks we offer bites that give ski cabin vibes, such as a savory Vermont Cheddar fondue and a sweet chocolate fondue, or an indulgent artisanal cheese and charcuterie board.”
Leave your ski poles at home, but bring your bathing suit: The water in the pool-cuzzi hits 95 degrees or higher every day. The tented and heated bar—outfitted with retro ski gear—offers peak views of Runway 4 Left/22 Right. Visitors can zig zag over to the vintage fireplace (complete with electric logs) and watch planes head cross-country while enjoying an Idlewild Hot Toddy.
