T
he iconic Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, once home to Cole Porter and closed for eight years, is finally set to reopen in September. However, this date marks the fourth delay since its closure in 2017, with Hilton initially promising a reopening as early as 2021.

    A spokesperson for the hotel told The Post that they expect to open sooner than expected, but an exact date has yet to be determined. Industry insiders are skeptical about the new timeline, citing previous failed promises.

    The Waldorf-Astoria's reopening is crucial for Hilton, which has a 100-year management contract with the property. The hotel's Art Deco architecture and interior treasures, including Peacock Alley with Cole Porter's piano, have been a major draw for New Yorkers and visitors alike.

    Despite repeated delays, the hotel's managing director, Luigi Romaniello, and his team have been working to restore the property to its former glory. A restaurant called Lex Yard, run by Gramercy Tavern chef Michael Anthony, is also set to open along with the hotel.

    Construction sources had previously warned that the spring target for reopening couldn't be met, with some predicting a possible October opening. The delay has caused frustration among Hilton executives, who are "privately fuming" over the repeated delays.

    The Waldorf-Astoria's renovation has been a complex and costly process, with a price tag of over $2 billion. The project involved converting more than half of the landmarked property into luxury condos, reducing the number of guest rooms from 1,400 to 375. While some condo units have already begun receiving residents, the hotel portion of the project has been slower to progress.

    Sources close to the project say that Daija Insurance Group, which took over after Anbang's chief executive was imprisoned in 2018, prioritized completing the condos over the hotel renovation. The new Waldorf boasts a range of luxury condo units, from studios priced under $2 million to lavish four-bedroom units up to $15 million.