David Salcfas

David Salcfas is the General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel New York. He joined Hard Rock Hotel New York in May 2023 after an extensive, distinguished tenure with Marriott International where he made tremendous impact as an Executive Committee member across a portfolio of 16 hotels and five brands. His journey spanned an astounding 23 positions through Sales, Catering, Events, Marketing, and Operations across the Eastern region. Highlights included Hotel Manager postings for the Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, and the New York Marriott Marquis.

Throughout his career, Salcfas, an ardent advocate for community and culture, has dedicated himself to enriching the local sphere. Drawn to Hard Rock’s profound commitment to philanthropy, he is eager to further the invaluable contributions made by the Hotel in their first year of opening. “I’ve always had deep business connections where I’ve served, and I look forward to uplifting and investing in the vibrant ecosystem to which we belong,” Salcfas enthusiastically shared. At the core of these efforts is programming that captivates New Yorkers and visitors alike, and unique partnerships and experiences that unite around significant causes to create lasting change.

Rockstar Suite Terrace

As a devoted fan of the influential glam rock band, KISS, Salcfas appreciates how music is seamlessly woven into the fabric of Hard Rock Hotel New York. “I’ve been a lifelong fan of the Hard Rock brand, and I look forward to delivering a bespoke, high-touch service experience for our guests,” said Salcfas who is keen to build on the growing reputation of the iconic entertainment brand in New York City. “I’m excited to be a bandleader and inspire our talented team – known at Hard Rock as band members – in the performance of a lifetime,” added Salcfas in closing.

David is a graduate of Johnson and Wales University and serves on the President’s Alumni Advisory Council. Beyond his professional endeavors, Salcfas delights in spending quality time with his family of six, be it island getaways or leisurely bike rides through the park.

What makes Hard Rock Hotel New York stand out from other properties you’ve worked in?
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in 16 hotels across five distinctive brands, each with its unique culture and spirit. However, leading Hard Rock Hotel New York is something truly special. What drew me here was Hard Rock International’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with the profound connection to music and entertainment. There’s a energy here that’s palpable. The brand doesn’t just create a place to stay; it builds an experience that resonates with guests long after they’ve left. Hard Rock Hotel New York is nestled in the heart of midtown Manhattan, , and we get to pair the city’s vibrant energy with world-class hospitality. We don’t just offer luxury touch-point and service—we provide an immersive cultural experience, from the music and entertainment to crush-able cocktails and tasty bites, and personalized guest engagement. This is what excites me every day.

Elevators

Who is your typical customer?
Our guests are as diverse as New York City itself. We host leisure travelers, business professionals, couples seeking romantic getaways, families on vacation, and even those attending meetings, weddings, and large-scale events. Being situated between Broadway and Rockefeller Center makes us a prime spot for theatergoers and entertainment enthusiasts. We craft experiences that fit the dynamic needs of every guest. What sets us apart is our ability to make every guest feel like a rock star, regardless of the purpose of their visit. Whether they’re here for a conference or to see a Broadway show, we
amplify their stay by blending the electric energy of New York City with our signature Hard Rock Hotels vibe.

If you could plan a one-day itinerary for guests looking to explore New York, where would you send them?
New York is one of those places where you can experience the world in a day. I’d start by recommending a double-decker bus tour—it’s a great way to get an overview of the city’s five boroughs and see landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. For a romantic experience, I’d suggest a walk through Central Park or along the Brooklyn Promenade, both offering serene escapes with breathtaking views. If you’re a theater lover, catching a Broadway show is a must. And, of course, no trip to NYC is complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty—it’s iconic and seeing it up close really connects you to the city’s history. Ultimately, New York is about personal discovery, and we try to tailor our recommendations based on the guest’s unique interests.

Building the right team is crucial for a property’s success. What key skills do you look
for when hiring new employees?
I often compare building a team to forming a band—each member needs to be in sync for the music to truly come alive. The success of our hotel depends on the engagement and satisfaction of our team members, or as we like to call them, “Band Members.” The number one trait I look for is empathy. Hospitality is about making people feel seen, heard, and valued. If our Band Members can do that, we’ve already won half the battle.

David Salcfas

Beyond that, I look for strong communication skills, a passion for service, and a willingness to grow. A positive attitude is non-negotiable—we’re in the business of making memories, and that starts with a positive work environment. I believe in fostering open communication, encouraging professional growth, and creating a sense of belonging. When our Band Members feel supported, they deliver a higher level of service to our guests, and that’s what makes us stand out.

Rockstar Suite Bathroom

What is the USP (Unique Selling Proposition) of your hotel?
Our secret weapon is access. We don’t just provide a room—we curate experiences that are deeply rooted in the culture of New York City. For example, we’ve created area guides with input from musicians and locals who know the pulse of the city. Our relationships with Broadway theaters allow us to offer our guests exclusive access to the best seats and even meet and-greets with cast members. The intimate pop-up performances at The Venue on Music Row are a game-changer, too. These
are events you can’t find anywhere else—Grammy-winning artists and global superstars performing in an exclusive, small setting. These are the kinds of experiences that turn a great stay into an unforgettable one. We strive to make every trip to Hard Rock Hotel New York unique, whether it’s a first-time visit or we’re already your favorite NYC hotel.

What is the one dish that guests have to try when at your hotel?
Situated atop the 34th floor RT60 Rooftop Bar and Lounge is a sanctuary for cocktail enthusiasts. RT60 Rooftop offers a menu of crushable cocktails, re imagined classic bites and an exciting lineup of live music, performances and DJs to transition guests from evening hangs to a late night vibe. Favorite cocktails include the Rosé Sangria and The Hemingway and guests should indulge in small bites served with our signature RT60 Towers, Some of my favorite dishes are Beef Bourguignon on Sourdough, topped with American Caviar, and Wignettes, a roasted chicken bites. . RT60 Rooftop Bar & Lounge emanates an infectious, feel-good ambiance, seamlessly transitioning from day to night as the sun sets, elevating the evening to new heights.

 How will travel trends change in the second half of 2024?
As we move into the last quarter of 2024, we’re anticipating strong demand, especially for the holiday season.. Business travel is bouncing back, with conferences and meetings gaining momentum once again. Groups are beginning to gather, and leisure travelers remain robust. The catering side of our business is also seeing a resurgence, with clients looking for unique spaces, like our Venue on Music Row, NYY Events, Audacy Live Studio space or the Rock Star Suite, for their events. People are craving meaningful experiences, and they’re willing to invest in travel that feels special. We’re perfectly positioned to meet this demand, offering one-of-a-kind events, luxury accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences.

Was a career in hospitality something you always dreamt of? What advice would you
give to aspiring hoteliers?
I’ve always been drawn to hospitality because it’s an industry that’s rooted in human connection. There’s something incredibly rewarding about being part of someone’s experience, whether it’s a vacation, wedding, or business trip. My advice to aspiring hoteliers is simple:

1. Seek Mentorship: Find someone who has walked the path before you. A mentor can provide invaluable guidance, helping you navigate the ups and downs of your career. Build relationships with leaders who inspire you and who can help you grow.
2. Start with the End Goal in Mind: Know where you want to end up. Whether it’s leading a hotel, running a department, or specializing in a specific area, having a clear goal gives your career purpose and direction. The journey may have twists and turns, but keeping your eye on the end goal will help you stay focused.

Which cities are your favorites for: food, history, and fashion?
1. Food: New York City is an unparalleled melting pot, offering a world of flavors. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s a foodie’s paradise.
2. History: Dublin—I love its rich, authentic history, and the way the past is seamlessly woven into the fabric of the city.
3. Fashion: London—there’s something timeless yet cutting-edge about London fashion. It’s a city that effortlessly mixes tradition with modern trends, and the street style is unparalleled.

You have worked in several cities. Which is your favorite city for work and play?
New York City is my top choice for both work and play—there’s simply no place like it. The energy is infectious, and there’s always something new to discover. But Boston also holds a special place in my heart. It’s a vibrant city where you can experience so much in just a few days. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, enjoying the waterfront, or taking in the local culture, Boston never disappoints.

When are you happiest?
I’m happiest when I find balance between my personal and professional life. Some of my favorite memories are when my wife and four children join me at an event hosted by the hotel. It’s a rare and special moment when the people I work with get to know me beyond the role of leader and see the person I am with my family. Those connections make my job more meaningful, and they remind me of the importance of work-life harmony.

At work, which is your most challenging activity and why?
The most challenging part of my role is reminding myself that not everything has to be done today. In such a fast-paced environment, it’s easy to feel like you have to check off every box immediately. But I’ve learned that pacing yourself and focusing on the bigger picture is key. Prioritizing, delegating, and trusting your team is essential for long-term success.