New York City Hotel Favorites
In New York City, there is always something new and fabulous opening, which is synonomous with the hotel scene. While the island of Manhattan is merely a few miles wide and a dozen in length, the location and vibe of your hotel impacts your whole experience! After living there for 10 years and visiting often for work and pleasure, please take my word for it. Each hotel can suit every style from modern to incredible design.
In my recent visit, I shortened my (growing) list of places to stay in the city with a chance to view and experience during the recent ‘Travel Week’ events. Pro tip, January is the best time to unearth an amazing price for an incredible hotel, Restaurant Week and pepper in some spa treatments, while the city is quietly cooing from it’s bustling holiday season.
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it can serve as a romantic retreat with your significant other and win you a lot of points for planning (but allow me to hook you up!).
Now, let’s go by neighborhood:
Meatpacking District
In the trendy neighborhood, the coveted address is the Gansevoort NYC. Directly across from the scene-y Restoration Hardware and a block from the iconic Pastis, the property also now boasts its on ‘Members Only’ Club downstairs to revel in and be near enough to your bed. On a lovely day, you can find yourself weaving through the West Village neighborhood or enjoying the proximity to the High Line and Chelsea Market. Oh, did I mention they have a rooftop pool? Step aside crowded Soho House!
Soho Neighborhood
Where do you want to go on a moody day? A luxurious hotel with floor to ceiling windows with every inch designed to make you feel at home at The Crosby Hotel. This classic beauty and elevated whimsy of these Firmdale properties are easy to spot with the calling card headboards of Kit Kemp’s in-house design team.
Check out the new property the Warren in Tribeca — another Firmdale show stopper.
Bordering LES & Chinatown Neighborhood
A stunning 1912 Beaux-Arts Building got new life when Nine Orchard Hotel took over to make it the hottest new place in town for visitors and locals alike. Their Michelin star chef restaurant and the stunning Swan Bar scene with it’s incredible design has drawn in so many through it’s doors, complemented by a collection of commissioned artworks from local artists throughout the hotel.
Midtown Manhattan
If an classic New York City experience has brought you to town, then look no further than the quintessential hotel: St. Regis New York. Housing some of the best suites in the city and proximity to the must-dos in town, you can’t go wrong with a stay here. Just off the elegantly designed lobby, you will be greeted by the famous dark-wood bar and eyes will be drawn in by the sweeping Maxfield Parrish mural featuring King Cole seated in his throne, which you have likely seen in many Hollywood films. And across the street, you will find the hot ticket in town Polo Bar. The hard-sought reservation can be procured by the concierge at The St. Regis, so it pays to know people - wink wink.
NoMad/Flatiron Neighborhood
Run, don’t walk to this new beauty taking over NoMad! The Fifth Avenue Hotel is oozing with personality and panache. My friend Ruddy Harootian from Hidden Doorways, rightfully called it, ‘a jewel box.’ One of the newest Leading Hotels of the World has certainly earned it’s flag.
The guest who would love it would be prepared to slow down, be present, trying new things and expanding their palette. There is nothing spared when it comes to attention to detail and elements a curious, worldly traveler would enjoy from the beguiling rooms to The Portrait Bar, “cladded with fine and locally sourced millwork, with a wood-burning fireplace, and wonderfully curated portraits from all over the world.” Absolute must stay and steps away from various alluring city attractions.
Upper East Side
Saving the best for last… The Carlyle Hotel is utterly timeless, tucked away uptown, mere blocks from Central Park and steps from the luxury Madison Avenue promenade. Inside the Rosewood beauty, the desired spot to be is at the Bemelmans Bar, accompanied by the resident pianist and incredible cocktails. The neighborhood celebrities frequent this Upper East Side haunt. An elevator ride up takes you to some of the most spectacular rooms and suites, many beloved by Jennifer Anniston and Met Gala attendees. The 360 view in the Presidential Suite, encompassing the full 26th floor, is the ultimate show.
If this stay is good enough for Sinatra, Princess Diana, a running list of Presidents, Aniston, and Vera Wang to set up her own bridal boutique, then it’s good enough for us! You owe it to yourself to stay here.
While I gave you plenty to consider, please reach out when planning a trip to Manhattan. Use my connections to your benefit and stay in the lap of luxury! Get a former resident and tastemakers take on the type of experience you wish to have and I’ll place you where you need to be.
