Considered by some to be the most fashionable hotel in New York, it overlooks the beautifully refurbished Bryant Park. The modern furnishings are by B&B Italia and the service unsurpassed. In fact, Conde Nast Traveler once named it to its "Gold List" of best places to stay.
Created by party legend Jeff Klein, the hotel feels more like a jet-set pied-à-terre. Modern and elegant, the 65 guest rooms were designed by Jeffery Bilhuber. There are also three duplex suits. The downstairs restaurant, DB Moderne, is reserved exclusively for guests during breakfast hours.
Owned by Westin, the Essex House is the crown jewel in the chain. Its location overlooking Central Park guarantees bucolic views from most rooms. The building itself has been painstakingly preserved in accordance with its venerable history. Essex House was voted one of Travel & Leisure's "Top 500 Hotels in the World." Located in the lobby is the five-star Alain Ducasse restaurant.
This luxury hotel is located on floors 35-54 with spectacular park and skyline views. There are 203 rooms and 48 suites in all, featuring floor to ceiling windows and top of the line appliances. Guests also have access to the 14,500 square foot spa and fitness center.
The rooms vary in this centrally located hotel and range from average to opulent. They often feature park views and offer such amenities as flat-screen TVs, DVD players and seamless glass steam showers. There are two house restaurants on the premises.
Sofitel
Address: 45 West 44th Street
Phone: 212-354-8844
Website: www.sofitel.com
In spite of its size and somewhat corporate feel, this hotel recently made Frommer's "Most Romantic" list. The style reflects its French ownership and is surprisingly warm and cozy. The service is excellent. And the location is central to all midtown theaters and attractions.
This small boutique hotel is a wonderful combination of downtown hip and uptown luxury. The rooms are low-key and luxurious. The duplex penthouse is truly spectacular. All this in the heart of Midtown.
This boutique hotel has a modern feeling that whispers rather than flaunts European style. Featuring subdued interior design, rooms are somewhat small, but beautifully furnished and appointed. The multi-lingual staff is highly attentive.
The Peninsula
Address: 700 Fifth Avenue (East 55th Street)
Phone: 212-956-2888
Website: newyork.peninsula.com
This hotel is located right in the center of Fifth Avenue shopping. However, once inside you will instantly forget all the hustle and bustle of the outside world. In 1998, the majestic Beaux Arts building was restored and renovated to the highest standards. Standout amenities include a luxurious health club with an indoor, rooftop swimming pool and stunning Midtown views from floor to ceiling windows.
There is only one Plaza. It's hard to think of another hotel that has such a legendary name. Glitzy, historic and grand, the Plaza remains a unique experience. The rooms vary from standard with lavish park views to spectacular suites. All guests have access to the Oak Room Bar and Palm Court.
The St. Regis Club is a separate hotel located on floors 19 through 39 of the Essex House. It was created for those that demand the very best in luxury and service. The old world charm of the 1931 building and the white glove service is sufficient to meet even the most discerning demands. Located in the lobby is the five-star Alain Ducasse restaurant.
One of New York's Grand Dames of luxury. This century-old landmark was long associated with Colonel J. Astor. Being an Astor he knew that only the best would do. To this day the marble, gilt and crystal appointments are impeccably maintained. The service is exceptional. Not to mention, The King Cole bar is one of the city's most treasured drinking haunts. This is one of Manhattan's finest hotels.
Time Hotel
Address: 224 West 49th Street
Phone: 212-246-5252
Website: www.thetimeny.com
Located right near the heart of Times Square, this 19-story boutique hotel is inundated with splashy primary colors. Each of its rooms are named and decorated around an individual color, down to the towels and complimentary jelly beans. There is also a fitness room on site.