A small, historic boutique hotel in the heart of the city, the house bar, The Alchemy Room, can be quite mobbed. The hotel, however, is mellow and refined with dark woods and subtle lighting. Rooms are on the small side, but beautifully furnished.
Morgan's Hotel
Address: 237 Madison Avenue (between East 37th & 38th Street)
Phone: 212-686-0300
Website: www.morganshotel.com
One of the forefathers of the slick and stylish boutique hotel, the rooms tend to be a little smaller than average. Yet the aesthetic screams of modern cool. The ultra-trendy Asia de Cuba is located downstairs and Morgan's Bar still gets a good martini crowd.
The Kitano
Address: 66 Park Avenue (at East 38th Street)
Phone: 212-885-7000
Website: kitano.com
The Asian influence of this chain is reflected throughout. The rooms are thoroughly modern and somewhat minimalist. There are excellent city views from several guest quarters. Guests may choose from Western or Asian style rooms designed in centuries-old Japanese style.
The Library
Address: 299 Madison Avenue (at East 38th Street)
Phone: 212-983-4500
Website: www.libraryhotel.com
This elegant boutique hotel carries the library concept to great lengths. The rooms each have a specific literary theme, which runs the gamut from erotic literature to the classics. There is also an area for guests called "The Writer's Den" located on the 14th floor that adjoins an outdoor terrace. The overall aesthetic is one of quiet and subdued luxury.