New York City (Fodor's, 2012) - Fodor's [254]
Muse Hotel.
$ | Fresh off a 2009 renovation, the Muse is a bit more staid than it once was. Yes, the Surrealist prints and busts of Thalia, the muse of comedy, remain, and so do the cheeky robes—now they’re zebra print; rooms, however, are slightly toned down, in black and cream. The new restaurant, Nios, is one of the better contemporary Greek spots in the city, and overall Kimpton has given a nice shine to their property. It’s also very pet-friendly—there’s even a Pomeranian concierge to greet guests and their furry friends. Six rooms have balconies, and three spa suites have deep hot tubs and separate showers. Pros: contemporary interiors; good Midtown location; pet-friendly. Cons: street noise; small gym. TripAdvisor: “friendly and accomodating staff,” “wine hour,” “amazing room service.” | 130 W. 46th St., between 6th and 7th Aves., Midtown West | 10036 | 212/485–2400 or 877/692–6873 | www.themusehotel.com | 200 rooms, 19 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: restaurant, room service, bar, gym, laundry service, Internet terminal, Wi-Fi hotspot, parking (paid), some pets allowed | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: B, D, F, M to 47th–50th Sts./Rockefeller Center.
Fodor’s Choice | Plaza Hotel.
$$$$ | Eloise’s adopted home on the corner of Central Park, the Plaza is back in the hotel game after a $450 million renovation. Some, but not all, of the rooms were turned into condos, and the hallways are now narrower, as they don’t have to accommodate two ladies in full skirts passing each other at the same time anymore. Once again, the hotel is host to all manner of dignitaries, moneymakers, and royalty, as befits one of New York’s most storied hotels. Service is a centerpiece, with white-glove butlers for each guest room and suite and a portable touch screen in each room for contacting the concierge or just turning down the lights. The rooms themselves strike a balance between old-fashioned and modern: yes, there are flat-screen televisions, iPod docks, and a DVD player, but the design is old school, with opulent gold-leaf fixtures, a faux-fur throw on the bed’s Mascioni linens, and big, Beaux-Arts-style headboards. The Oak Room has experienced chef turnover and inconsistent food, but a drink at the Oak Bar, with its wood filigrees looking better than ever, is still a joy. A new food court in the basement, helmed by celebrity chef Todd English, offers everything from flatbread pizzas and sushi to tapas, wines, and an excellent raw bar, and is one of the more appealing lunchtime food choices in the neighborhood. An Eloise-theme tea at the Palm Court began in 2010. The expansive Vinothérapie spa includes a hammam (Turkish bath) and a wine lounge. Pros: historic property; great hotel bar; lavish rooms. Cons: rooms aren’t that big for the money; Oak Room restaurant is pricey. TripAdvisor: “staff well-trained in hospitality,” “excellent shopping outside door,” “extremely comfortable beds.” | 768 5th Ave., at Central Park S, Midtown West | 10019 | 212/759–3000 | www.theplaza.com | 282 rooms, 102 suites | In-room: a/c, safe, DVD, Wi-Fi. In-hotel: 2 restaurants, room service, bar, gym, spa, laundry service, Wi-Fi hotspot | AE, D, DC, MC, V | Subway: N, R to 59th St.
Renaissance Hotel.
$ | After a $26 million refresh headed by designer Jordan Mozer, the Renaissance shifted in fall 2009 from all business to wacky and whimsical, and it’s a rather enjoyable move. Rooms are carpeted in earth tones with blue headboards and mosaic tile showers. Little touches, like flat-screen televisions and elegant metal vases, round out the look. The theme continues in the lobby, with copper wall coverings and space-age light fixtures. The R Lounge restaurant serves standard American grub, though the space is more about the view than the cuisine. Pros: contemporary design; latest in-room technology. Cons: in the heart of the Square: pandemonium isn’t for everyone; over-the-top design not for everyone. TripAdvisor: “real boutique vibe,” “spacious and clean rooms,” “conveniently located.” |