With over 30 years in the travel industry, Jeanne Bosse knows a thing or two about off-the-beaten-path destinations. Here she helps us find the best boutique hotels NYC has to offer.
Planning to visit NYC and looking to find a hotel that doesn’t overwhelm in size? Not a problem. Here’s just a small cross-section of the numerous NYC boutique hotels, listed from north to south of Manhattan island (including a bonus in Brooklyn). Be sure to check each hotel website for current Covid-19 procedures in place, complying with NYC regulations.
UPPER EAST SIDE - The Lowell Hotel
28 E 63rd St, New York, NY
Tucked away on a quaint Upper East Side street, the Lowell is a genuine retreat. With a quiet atmosphere of discretion and privacy, it’s understandable why low-key celebs and notables who don’t need to be seen stay here. And, unique to the 1927 building, the majority of the rooms are suites; 47 to 27 deluxe rooms. While no two are exactly alike, all are elegant but comfortable, and 14 include terraces. Adding to the residential feel, kitchens can be found in many of the rooms and suites, and 33 feature wood-burning fireplaces, for which you can pick your own
scent. A creative French-Moroccan seasonal menu is found at the beautiful Majorelle Restaurant. Perfect for those wanting a quiet getaway near some of NYC’s finest museums and designer shopping is sure to be happy here. Your pet is welcome and you can order for them from a special menu and book Lowell’s dog walking service. Or walk them yourself in nearby Central Park. Look elsewhere if the Lowell is too far uptown or if you need to “be seen.”
MIDTOWN - Andaz Fifth Avenue
485 5th Avenue At, E 41st Street, New York, New York
Across from the historic New York Public Library building, the Andaz Fifth Avenue is a contemporary retreat in the center of Manhattan. Inside, a personal greeter handles check-in from a laptop, and the lobby features a guest lending library, a complimentary coffee and tea set-up in the morning, and a complimentary wine hour in the evening. Despite the minimalist furnishings, the 184 rooms and suites are full of details; rich woods, slate, large marble bathrooms, (the only one that includes a bathtub), contemporary art, and huge windows. Even the standard guest rooms are larger than most NYC hotel rooms and the suites offer balconies or large terraces. However, beware if you need lots of closet space as the tiny glass closets won’t even hold a suitcase. Just behind the Public Library is Bryant Park, with outdoor movies, concerts with ice skating, and a holiday shopping bazaar in the winter. Perfect for theatre-goers and luxury shopping who don’t require a quiet location. Also, the corporate traveler, who can work comfortably in this sophisticated, contemporary, yet intimate atmosphere.
CHELSEA - The Highline Hotel
80 10th Avenue (at 20th Street, New York, New York
Unless you’ve walked south on the Highline or explored the art galleries in West Chelsea, you might not be aware of The Highline Hotel. This 1895 Gothic building was originally part of the Episcopal seminary on the other side of the backyard courtyard and garden. Combined with family and dog-friendly policies (including complimentary treats), a residential atmosphere prevails. Each of the 60 rooms and suites has period details such as antique furnishing and rugs, original wood molding, and beautifully restored floors. The front of the hotel features Daisy’s Cocktail Garden with a central water feature, open through the end of October. While there is no gym or year-round restaurant, Equinox passes are offered and several restaurants are steps away. Shinola bicycles with baskets and helmets are available for free rental. Perfect for families and/or dog lovers who enjoy the historic architecture and the charm of the neighborhood. Look elsewhere if you need an onsite gym or restaurant.
SOHO - The Crosby Street Hotel
79 Crosby Street, New York, New York
Although part of the British hotel company Firmdale, this trendy yet vibrant hotel seems right at home in Soho. Noted designer Kit Kemp presents a contemporary take on traditional interiors, with plenty of colors and unique modern and folk art pieces. (Art enthusiasts can book a private, guided tour of the collection.) Each of the 86 rooms and suites provides a residential feeling with no two alike. While the Crosby Bar and Terrace are open to all, the beautiful interior Sculpture Garden is only used by guests and friends. Fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, and herbs come from the Rooftop Kitchen Garden and chicken coop. Film buffs will appreciate the comfortable, state-of-the-art Screening Room featuring regular film nights. Perfect for those who enjoy being surrounded by art and creativity and some of NYC’s best downtown restaurants, since it is in the center of Soho. Look elsewhere if you prefer a corporate location and monochromatic, minimalist interiors.
WILLIAMSBURG, BROOKLYN - The William Vale Hotel
111 North 12th St, Brooklyn, New York
Brooklyn has become a destination unto itself—especially trendy, creative Williamsburg, home of the William Vale, built by a Brooklyn architect. While the imposing contemporary building opened in 2016 doesn’t suggest boutique, the 183 rooms and suites of the William Vale are on 10 floors with retail space below. The 11th-floor rooftop offers green space for picnicking called Vale Park, film screenings, and a 60-foot pool that becomes an ice rink in the winter. Guests enjoy floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies in each of the rooms and suites. The decor is minimalist but comfortable with warm wood tones and bright, bold contemporary art by local artists. And unparalleled views of Manhattan and the New York Harbor. Perfect for those looking to explore the creative energy of Williamsburg. Pet-owners can also bring two pets up to 50 pounds and exercise them on the dog run in McCarren Park, one block away. Look elsewhere if you are a corporate traveler or anyone expecting a traditional hotel experience.
Follow Jeanne’s adventures, from her native NYC to around the globe, via her Instagram @jeanne.bosse.
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