Hotels

Soho is not known for its wide pavements, which means that there can be little room to breathe when the masses descend. Near the hustle – but just far enough from the bustle – is the Crosby Street Hotel. It’s set back from the street, making it feel a little bit like the larger, grander hotels uptown. However, that’s where the comparisons end. Each of the hotel’s 86 rooms has its own unique décor, while the mannequins in every room are a clear nod to the surrounding fashion businesses. A variety of further nice touches tie to some of the Crosby’s sister hotels in London. Designer and co-owner Kit Kemp knew that these details would help set the properties apart. 

Once you check in, enjoy the Crosby Bar’s afternoon-tea service in the leafy courtyard. Or take some time to notice the canine theme that runs throughout the property, especially the painted mug of a mongrel that’s hung to greet guests at reception. But don’t be fooled, this place hasn’t gone to the dogs. The management assures us the mutt-related art merely reflects the abundance of four-legged friends that nearby residents keep as pets.

Tribeca’s Greenwich Hotel is designed to provide guests with every comfort that they would expect from a luxury stay while making them feel right at home. You’ll get the impression that you’re staying in someone’s guest room thanks to spaces that are all different, right down to the changing textiles and marble work in the bathrooms. From the Japanese-inspired Shibui spa (open Thursday to Monday from 09.00 to 21.00) and private yoga sessions, to the guest-only drawing room and courtyard, this warmly lit, rustic-style hotel will make you forget that you’re still on the bustling island of Manhattan. 

If you’re searching for a premium stay, opt for the penthouse. The rooftop sanctuary has three bedrooms as well as a huge expanse of outdoor space. And if you want to mix things up a little? Drop by the restaurant, featuring urban Italian cooking by Andrew Carmellini.

The UK’s Firmdale Hotels group, which also owns the Crosby Street Hotel, has headed up to Midtown and injected a much-needed dose of colour and fun into its accommodation scene. The Whitby is perfect for either a business stay or a weekend getaway, with an excellent bar and restaurant (albeit at Midtown prices) and classically designed rooms – opt for a suite if you can. As always with Firmdale, there are plenty of quirky design details drawing on co-founder Kit Kemp’s global travels. These include an antique Indian door that has been turned into a table, and an African-inspired artwork next to reception by Dutch-born artist Carla Kranendonk.