VIBE

When it first opened over a decade ago, the Soho Grand was the only boutique hotel in this corner of town, and it quickly became a hub for the ever-so-edgy creative types flocking to the area’s ubiquitous lofts. Time flies, and in boutique years, Soho Grand’s now starting to enter grandmother territory. Fortunately, this one is a good-looking granny. The trendsetter scene is as hot as ever in the incredible public spaces, where classic SoHo industrial-chic is adeptly melded with plush luxury (a recent revamp by designer William Sofield updated the look), and the rooms remain coolly luxurious. Service is phenomenal, and the concierge is ever-so attuned to what’s happening in the artsy-trendy neighborhood: they can get you into everything from exclusive clubs to underground performance art (as well as standard fare like Broadway productions and Michelin-starred restaurants).

GO HERE WITH

Beautiful people; significant other - for living la vida hipster; colleagues - to make use of the chic public spaces; friends - for a wild SoHo weekend; family - for the fabulous kid-friendly perks; pets

WHY WE LIKE IT

Ok, so the neutral standard rooms are nothing to rave about (though we have to admit the beds are super comfy), but the public areas are gorgeous (as are the beautiful people swanning about in them). The service is incredible (we love the “One-Touch” buttons in-room, with anything you want just the touch of a bell away), and the location is perfect if trendy gallery-hopping, shopping, and nightlife are your things (as they are ours!).

AMENITY WE LOVE

The amazingly well-connected concierge. Seriously, they can get you in anywhere.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Rooms are on the small side and a bit dull (more zip in the design, please!). Avoid the noisy rooms near the bar.

GOOD TO KNOW

Pets are more than welcome (they offer amenities like pet limos, vet services, day care, and “peti-care” grooming for the four-legged set). If you don’t have your own pet in tow, you can borrow a goldfish (a quirky yet adorable bonus for those in need of constant companions). Borrowing seems to be the trend here: in addition to the Apple computers provided in each of the larger suite-style rooms, guests can also request iPods and iPads. Kids are well catered for, with age-appropriate welcome gifts, room service kid menus, and complimentary in-room child-proofing before your arrival. Complimentary bicycles are available for adventurous souls looking for an alternative to the subway. Valet parking, express check-out, and a 24-hour business center are available. Onsite event spaces are appropriate for everything from intimate gatherings to major conferences. The location is convenient for Tribeca, Greenwich Village, the Meatpacking District, Chinatown, Wall Street, and New York University.

CLOSEST COMPS

Tribeca Grand (New York); The Mercer (New York); Empire Hotel (New York)