11 Howard

11 Howard has a target in mind with its no-fuss, all-style approach to hospitality: The traveler that appreciates quality and substance, but who doesn't need doting service at every turn. That starts with checking in, where impeccably coiffed staff casually tap away on iPads while talking you through the hotel's numerous cool features. You do this, of course, while standing around a round slab table under towering ceilings and warm lighting. It's minimalism, executed thoroughly, though despite the laid-back approach to everything, you won't be lacking during your stay here. There's a romantic bar, cool restaurant, and handsome co-working space-slash-restaurant all within its walls, drawing a steady mix of locals and tourists alike. That's to say nothing of the hyper-trendy boutique and funky artwork that also call the hotel home. All in, this is a great boutique hotel with tons of style that manages to successfully balance those seeking style and substance in one peaceful package -- and that's not an easy feat in downtown Manhattan. 

Travelers who know that New York's coolest sights are not anywhere near Midtown are in luck here. 11 Howard -- its name is the same as its address -- occupies a prime piece of downtown real estate at the eastern edge of SoHo. That keeps you just outside of the neighborhood's most tourist-packed streets, but within an easy walk of all of its shopping, dining, and drinking spots. The hotel is also close to Nolita, the high-end SoHo sub-neighborhood that's filled with trendy designer boutiques, bookstores, cafes, cute restaurants, and charming little bars. All of those destinations are within a five- to 10-minute walk from the hotel. You're also within easy reach of Chinatown's frenetic streets, where tons of dining and shopping options are within a 10- to 15-minute walk. Big-ticket destinations are best reached by subway -- the closest stations are on Canal Street, which is one block away. It's a 10-minute ride to the World Trade Center, 15 minutes to Times Square, and 20 minutes to the southern edge of Central Park. Budget 45 to 90 minutes to reach any of the area's airports by public transit or taxi -- traffic can be unpredictable. Penn Station and Grand Central Station are both around a 15-minute trip away by subway. 

The hotel's overall ethos continues in the room, where chic gray and soft coral tones complement one another beautifully across all surfaces. This is minimalism done right, with brass pendant lighting, gray wood accents, and dark leather all sparingly deployed alongside details like wood-block nightstands and eye-catching, singular pieces of art. Amenities are numerous and high-end, including tablet digital concierges with streaming access, 48-inch smart TVs, bespoke minibars, and bluetooth speakers, plus standard features like air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, laptop safes, generous closet space, and -- in many rooms -- plenty of seating. Beds are incredibly comfortable and on the soft side, dressed with Egyptian cotton linens and down duvets. Blackout curtains and great noise insulation also up the likelihood of a good night's sleep. Unfortunately, coffeemakers aren't provided, and coffee is only available for two hours every morning for free in The Library. Bathrooms are particularly handsome, with marble countertops and beautiful brass fixtures. The Good Alchemist bath products (at the time of our 2018 visit) are a lovely perk, and most rooms come with spacious walk-in showers. The highest category rooms, like the Corner Studio and Deluxe Terrace, are the roomiest options in the hotel. The former includes a living area while the latter adds a terrace -- both are found high up on the twelfth floor and have great views of the city skyline. 

11 Howard packs in plenty of on-trend extras that match its sharp style and upscale atmosphere. The hub is up one floor from the street (take the dramatic spiral staircase to make a true entrance), where The Library and The Blond are both found. The former is a chic living room-esque lounge that doubles as a coworking space, where you'll find locals and guests on their laptops or grabbing a drink day and night. Food and beverages are available there until later evening hours, and free coffee is available here for two hours in the morning for hotel guests. The Blond is the hotel's gorgeous bar that makes a great romantic escape in a hectic part of the city. At street level, Le Cou Cou is the hotel's attractive restaurant that serves French fare for breakfast and dinner. Bonus points? In-room dining is available and beats most hotel's room service options handily. The hotel also has a small fitness center that's adequate for a basic workout and is free for guests. On the same floor as the gym, you'll find the infrared spa. The saunas here employ light therapy to help facilitate relaxation (or achieve a variety of other ends), though guests of the hotel only receive a discount (i.e., it's not free to use). A cool boutique is found at street level. The hotel does charge a daily amenities fee which affords a daily minibar credit, Wi-Fi access, and discounts at the spa. Even so, it's steep.