Blocks from the Apollo Theater and some of Harlem's best restaurants
Two-room property in a charming converted brownstone
Warm and friendly host makes guests truly feel at home
Rooms are clean and homey, with personal touches
Lovely garden on-site
Free coffee and tea in the lobby
Free Wi-Fi
Far from most major tourist sights
Not all rooms have a private bathroom
Few on-site amenities
The owner -- and namesake -- of this two-room property comes from France and caters largely to her compatriots. Michelle resides in the basement apartment while her guests have the first floor to themselves. The two rooms are comfortable and bright, overlooking either a quiet brownstone-lined block of Harlem or Michelle's private backyard garden. Only the front room -- named after John Lennon -- has a private bathroom. The other (named for James Dean) has access to a bathroom in the hallway. There are no other amenities on-site, but the overall homey vibe, solid rates, and proximity to the famous Apollo Theater make this an attractive B&B option in New York City.
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Scene
Home sweet home in Harlem
Chez Michelle is located on a quiet, brownstone-lined street in Harlem. Walking up to front door feels quite like a homecoming, a vibe that is quickly expanded upon by Michelle, the host and owner of the property who lives in the basement apartment of the brownstone with her two cats. Warm and friendly, she is quick to converse and share secrets of the neighborhood and the city at large. Originally from France, she caters largely to French-speakers and her compatriots.There are few amenities on-site, just a garden, a small library, and coffee and tea in the lobby. The vibe is definitely very do-it-yourself and homey. And with just two rooms on-site, guests are guaranteed lots of personal attention and privacy.
Location
In Harlem, blocks from the Apollo Theater and a 10-minute walk from Columbia University
On a quiet block in Harlem lined with brownstones, Chez Michelle feels like its truly part of the neighborhood. Harlem is known for its rich culture, epitomized by the famous Apollo Theater, located just a few blocks from Chez Michelle. This part of the neighborhood is known for its charming brownstones and delicious restaurants -- Marcus Samuelsson’s famous Red Rooster is located two blocks away, as is Sylvia's. Columbia University is a 10-minute walk, making this a convenient home base for those visiting the campus.
Rooms
An intimate, two-room property
There are just two rooms at Chez Michelle. They are large and bright, with windows overlooking the garden or street, and the homey style may make it feel more like visiting a relative's home than staying at a hotel. They're not quite luxurious, but certainly cozy. The John Lennon Room is the slightly nicer option, offering a bay window overlooking the street, chandelier, wood floors, rich Oriental rug, and private bathroom. The James Dean Room has a small lending library of books and a linen closet. It lacks a private bathroom, requiring guests step out into the hall. Hairdryers are provided, as is soap.
Features
A garden and little else
Chez Michelle isn't big on amenities. The garden is largely Michelle's domain, but she will often invite guests to breakfast there. In the petite lobby area, guests have access to an array of books (in both French and English), a fridge, microwave, and coffee and tea station. Free Wi-Fi is provided, as is breakfast (this is a B&B, after all).
