The NoMad Hotel New York

The NoMad is housed in a 12-story 1903 Beaux-Arts building, and interiors were done by French designer Jacques Garcia. The hotel design was inspired by the Parisian flat he grew up in, and combine the classic look of grand European hotels with New York City edge. It's impressive that the building was able achieve LEED certification (silver level) for eco-friendliness. Guests (a smattering of international hipsters and couples who want to see and be seen) tend to gather on vintage-inspired furnishings in the dimly lit lobby, or vie for space in the adjacent drawing rooms/bars/restaurants. The dining spaces definitely get crowded with locals and tourists who aren't staying at the hotel, but some of the spaces are occasionally reserved only for hotel guests. The Elephant Bar (named after twin elephant statues that flank the back bar) is an intimate place for bespoke cocktails. Past guests have occasionally complained the public areas are too crowded and, sadly, the rooftop space is just for private events. 

The immediate NoMad ("north of Madison Square") neighborhood isn't half as stylish as the hotel itself, filled with knock-off watch, jewelry, and fragrance emporiums. But the gem-like Madison Square Park (complete with a Shake Shack outpost) and Eataly NYC Flatiron are just a few blocks to the south. Several attractions are within short walking distance, including the Empire State Building. It's easy to hail a taxi just outside the hotel (the doorman will help), and the N/R subway line is just outside the door. 

• Nine-minute walk to Penn Station, Madison Square Garden, and the many subway lines found there
• 11-minute walk to Union Square
• 13-minute walk to Bryant Park
• 22-minute walk to Rockefeller Center or 11 minutes by subway
• 31-minute walk to Central Park or 14 minutes by subway
• 14 minutes by subway to Ground Zero and the Freedom Tower
• 17 minutes by subway to Wall Street
• 30-minute drive to LaGuardia airport
• 45-minute drive to JFK International Airport 

French designer Jacques Garcia paid careful attention to quality and detail when he designed the 168 ultra stylish rooms at NoMad. They almost feel like an Old World European flat, but with luxe extras. The Classic Room features hardwood floors, a mahogany writing desk, Persian-style rug under the king-size bed, and vintage maps on the walls. Most of the Grande Rooms upgrade to more space and a freestanding clawfoot tub outside of the bathroom (there's also a shower in the bathroom). All rooms include free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, daily newspaper delivery, electronic safe, umbrella, ironing board, and iron. Gourmet minibars with snacks, drinks, and luxe toiletries are hidden in vintage steamer trunks. Bathrooms are a bit small, but even the Classic Rooms have a private water closet. Glass showers, single vanities, custom made Argan toiletries, hairdryers, and bathrobes are provided. Some rooms have beautiful views of Manhattan's skyline, but the Classic Rooms face the interior atrium. 

The NoMad Hotel truly shines when it comes to atmospheric dining and drinking. The ground floor (behind the lobby) is divided into five individual, yet connected, dining and drinking spots. The Atrium is the main restaurant for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and 24-hour room service. Its dining space is under an enormous skylight. The menu changes seasonally and can include everything from simple radishes with salt to foie gras. There's also an extensive dessert menu with sweets and cheeses. The Nomad Bar has a more casual menu for lunch and dinner, and an approachable beer and wine menu. The Parlour, Elephant Bar, Fireplace, and Library offer intimate nooks for bespoke cocktails and people watching, but these spaces can get crowded. Staff occasionally reserves seats just for guests. Unfortunately, The Rooftop is only available for private events.

There's a spacious fitness center with a small selection of TechnoGym equipment and strength-training machines. Bikes are free to borrow on a first-come, first-served basis. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Pets are allowed at no additional charge, though there is a 50 pound weight limit. Valet parking is available for a fee.