How does one even begin to choose a hotel in NYC? A few helpful suggestions: think about location, price, and size. (This is exactly how New Yorkers choose apartments.) To find all three often feels impossible, but the Joie de Vivre's Park South Hotel hits all the marks. Here's our review.
The Basic
Budget Level: Upscale (rates start at $199/night)
Lodging Type: Large Hotel (100+ rooms)
What You Need To Know
The Look
A boutique Art Deco hotel in NYC's NoMad neighborhood feels almost if you're staying in your very own Manhattan apartment. The property is housed in a renovated 1906 landmark building and features a lobby with oversized sofas and the check-in desk. Across the way, the library has a working fireplace, plenty of seating, and a collection of culinary-themed books curated by Kitchen Arts & Letters, a beloved Upper East Side bookstore. It's a perfectly cozy place to settle in.
Contemporary photographs by Nicole Capobianco line the property's walls and represent iconic NYC parks, including the High Line, Central Park, Bryant Park, Madison Square Park, Union Square, Washington Square Park, and Battery Park.
The guestrooms here are fairly plain (though large by NYC standards) and have super-comfy beds. There's a desk for working, robes and slippers, and an oversized bathroom with a rain shower and Jonathan Adler products.
The Vibe
The spaces are relaxing but totally business-friendly. We saw a handful of road warriors during our stay, as well as those visiting to tour the city. Young professionals spread out in the lobby with laptops.
Who Will Love It
Anyone who wants to stay far from the tourist-choked properties in and around Times Square. The property is still central to everything, but has a distinctively local vibe. Food lovers will be highly impressed by the on-site restaurant options.
Who Might Not
Those looking for the standard chain hotel or a property in the heart of Times Square might be disappointed.
Best Amenity
Dining options. This hotel is for foodies foremost. o ya, a contemporary Japanese restaurant is well-regarded by locals and boasts an 18- or 24-course tasting menu. There's also Covina Bar & Restaurant, which serves American-Mediterranean food and has a daily happy hour from 3-6 p.m. and the food and drinks are a steal. There's a Wagyu burger for $9.50, truffle fries for $7, and $8 cocktails. The property also has a coffee shop and seasonal rooftop bar where locals and guests gather to sip evening drinks around the fireplace.
What’s Included
Wifi, access to the hotel's 24-hour gym, and a complimentary token to enjoy a complimentary beer or wine at Covina from 5 p.m.to 6 p.m. daily.
Money Matters
Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About
Parking is $45-$55 per 24 hours.
How to Get a Deal
The hotel's website has a dedicated deals page. We found rooms mid-Jan for around $240 per night. Currently, the hotel is offering 25 percent off rooms and a "rise and shine" breakfast package.
Getting There
In the Neighborhood
The Park South Hotel is located in the NoMad neighborhood of NYC. Here, you'll get the convenience of a Midtown location without the crowds and congestion. Nearby is Madison Square Park, along with loads of dining and shopping. Nearby transportation hubs include the 6 train at Park Avenue and 28th, Penn Station, Path trains, and Grand Central Station.
The Bottom Line
Feel like a local in this central, chic hotel.