New York City

iStock International

Bowery Hotel

Expert Review

With the opening of their Bowery Hotel in early 2007, Eric Goode and Sean
MacPherson (of Maritime Hotel fame) played a major role in the transformation
of the Bowery – an infamously derelict downtown street – from skid
row to hipster haven. The boho-chic décor – old Oriental rugs and
velvet chairs intermingling with Restoration Hardware-like furniture – is
as motley as its in-the-know clientele. In the rooms, iPod stereos, flat-screen
TVs, DVD players, and free Wi-Fi meet techie standards, while 400-thread-count
sheets, C.O. Bigelow bath products, and 24-hour room service satisfy hedonist
expectations. You won't get particularly pampered here (despite the high
price), but the 135 spacious rooms – a rarity in Manhattan – and
buzzing atmosphere (with hopping restaurant and bar scenes that draw locals)
are worth the pretty penny.