CITYist

While new hotels like The Standard, The Trump Soho and The Andaz always attract a young and modern crowd, sometimes it’s good to step outside of the trendy zone and check into some of New York’s gems. To get a feel of the foundation of what New York is made of, I’m staying at some of these iconic boutique properties operated by HK hotels, at various locations around the city to see what they offer, and how hotel customer service existed when gentlemen were polite, and it was always, Ladies First.

While new properties always give me the feel of Miami or Beverly Hills, I’m on the search to feel like a classic New Yorker. The Hotel Elysee was a great start as it’s an ornate dream. The European-style, 1920s built jewel in the East 50s is the type of place you would stay if you were having an illicit and high-priced affair with Don Drapper in Mad Men. The suite is one of the largest rooms you will find in New York, complete with a large living room, separate bedroom and even a kitchen. Sad to say, with the legendary Monkey Bar downstairs, we weren’t exactly doing much cooking. Brad, the hotel conciegre was more than helpful with securing us a reservation at a desirable hour, and cocktails at the Monkey Bar were enjoyed much more knowing that out spacious and delectable suite was upstairs. Although this hotel is certainly out of another era, the bed and bath were complete with modern amenities made this New York stay a glamoropus journey back in time. The hotel is located at 60 E. 54th St. between Madison and Park, and reservations can be made by calling (212) 753-1066.