You don’t have to be a member to stay at this buzzing New York outpost that originated in London. Although, Soho House New York is a private members' club with 24 unique rooms that mix “cozy English townhouse with cool Manhattan loft” design. A stay here is worth it in the summer months when the roof deck pool is open! If you like the meat-packing area and a “buzzy” atmosphere – this could be your special spot. Soho House New York offers so much more than a typical hotel.
The hotel is great for both business and pleasure. The 5th floor drawing room is perfect for business meetings, working away solo, and additional meeting rooms can be booked. Fun for a weekend of shopping, some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes are within minutes by foot. Whether with a lover or solo, Soho House New York provides an environment that is comfortable with a relaxed sense of elegance. Kids are allowed, but in my opinion, you’re better off not bringing them!
One of the most memorable moments from my stay was arriving in my room. The amazing loft-like suite had exposed brick walls, the most gorgeous Louis IV style bed and a deep, egg-shaped free-standing tub. I thought, "Now this is NYC at its funkiest best!" Any season is a good time to stay at Soho House New York. During spring and summer, the roof deck pool and bar are great features. The spa is cozy and the screening room is lovely to tuck in on chillier days and nights. However, guests should be aware of a few things when opting to stay at this venue.
I recommend guests get an understanding of the meat-packing area if otherwise unfamiliar. It is not for everyone, but those who like it tend to not want to stay elsewhere in the city. The High Line is minutes away for an inspiring jog or walk, however there is no gym in the hotel/ club – your key gets you into the Standard Hotel gym two minutes walk away. As a hotel guest you can attend member lectures, hang out in the bar, and enjoy “communal breakfast” in the kitchen which is fun, different and homey.
It’s good to note this hotel attracts a media and entertainment-centric crowd. You probably don’t want to stay here if you’re a suit-and-tie type who needs Four Seasons or Mandarin level service and attention. WiFi is available throughout and live music is ongoing most nights including evening jazz and a DJ later in the night (I did not hear a peep from my room). Room options include 24 individually designed accommodations to choose from ranging in size from the 325 square-foot Playpen to 950 square-foot Playground. The rooms have a great minibar with a range of goodies and iPads are available upon request. Prices range from $450 per night depending on the season and the room.
Soho House New York features warm and welcoming service and vibe that includes a good mix of celebrities, stylish locals and mostly European visitors. You may not feel like leaving the club or hotel much! Check out the spa, watch a movie in the Screening Room, or play pool in the Games Room. The hotel features a clubby vibe at night with rotating DJs and performances by up-and-coming as well as established artists. Many lectures and readings are held throughout each month. Ask the concierge ahead of your stay to book what you’d like to attend.
The quality of the food has had its ups and downs over the years. While I wouldn’t recommend it for an outstanding culinary experience, it provides good, simple fare for a business lunch or a fun dinner with friends. The cocktails are great and the wines by the glass, excellent. Breakfast is delicious. However, with this prime location, you will find plenty of great restaurants nearby. Some of my recommendations include the following: For lunch, go to Fig & Olive, an industrial-chic restaurant serving Mediterranean light and fresh meals where every dish is accented with a carefully chosen extra virgin olive oil. Kurt Gutenbrunner’s signature restaurant Wallsé serves impeccably prepared, surprisingly light Austrian cuisine.
Per Se and Jean Georges alumn Jesse Schenker’s Recette has a seasonally changing menu of small, creative dishes that are meant for sharing. If you can, go on the second Monday of the month for “Mondays with Jesse” when he creates a seasonal 10-course tasting menu. Morimoto is a five-minute walk away. I’ve never been disappointed by food or ambience at Morimorto. Because Soho House New York is smack in the middle of the Meatpacking District, there are plenty of amazing shopping, dining and sightseeing nearby. Take a walk on the High Line to the galleries in Chelsea or just stroll around the charming cobblestone streets of the West Village with its cute cafés and best-in-class shops. Don’t miss the Chelsea Market one block away, brimming with foodie havens, little cool shops and spots& #151 incredibly atmospheric.
There’s definitely no lack of shopping opportunities nearby, whether that be in the Meatpacking District, nearby West Village or a bit further in Soho. Make sure to check out Jeffrey for designer duds and fab shoes, Elizabeth Charles for trendy and lesser known brands, or the charming boutiques along Bleecker Street between Hudson and Christopher Streets. Want to bring back something for the little ones? Go to Yoya for adorable outfits and cute toys.
For sports and activity, go for a run along nearby Hudson River Park, stroll the High Line or check out Chelsea Piers for almost any sports activity imaginable including a year-round ice rink and rock-climbing. Looking for a killer full-body workout? Take a class or book a personal training session at Aerospace around the corner and don’t be surprised if you run into Adriana Lima or Hugh Jackman! Excellent complimentary hatha style yoga classes are offered at 10 am two days a week in the spa, which is on-site and fairly small. Yet, the comfy Cowshed spa has all the typical spa offerings plus sauna and steam room. See Elena for pedicures, she is the best. For a quick blow-dry, check out Blow salon around the corner on West 14th Street. Want to try a new hairdo? Book an appointment at the Sally Hershberger Salon or Serge Normant at John Frieda nearby.
