The Mercer

A quiet property despite its location in central Soho, the Mercer is a haven for those looking for an escape that still feels like home.

• The Mercer Kitchen run by Jean-Georges Vongerichten (with 24-hour room service)
• Book-lined walls in the lobby
• Oversized bathtubs in some of the rooms
• Old-fashioned metal room keys

This intimate 74 room hotel, situated in a renovated six-story Romanesque Revival building from 1890, has a simple, contemporary vibe. Its location in the heart of Soho is ideal, and despite the craze of one of Manhattan’s busiest neighborhoods, the hotel exudes peace and quiet. Once guests pass through the discreet entry off Mercer Street, they find themselves in a sparse but chic lobby (bookshelves populated with photography and art books line the walls) with dark wood paneling. Daylight filters into the spacious entry lounge through veiled windows, making the lobby feel at once open and private. When the hotel opened in 1998, its Christian Liagre–conceived décor of dark wengé wooden floors and furnishings, pale-hued walls and well-proportioned rooms created a sensation. Years later, it still looks well kept, if slightly dated.

The Mercer has eleven room categories, so there is an enormous amount of variety, but all feature high ceilings, big windows and a sitting area. Studios and larger rooms boast oversized two-person marble bathtubs, and Loft Studios sport architecturally interesting arched windows (with blackout curtains as an added feature.) Because the guest rooms feature extremely high ceilings, even the smallest feel capacious and airy, although slightly uninspired. The gym is open 24 hours by appointment only and trainers are available upon request.

Anyone looking for privacy and large rooms, who doesn’t mind the lack of extra amenities and minimal views.