The Bowery Hotel

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At times more bootleg than boutique, this property from haute-hoteliers Eric Goode and Sean MacPherson (the team behind the Maritime Hotel and the Waverly Inn) conveys a sense of nostalgia—via threadbare carpets and velvet upholstery—without sacrificing modern creature comforts like free wi-fi, iPod docks, and flatscreen TVs. Most of the 135 rooms afford generous views of East Village tenements thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, while some terrace suites have the added perk of outdoor hot tubs. The ghosts of the namesake boulevard still poke their heads up from time to time: In its opening months, a knife fight broke out on the hotel’s sidewalk. No guests were hurt, and judging by the 100 percent occupancy rate immediately after, neither was the hotel’s reputation. The 19th century cemetery espied from the breakfast verandah is not necessarily a sign of things to come. — Tara Kilachand

Pros
Walking distance from Soho, Nolita, and East Village; cool amenities (weather updates in the elevators; wide assortment of literature); discreet service.

Cons
Dingy, airless corridors; no health club; questionable neighbors.

Weddings
Although the building is new, its 10,000-square-foot second-floor space feels comfortably lived-in. A wedding here will be chic (guests enter via a private entrance), but it may also be a bit of a hassle. Certain pieces of furniture (like the pool table) can’t be removed. The Bowery can’t be rented more than six months in advance, so it’s perfect for those working within a shorter time frame. No outside catering. Prices upon request.

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