9. Hotel Hugo
525 Greenwich Street, SoHo
On the far western edge of Soho at the top of Hotel Hugo is Azul rooftop, Soho’s soulful Cuban cantina. With vintage posters, plant life and plenty of colors, it’s as if Azul was plucked from Old Havana itself and placed in New York, then sprinkled with a bit of Lower Manhattan glam in the form of plush white banquettes and fairy lights. It’s Havana meets NYC style. The food and drink menus are short and sweet, and for us, that’s perfect, as it leaves no room for confusion. Guacamole and chips, tacos (grilled steak, grilled fish and organic rotisserie pulled chicken) and cocktails make for a very enjoyable night on the rooftop. With 360-degree views of Lower Manhattan while you eat and drink there’s really nothing to complain about, except maybe the New York prices. Killer cocktails include the frozen passion fruit mojito, The Hugo (St Germaine, fresh lime, fresh mint, prosecco) and La Chula (avia cachaça, guava nectar, fresh lime juice).
Note: Azul is closed during winter. Backup plan: head to enclosed Bar Hugo instead. Sitting 20 floors above ground (same as Azul), this bar blends contemporary luxury with bohemian chic. Think glass doors and windows, concrete, chrome and luxe leather finishes. This dazzling space will keep you warm without compromising on views. If that’s not enough of an incentive to get you there, happy hour takes place daily between 5pm and 8pm, something we love them for
Hotel Hugo sits among NYC’s fashionable SoHo neighbourhood, a mecca for shopping lovers. Guests are right on the doorstep of many famous shopping strips such as Bleecker, Greene and Mercer Street. With the Hudson River and many museums only a stone’s throw away, guests can wander the streets for hours on end. Hotel Hugo exudes the contemporary luxury and bohemian chic that this part of Lower Manhattan is renowned for. With hotel amenities and services including Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, a 37-square metre Fitness Studio, express check-in/check-out, this hotel has all you could want on your holiday.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$175-US$473
Guest Rating: 8.3