Mr & Mrs Smith

The James New York, a towering city hotel, turns heads in one of Manhattan’s most stylish neighbourhoods and it’s not just because it’s the tallest building on the block. Cool-hunters lured by art-covered walls linger over drinks at Jimmy, the rooftop bar, and the working chef’s garden used by the David Burke Kitchen adds eco-love without going full-blown granola.

NEED TO KNOW

• Rooms 114, including five suites.
• Rates Double rooms from USD 299, excluding tax at 14.75 per cent. Please note the hotel charges an additional local city tax of $3.50 per room per night on checkout.
• More details Rates exclude à la carte breakfast (US$18–US$25).
• Facilities Gym, spa, garden and free WiFi throughout. In rooms: flatscreen TV, iPod dock, minibar and Intelligent Nutrients bath products. Bikes are available to borrow and guests can get lifts anywhere between 14th Street and Wall Street in the hotel’s Lexus Hybrid from 7am–10am and 4pm–7pm, weekdays.
• Poolside The rooftop plunge pool is open from 7am to 5pm. Cocktails are served straight to your lounger and the handy tanning concierge will text or give you a light tap when one side’s done cooking.
• Check-out 2pm, but flexible, subject to availability. Early check-ins are also based on availablity.
• Children Little ones will be stylishly cared for with Paul Frank blankets, pyjamas, car seats and colouring books. Babysitting is available on request for US$25 an hour for each child; 24-hour notice is appreciated.
• Eco-friendly In rooms, you’ll find reclaimed wood, and pillows from Keetsa, a sustainable bedding brand.
• Also The James is in cahoots with SoHo pet boutique DoggyStyle to ensure visiting animals are pampered with treats, beds and bowls. The chef has even fashioned menus for foodie felines and picky pups. Dog walkers are also available.