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Royalton, a Morgans Original

New York, New York

About your stay

By Alexander Basek, Jetsetter Correspondent

This hotel is Jetsetter verified

Our editors have been here and it has met our standards.

95%

Recommended by 95% of 418 members.

Read 212 member reviews

A few blocks north of Bryant Park and a few blocks west of Grand Central, the Royalton takes a hip spin on a neighborhood known for its conservative streak. Forward-thinking design and a secret, clubby vibe makes the 168-room hotel a modern anchor in the center of the city, and the lobby bar, with its floating gas fireplaces in the walls and positively lethal martinis, make for a popular hangout.

Royalton, a Morgans Original

Jetsetter review

This Midtown property, originally designed by Philippe Stark and given a 2007 re-fresh by Roman and Williams, keeps its cards close to the vest. Floating gas fireplaces in the walls, sleek leather couches and positively lethal martinis make the lobby at the Royalton a popular after-work hangout with the publishing and media set. But during the day, if you walk past the heavy wood doors and into the cocoonlike lobby, you could easily stroll past the check-in desk.

Likewise, the elevators are painted to blend into the wall, not stand apart. These secretive touches give the Royalton an insidery, clubby feel,
Beds are recessed slightly into the wall, creating a canopy over the head and more space.as if you need a password instead of a keycard to get into your room.

Upstairs, the guestrooms maintain that cozy feel. Cushy beds have dark wood canopies and are built into the wall, and there are portholes for knickknacks (your phone, a book) that surround the top third of the bed — so much more fun that yet another nightstand. The color scheme is cool and calming, with royal blue throw blankets, gray couches and carpeting and Eames executive chairs.

The design cracks a smile only in the bathrooms, which boast a stainless steel stool in front of the mirror — for those who spend a lot of time prepping for a night out. Some come with an oversize circular shower and tub with iridescent tiles — for those who want to spend the night in.

Ultimately, the Royalton is representative of the next generation of boutique hotels, combining style and functionality. And just because the check-in desk is somewhat hidden doesn’t mean the staff is. On the contrary, staff members are friendly and efficient.

In a part of New York that’s known for being conservative, the Midtown Royalton benefits from user-friendly, forward-thinking design. It’s a club worth the price of admission.

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What to do

  • Train Station Icon. Slurp bivalves under Guastavino tile at Grand Central Oyster Bar before taking a train upstate or just heading out for the night.
  • Suit Up. Look the part after a stop at Paul Stuart, the suit shop for business types too cool for Brooks Brothers and J. Press.
  • Lobby Libations. Lush lighting, comfy couches and killer cocktails set the tone at the Royalton’s Bar 44. Start your night here, or stop by later for a nightcap.
  • Get Cultured. Fine art, a rotating selection of exhibitions and a Danny Meyer restaurant are just blocks away at MoMA.
  • Find Hidden Treasure. In the main branch of the New York Public Library, seek out the main reading room, which has soaring 52-foot ceilings, arched windows, brass lamps and grand chandeliers. You don’t need a library card to admire the historic spot.

All tips and reviews are available to members.

Member Reviews (212)

First-hand knowledge from members who’ve been here on a Jetsetter trip.

  • What I liked

    The rooms were very comfortable and clean, and the staff were friendly. The location was excellent - close to restaurants and Times Square.

    What I disliked

    Nothing, although I would recommend this hotel more for adults than families. We traveled with young children and while it met our needs, we felt there was an adult vibe.

    Janet L     17 days ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    The Royalton is in a great location and the staff is amazing!

    What I disliked

    The bathrooms are very dark (as is the hotel in general) which makes makeup application a challenge.

    Elizabeth H     27 days ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    Room was nice

    What I disliked

    Bad service (check in was 2 hours late), no water in the rooms, bar closed at 10.30pm!

    Katja M     5 months ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    Hotel style, decor and set up.

    What I disliked

    Housekeeping was not friendly when we requested an additional towels and she told us its check out time. Never recieved towels but I would have to say Housekeeping should still cater to the customer and not worry so much about kicking customers from the room.

    Carey W     2 years ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    location in Theater District

    Caroline C     1 year ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    The size of the room was very large for a New York hotel.

    What I disliked

    There was no view from the room -- we could only see the ugly side of the building next door from the room.

    Charlene W     1 year ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    the rooms

    What I disliked

    the bar and reception areas are too dark. the doorman was not helpful at all

    michele d     11 months ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    Location was hard to beat. Phenomenal Hotel.

    James K     1 year ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    Big, beautiful well-appointed room. Cool bathroom. Great location and a very friendly staff

    Ann T     9 months ago
    This was helpful

  • What I liked

    The tub and shower were incredible. Concierge was helpful and upgraded my room upon request.

    What I disliked

    Hotel was a bit dark.

    Ram B     2 years ago
    This was helpful

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