Row NYC hotel shines amongst the trendy, contemporary accommodation options available in Times Square, the heart of the big city. It’s the perfect combination of comfort and style, at a price that won’t drain your budget for attractions and entertainment.
I should disclose that I have a “long-distance love affair” with New York. Perhaps more than anywhere else in the United States, the Big Apple radiates an energy of possibility and excitement. There’s always something new to try, and something big going on. Making the pilgrimage several times a year, I’ve stayed at over a dozen properties and the Row NYC hotel is by far the best balance of location, quality and price.
If you like being in the middle of the action – you’ll love Row NYC. Located in world-famous Times Square, it’s just a short walk from Broadway and Central Park. This central location makes it easy to access all that Manhattan has to offer. There are literally hundreds of great restaurants and attractions within walking distance. I found the iMac lounge incredibly helpful in grabbing recommendations before hitting the streets.
Upon arrival to Row NYC you’re immediately met with an awe-inspiring lobby. With its contemporary style, guests are welcomed to an modern oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Plus, the staff is incredible. During my recent stay, Marcel made sure that check-in was a breeze, noting that my request for a room on a higher floor with a view was prepared before arrival.
Row NYC is anything but a cookie cutter, big brand hotel. The property, originally built in 1928 has reinvented itself in New York City charm in its recent, masterful redevelopment. Each room, carefully planned, is quite comfortable in a city notorious for tiny accommodations. Clean lines, and fresh cotton linens go a long way to create a perfect escape from the constant hustle of the street below. For just over $200/nt in the early Spring, the Row NYC hotel is a remarkable deal.
The hotel lobby hosts District M, which offers breakfast options from top NYC restaurants Balthazar, Payard and Pain d’Avignon. In the evening it converts to an upbeat bar with a Ron Galella curated digital art gallery, live music and hand-crafted cocktails. My personal favorite: The “You Only Live Twice” take on James Bond’s martini, perfectly dirty with blue cheese olives. For food, try their melted leek and roasted mushroom pizza. It’s made Neapolitan-style and is outrageously good. Just see some of their reviews on Yelp.
If you’re in the mood for some of New York’s iconic bites, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at City Kitchen. The hip, indoor food market offers 9 different tastes including Azuki (sushi), Sigmund’s Pretzels and my personal favorite, Gabriela’s Taqueria. Their chorizo breakfast burrito is the perfect way to start a big day in the City. Since it’s opening in early 2015, it’s become a popular spot for New Yorkers and tourists alike. Guests of the Row NYC hotel can easily access City Kitchen’s lively commons through the hotel’s lobby entrance.
City Kitchen
The location of Row NYC alone makes it a great home base for exploring Manhattan, sharing the same block as Broadway icons such as the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre and the Majestic Theatre. Still, this hotel finds a way to delight through its metropolitan personality and chic bedrooms. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of the big city, the Row NYC hotel delivers. I’ll definitely be staying there again.
A Few Basic Facts
Located at 700 8th Avenue, Row NYC is located just a block away from Times Square, a few short blocks from Penn Station, the subway, and Port Authority Bus Terminal and a 30 to 40 minute taxi to LaGuardia, JFK and Newark. In 2010, the property underwent a $140 million redevelopment, fully updating its 1,331 rooms, lobby, restaurant and cocktail bar.