Profile

Passersby would be hard-pressed to find Chelsea Lodge unless they were really looking for it. But that's kind of the point: Hidden on an especially verdant Chelsea block, this little gem is the ideal spot for a secret rendezvous or a low-key home base for a weekend of gallery-hopping. Housed in a beautiful brownstone that complements its landmark, residential neighbors, the unmarked hotel serves up serenity in the city, with enough antique quilts and whimsical wallpaper to make even Martha Stewart envious. The 22 rooms are on the small side, but that only seems to enhance the quaint, country-in-the-city feel, as do the owners, a friendly husband-and-wife team always on hand with directions to the nearby flea market or Hershey's Kisses to pile under the fluffy pillows. Groups take note: An additional four suites are also available down the block, at 334 W. 20th St. — Amelie Gillette

This reasonably priced place is high on charm and low on pretension in an area where sipping a $12 cocktail in a renovated slaughterhouse has become routine.

Cons
The hotel is "European Style." Translation: Each room has its own shower and sink, but the communal toilet is down the hall.