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Although it doesn't look like much from the outside, the colorful tile mosaic "sign" embedded in the sidewalk in front of East Village Bed & Coffee gives a pretty good indication of the interior atmosphere. Fun and funky, this delightful B&C (breakfast is not available, but various caffeinated beverages abound) boasts seven theme rooms, three common areas, three fully equipped kitchens, and even a little garden where vines creep up the walls and neighborhood cats come to play. The airy French Room and jewel-toned Afghani Room are the best bets in terms of size and sheer loveliness, but don't fret if they're booked—all the bedrooms exhibit owner Anne Edris's eclectic sense of style, as well as air conditioning and CD players. Irons, Internet access, free local phone calls and digital cable are also provided, though bathrooms, as befits a B&C, are shared. Look out for the lighting fixtures made from Absolut and Grand Marnier bottles when asking Anne to borrow one of the three house bicycles. — Amelie Gillette

A cool and cheap place to stay in an even cooler, and community-oriented, part of town. Rooms are air-conditioned during summer.

Cons
Shared bathrooms and a homey vibe won't impress travelers looking for luxury. And this corner of the East Village is nowhere near the subway, so be prepared to walk, cab or bus around town.

Note
Two-night minimum; three nights on weekends.