Profile

Originally built as residential apartments, this 54-floor property was transformed into the coolly-sophisticated London NYC in 2006. Irish designer David Collins kept the layout of the rooms intact then filled them with mod furnishings like coffee tables that swivel up to dining table heights and did them up in an understated palette of blues, violets, and whites. Even entry-level options are suite-sized, while the two-bedrooms and London Apartments—complete with kitchenettes, lounges and dining areas—seem made for civilized cocktail parties. Not from the highball era, however, are the amenities: All rooms are equipped with flat-screens, iHome players, free WiFi, and high-tech Mitel touch-screen phones. Upper floors enjoy panoramic views, and food is covered by Gordon Ramsey at the London and the less formal Maze. Best of all, the intimate lobby and a limited number of accommodations per floor make the hotel feel more like chic boutique than 561-room high-rise. — Sandra Ramani

You’re in good hands with food from Gordon Ramsey and the concierge services from Quintessentially, a global, members-only lifestyle club. In keeping with the Anglomania, calls to London are free up to 8 hours a day.

Cons
Two hot on-site restaurants mean making advance dinner reservations is a must. The service can be a little hands-off (which should work if you’re a seasoned traveler or an under-the-radar celeb).