Profile

The Kitano Group took over the former Rockefeller-owned hotel in 1973, replacing its ornate décor with something more Zen. Though another makeover in 1995 and another in 2007 toned down the Japanese feel—introducing the present muted walls and carpeting—the austere Kitano continues to cater primarily to Japanese business travelers. Known to some as the quietest hotel in Midtown, even the rooms with excellent Park Avenue views are silent, thanks to some seriously soundproof windows. The hotel took over an adjoining townhouse for its duplex suites, which have a more residential feel. The two-story lobby, with its tiger-eye marble floor and oak-paneled walls, houses a fine gift shop and an excellent Japanese restaurant. While it’s immaculate and luxurious, there are several hotels in the area with a similar lavish atmosphere at a more reasonable price…but those ones don’t have sashimi on the room service menu, now do they? — Lisa Selin Davis

Extremely clean and quiet luxury boutique hotel in prime midtown location.

Cons
Twice as expensive as comparable hotels in the area.