Profile

Since its much-hyped opening in 2000, the Tribeca Grand has been a Mecca-below-Canal for rock stars, actors and other big-name glitterati, as well as business travelers looking for a little edge. Past the reception desk, the lobby opens into a cavernous triangular atrium that houses the Church Lounge, a restaurant and bar where internationally known DJs regularly spin. The playful décor and earthy color scheme lend an uncomplicated elegance to the place—think shades of creamy beige, pea soup, mocha and mustard yellow alongside large tropical plants, hanging canvas lanterns and gnarled driftwood branches. On the lower level, the richly upholstered, 100-seat Grand Screen theater regularly hosts private movie screenings. Guest rooms, though on the small side, include all the basic amenities plus extras like Bose Wave Radios, phones and televisions in the bathrooms, quirky mini-bar items, and a live goldfish in every room (upon request). Many rooms look out on the Lounge, which isn’t always the quietest of spots; luckily, most guests don’t mind the raucous atmosphere. To really party like a rock star, reserve the Grand Suite, a slightly cramped one-bedroom apartment with an entrance to the hotel’s private rooftop terrace. — Andrew Wang

Attentive staff, prime in-house dining and drinking establishments and eye-pleasing décor make this a destination even if you’re not a guest.

Cons
Despite all the luxury extras, the rooms are cramped; considering how much they cost, there should be a bit more space, even in the penthouse suite.

Claim To Fame
Michael Moore gave a special advanced screening of Fahrenheit 9/11 at the Grand Screen for families of Sept. 11 victims. In the film Two Weeks Notice, the hotel was home to Hugh Grant’s character.