Originally an apartment building, this hotel is more than 100 years old, but the interior is pure 21st century, making this boutique one of the best spots for anyone seeking a stylish urban crash pad central to Union Square shopping. Public areas are inviting, with architectural art and lounge music in the lobby, a relaxed bar, and a sitting area with high-backed mid-century leather chairs and a fireplace, although they seem to be more quick stopovers than places people actually linger. Still, rooms feel posh, and the updated bathrooms allow you to enjoy tons of storage space as well as new bathtubs. Suites include a sitting area with a pullout sofa bed and a desk. Alas, you won’t find all the big-hotel amenities here, such as room service or a fitness center, but right next door there’s Puccini & Pinetti, a lively, family-friendly, just-okay restaurant and bar that serves Italian food (with a great happy-hour deal from 3–6pm) in a spacious, comfortable setting. As with all hotels in this area, guests should exercise caution at night, as the area can get a little dicey.