Wide open indoor spaces
at the Bowery

Every May, Conde Nast Traveler releases its Hot List, a collection of the best new hotels, spas, restaurants, and nightspots. Check the Daily Traveler every day for a new post from this year's list.

Undeterred by the nearby flophouse and Salvation Army shelter, rock band managers, film directors, and other entertainment industry folk have been flocking to the Bowery Hotel since its opening last spring. And it's no wonder: With the influx of Whole Foods, luxe condo developments, and the flashy New Museum of Contemporary Art, this stretch of the Lower East Side is quickly shedding its infamous grit. Inside the 17-story faux-factory building, the look is stylish Jekyll-and-Hyde, with the dark lobby's faded old-world tapestries and mounted deer antlers standing in stark contrast to the 135 guest rooms' floor-to-ceiling window and knockout views, and to the obliging staff (not a mad scientist in sight). Strategically positioned mirrors mask the smallness of some rooms, and large marble baths with brass fixtures make up for the lack of space. The Lobby Bar can get crowded with trendy young things, but the outdoor lounge is a welcome refuge--as long as you aren't squeamish about the adjacent cemetery. Italian restaurant Gemma has a rustic atmosphere and serves well-made dishes like roasted branzino and traditional pizzas that complement the hotel's cozy disposition.

When to go: Year-round.
Which room to book: The upper-floor one-bedroom suites have the best views and sizable patios.

Address: 335 Bowery, New York City, New York 10003
Tel: 212 505 9100

Further reading:
* Check out the hotel's website
* Hot List 2008
* Watch our Hot List video, New York-style
* Louise Bourgeois is in New York now, too