The Sofia Hotel

This was my second stay at the Hotel Sofia on Broadway. The location is excellent. I had easy access to the bus or trolley; but, primarily I walked everywhere. The weather was gorgeous and brisk. Since my last visit housekeeping has improved significantly. It is very thorough and done promptly during the day. The rooms are quite small (if there are more than one to a room I recommend an upgrade to a suite). The rooms have minifridge and coffee makers. While the rooms are well designed to utilize the available space, the baths and closets are very small. The internet access in the rooms is around $12. per day, but there are three computers in the lobby the use of which is free. Free wireless is also available in the lobby. The gym is small but well equipped for its size (free weights, two treadmills, two ellipticals, two stability balls,a couple of resistance machines and medicine balls). There are plenty of towels and a pitcher of water with orange slices. I suggested (and management agreed to provide) an emergency telephone, cleaning wipes or spray for equipment and fresh water. The lobby is arranged in attractive conversational groupings and the fireplaces are very nice. The bar is first rate, but the restaurant, Currant, was not the success it had been when I visited in January. I may have just hit them on an off day, but service and food were both of low quality. I understand there has been a change of ownership.
The best quality of the Sofia is the courteous and professional reception staff. They really do go the extra mile to make the guests at home. Ron and Brian are reception but they function as concierges as well, and they do an excellent job.
I did not take the free walking tour this visit having done it in January. I highly recommend it. Although the area is interesting, you will miss quite a bit without a guide!