Italians flock to this hotel operated by Jolly Hotels, the largest hotel chain in Italy. In this U.S. flagship you can expect native Italians, or at least Italian-speaking staff at the front desk and the breakfast room. The chain brings a European air to this friendly hotel on a residential Murray Hill corner, combining an Italian aesthetic with an art-deco design. Deluxe rooms on the top floors have a sleek, contemporary design, grand bathrooms with separate soaking tubs, and views of the Empire State Building. The standard rooms are a bit cramped, and the decor, despite the snazzy cherrywood furniture, can be blah—for an Italian hotel, anyway. The cozy Whaler Bar has a fireplace and a wood-beam ceiling. A separate concession on the premises offers shiatsu massage and a Japanese sauna. Pros: Italian influence creates a unique New York hotel experience; good value for location and service; attractive bar. Cons: no restaurant; no gym; not contemporary in feel.
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