My husband and I decided to forget about exchanging presents this year and stay in Manhattan for one evening with a nice dinner instead. I'm thinking of the upper east side or upper west side. Would like the hotel and restaurant in the same area. Don't want to spent more than $350 per nite for the hotel... dinner is open. I'm thinking the Franklin hotel and Carriage House Restaurant. Any other suggestions... thanks all

The Regent or Peninsula, maybe?

Check hotels specifically that offer Xmas packages, I would not eliminate the Pierre, the Plaza, love the Peninsula for location, not sure where I would recommend for the "feast", what about Tavern on the Green which should be decorated to the max or even the Boathouse in Central Park? If you get lucky and have a snowy evening it could be very romantic.

If you can get a good rate to match your budget, stay at The Mark.

You can get a room at the Waldorf Astoria for $206 on Xmas, just checked their website. They also have Xmas meal packages, romance packages, etc.

The Pierre has a holiday rate of $365 or slightly less and this is the moderate room but you would probably get a free upgrade on Xmas, doubt they are that busy.

What a confusing post. Sashie was asking about the upper west side or upper east side. When did they move all these midtown hotels most of you are recommending?

xxx ([email protected]): At the same time you started recommending hotels (i.e. The Mark) that are in San Francisco!

Now, Let's get back to the original question!

Sorry, abc, but I was referring to "The Mark", a hotel on Madison and East 77th Street in Manhattan, which does happen to be smack in the middle of the upper east side. Both the hotel and restaurant (called Mark's) are wonderful. I think that was the topic. Now what do you offer?

Sashie, I have enjoyed attending several holiday dinners at the Carriage House over the years. Very pleasant space, excellent food, and attentive wait-staff.

Plaza Athenee has had some great specials.
This is one of the city's best hotels, great location.
Check their offers at luxurylink.com from time to time.