We are planning our first trip to New York in late April and are thinking of staying at Hotel Giraffe (Park Ave and 26th Street).
We will be staying for five nights so would like something better than basic accomodation, but not right in the tourist area. Is this a good location? Is it in a safe neighbourhood with local restaurants that we can walk to at night?

relatives stayed there last year and really liked it - they had a suite, thought the accomodations were terrific, felt they had a good deal (I think around $250 for a suite - one bedroom for 3 or 4 people during a busy weeekend) - loved the location - walking to Flatiron/Murrray Hill restaurants and bars andMidtown attractions, easily accesible to subway and bus . . . I remember they thought the staff was particularly helpful . . . and liked the breakfast/cocktails and lobby atmosphere. Hope this helps . . .

Thanks. Very helpful. Just wanted to make sure that we wouldn't be stuck in an isolated area at night without any nearby restaurants.

There are plenty of restaurants in the 20's and low 30's to the east of Park.

One block over on Lexington you're in "Curry Hill" - a strip of Indian places. Second and Third Ave both have many neighborhood restauants.

If the weather is good, you're also a nice walk away from Union Square - 10-15 minutes or you can easily find a cab.

Have fun!

It's a very cool hotel and a bit away from from the typical tourist track.