Fodor's Expert Review SoHo Metropolitan Hotel

The SoHo Met knows how to pamper, with Frette linens, walk-in closets, heated bathroom floors, and bedside-controlled drapes. Glamour begins in the cosmopolitan lobby, where a stunning blown-glass installation by artist Dale Chihuly draws eyes upward. Other outstanding amenities in the hotel include an advanced fitness center, a lap pool, and Les Clefs d'Or concierge services. Don't tell anyone, but Madonna has stayed in the decadent penthouse suite.

Pets stay for free and there's complimentary car service in a Lincoln Continental.

room

If you aren't impressed by the Frette linens--and why wouldn't you be--then marvel at the bedside-controlled lights and motorized drapes. The floor-to-ceiling windows actually open and there are 80-square feet dressing rooms with custom millwork closets in each guestroom. Nightly turndown service includes a bottle of water. Don't expect high style, but it's classy and modern enough.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Lower floors battle street noise, including noise directly below from the Wahlburgers concession. Ask for a room above the third floor to ensure peace and quiet. Wi-Fi isn't free-- it's covered in the $11.30 daily facilities fee tacked onto your bill.

bathroom

Jackpot--the floors are heated. If you don't think this merits mention, then you've never been to Canada between October and April.

lobby

With high (recessed) ceilings and marble floors, guests sweep into the spacious lobby, where they immediately look up at the stunning blown-glass installation by artist Dale Chihuly. Next, guests often enjoy the lemon water stand and stare at an imposing black and white photo of Steve Jobs. The Soho Met has Les Clefs d'Or Concierge service, so ask anything you like.

pool

Swimmers, you won't have to scold someone's kids in this serious lap pool. It's for training, not splashing. There are massive palm trees, floor tiles, a glass brick wall and a hot tub.

gym

Look up--there's a glass roof over the treadmills in this bright, big, state-of-the-art fitness facility. With views of the terrace, the gym boasts long weight racks, plants, big windows, a monitored reception area and big chalk boards for inspirational tips.

dining

Book a night at the chef's table, in the kitchen. It's worth the education in cooking and hospitality.

drinking

Sure, stay and drink at the lobby restaurant, Luckee. They make decent classic cocktails--nothing fancy. Expect the traditional bottles of popular libations.