Lower East Side (LES). A low-key, yet hip, neighborhood filled with basketball courts, concrete playgrounds, and casual diners serving some of the best hamburgers (Epstein’s) and sausage links (Links). No one here appears to desire the glamorous life, but why shouldn’t the community have its own state of luxury while preserving its industrial and modern way of living. With that being said, Thompson LES nails it when it comes to making sure guests experience the community’s way of living, while making them feel well accommodated.
The address is 190 Allen Street, near the intersections of Allen Street and Houston (pronounced, “How-ston” if you’re from the city - lol). Its hidden entry is easy to pass if you’re not careful, but the inside speaks volume when it comes to exclusivity and flair. From the moment you enter the evolving doors, guests are greeted by bellmen who are more interested in assisting you with your luggage and developing a personal relationship. Their persona is less 5th Avenue and more how can I meet your acquaintance. From there, I had a good feeling that my experience was going to be sophisticated yet authentic.
From the moment I reserved my stay, staff members were nothing but helpful and attentive. They made sure that all my requests were met, and that it was executed with a pleasant attitude! They remembered me personally from our phone conversations and anticipated my arrival. That’s what I call being in-tune with your guests and making things personable. And being that personalities in NYC can be a bit abrasive at times, it was refreshing to experience a more pleasant side.
With my key card in hand and check-in complete, the bellman had the elevator opened, my room floor selected, and I was ready for a memorable experience! As I reached the 12th floor, the hallway was dimly lit with florescent lights focusing on each suite number. I was a bit hesitant about getting off the elevator. But taking the hotel’s exclusive and trend-setting brand into consideration, the vibe complimented Thompson Hotels' sense of style and finesse. Within seconds, I approached my Studio King Suite. Note: Suites share an entry way with an adjacent room. From the moment I opened my door, I fell IN LOVE! I felt like I entered my own NYC Studio Apartment.
The décor and layout is far from a typical hotel room. The front entry was spacious with trendy studio lighting. Note: Guests have full control of the light intensity levels. As I put down my suitcase in the front foyer, I made my way down the narrow hallway that lead to the main suite. The room staging was executed phenomenally!
The décor is simple but chic. The color scheme of black and metallic emulates the industrial feel of the LES. The metal drapes separate the living space from the bed, providing the perfect
amount of intimate space.
The exposed lighting and concrete ceilings make you feel like you’re on a work site, just with posh accommodations! And as for the view, the following pics speak wonders for themselves!
The suite’s refrigerator was stocked with quality juices and fine liquors. And I can’t forget about the snack drawer filled with scrumptious Dean & Deluca snacks.
The bathroom amenities and fixtures are of the highest quality, and there was ample space considering standard NYC hotel bathroom metrics.
And might I add that Thompson LES receives kudos for its logo imprint on the toilet tissue. Wonderful touch!
My next move was to check out the common grounds. Similar to the suites industrial feel, the lobby offered the same impression with paired black leather seats in the main foyer and hanging blown glass fixtures that lead guests up to the second floor lounge.
As I made my way up the stairs to the second floor, I couldn’t help but feel like I’m about to discover a hidden hideaway. The hotel’s design makes you wonder what’s behind every door! The lounge is laid out with black leather seating, marble floors, and glass tables. It served as a perfect meeting place before hitting the town.
Around the corner from the lounge is the Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya Restaurant. The Japanese restaurant offers both family and small plate dining, as well as bar seating that allows one to witness the culinary arts of preparing sushi. Such a facinating art!
The restaurant offers additional seating and an alternate bar outside of the main dining room for more casual dining. During the warmer months, there is a terrace that overlooks LES and serves as an excellent space for private events.
On the transcend to the seventh floor, I observe the rooftop terrace. The rooftop offers ample lounge seating, a full bar, and a pool. Now tell me that doesn’t entice you to want to stay even more!
And lastly, on the bottom floor, there is a full spa and gym facility. It's location offers a sense of privacy and intrigue.
From its level of customer service, comfortable accommodations, and stunning design/decor, my overall experience at Thompson LES was simply remarkable! It’s both a brand and property that deserves high accolades, and they can depend on me doing just that in offering it to my exclusive clientele!
P.S. - Thank you, Thompson LES, from the bottom of my heart for my card, VOSS water, and box of chocolates. It was a wonderful surprise that added the perfect touch to my stay…XOXO!
Give me a call to reserve your luxurious stay at Thompson LES and receive exclusive rates all while feeling the ease of downtown Manhattan!
