Saturday, March 7, 2015

Checking Out of My Apartment and Into a Hotel

Living in New York City, I rarely have the opportunity to spend a night in a hotel.  The concept of a “stay-cation” seemed somewhat pointless to me, but since my daughter and I have the same birthday, I decided to give her our loft to host a party for her friends and I would spend the night at The Standard High Line.  What an amazing surprise.

The entrance, just below the High Line (probably the loveliest place to walk in Manhattan) frames a bright yellow revolving door, which enters into a romantic dark lobby with beautiful young people enthusiastically welcoming guests. The rooms on the far end have the most spectacular views, (with floor to ceiling windows facing north, south and west) which are so breathtaking, you don’t want to leave your room. But that would be a mistake.

Just downstairs is the fabulous Standard Grill, upstairs on the top floor and the roof are the most exciting bars in the area.  (I tried the Tabasco/grapefruit margarita…yum!) The ambience at the Standard Grill is vibrant and exciting. People from around the world (and New Yorkers) fill the bars and the restaurants (there is also an outdoor casual space) until late in the evening with good reason, the food is excellent and the space is dynamic. We had raw clams & oysters, caviar and oyster shooters to start followed by steak tartare and Copper River salmon.  The bittersweet chocolate mousse for dessert was divine…with colorful spatulas to serve yourself!

If you insist on staying in your room, the food on the room service menu is prepared by The Standard Grill. You can watch the ships, kayaks and the occasional swimmer pass by while drinking champagne and being comfortable in the luxurious robes. Or raid the mini bar…

The Standard High Line is located on the far west side of Manhattan in what used to be the meat market. Less than two blocks away is the fantastic Chelsea Market where you can buy a huge array of foods to take away or eat right there. Swarms of people were eating giant lobsters at the many tables scattered around the market. You can buy fresh fruits or signature Italian sandwiches, sushi, breads and all sorts of pastries and gelatos. The Brooklyn Flea has even opened a store there with vintage clothing and accessories.

Across the street is the very formal, Del Posto, absolutely one of the finest Italian restaurants in the city.  The food is served quite elegantly and their pastas are sublime! My favorite dish there is their truffle pasta which is made with flat noodles stuffed with an Italian cheese similar to Camembert.  

The neighborhood is a perfect weekend destination and The Standard High Line is the perfect place to stay!

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