Arrival/Check-In: I drove into New York City from Boston, taking the West Side Highway for its scenic views along the Hudson River. I knew the hotel at 11th Avenue and W. 48th Street was within walking distance of Times Square, so I was surprised to find 11th Avenue lined with car dealerships and a relatively quiet stretch of road. Setting aside that first impression, I pulled up, handed my car to the valet and entered the small, open-plan lobby. The décor leaned toward dark brown and red, which felt cozy for winter but a bit heavy in mid-June. My mood brightened when the front desk clerk mentioned the rooftop bar, Press; I had plans to meet a friend that evening and the idea of watching the sunset over the Hudson appealed immediately. The check-in was quick, and I was on my way within minutes.
Guest Quarters: I was assigned the Hudson Suite, a spacious, comfortable room with a river view that included the berth of the USS Intrepid at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The sitting area had a retro ’60s vibe, with a small desk, couch, coffee table, large flat-screen television and a guest chair. The bathroom featured Etro toiletries, an Italian brand I hadn’t used before but found very pleasant. I also appreciated Kimpton’s “Forgot it? We got it!” list of amenities available complimentary or for a small fee. The king-sized bed had side tables, and a mini-chaise with an ottoman tucked into a corner made a great spot to work on my laptop while enjoying the view or watching a second flat-screen TV.
Services/Amenities: Shortly after settling in, I realized I had left my cellphone in the car. I called the front desk and was relieved to learn the vehicle was still at the curb; a staff member brought the phone up to my room promptly. I phoned my friend to meet at the rooftop bar, but later learned the bar was closed that night for a private event. We debated the lobby bar, but with the beautiful evening we chose to find an outdoor spot instead. I still hope to experience the view from Press on a future visit. I would have liked to visit InkSpa as well, but my schedule didn’t allow this time—something to try next visit.
The Experience: Despite my initial concerns about the hotel’s surroundings, I enjoyed my stay at Ink48. The building’s history as a former printing house gives the property character and means the guestrooms aren’t “cookie-cutter.” The staff were friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere felt welcoming. I missed the hotel’s daily cocktail hour, a Kimpton tradition where guests mingle, but I still felt at home. One practical advantage: hailing a cab outside the hotel was effortless, which made getting around the city easy.
Ink48
653 11th Ave. at 48th Street
New York, NY 10036
tel 212 757 0088
ink48.com