Arrival/Check-In: Renovations on the building meant scaffolding covered the façade of Hotel Chandler, so the entrance can be easy to miss. After walking the block twice I finally spotted the modest sign for 12 E. 31st St. and climbed four or five steps into a surprisingly welcoming lobby. Arriving on an early Sunday evening in January, I immediately appreciated the warm décor and attentive front desk staff, which created a comfortable first impression.
Guest Quarters: My executive suite combined a bedroom and living area in an open-plan layout separated by a translucent panel that allowed natural light to circulate. The king-sized bed featured Frette linens and individual wall-mounted reading lamps for convenience. A large flat-screen television sat on a bureau, and the closet provided adequate space for a short stay. The bathroom was compact but practical—a reasonable trade-off given the building’s historic 1905 architecture. The living area was cozy and well furnished with a queen-sized sofa bed, two armchairs, a coffee table, a second large flat-screen television, and a generous desk with accessible electrical outlets. While there was no in-room coffeemaker, the hotel offers complimentary coffee and tea in the lobby, which proved more than satisfactory.
Services and Amenities: Service during my stay was consistently high quality. Although no bellman or doorman was present at my arrival, a doorman was available each morning and throughout the day thereafter to hail cabs and greet returning guests. The lobby coffee was excellent and eliminated any need for an in-room coffee setup. Hotel Chandler also provides a well-equipped fitness center for guests who want to maintain their routines, and a quiet lobby library that serves as an inviting alternative workspace. At the time of my visit the hotel was preparing to open an upscale restaurant, Juni, which was scheduled to debut in August.
The Experience: Over two nights, Hotel Chandler proved to be a friendly, well-managed property with thoughtful details and strong service. The combination of a comfortable suite, convenient work-friendly features, and attentive staff made the stay pleasant. I would return and would recommend this hotel to both leisure and business travelers seeking a comfortable midtown Manhattan option.
GT CHECKLIST
- Doorman/valet available
- Quick check-in (under 10 minutes)
- Separate tub and shower
- Large vanity
- High-quality towels
- Powerful, unattached hair dryer
- Premium bed linens
- Large flat-screen television
- Large desk with convenient outlets
- Complimentary in-room WiFi
- Complimentary bottled water
- Stocked minibar
- Ample lighting
- In-room coffeemaker
- Iron and ironing board
- On-site restaurant and bar (opening in August)
- 24-hour room service
- State-of-the-art fitness center
Hotel Chandler
12 E. 31st St.
New York, NY 10016
tel 212 889 6363
hotelchandler.com