The Hotel Elysée gives new meaning to a concept property. With its Anglo-Franco décor, the quaint accommodations feel more like a European countryside inn than a New York City hotel. There are sensations so powerful, so deeply rooted, and so closely associated with childhood memories, that the slightest hint yields an effect that is nearly Pavlovian. Staying at the Hotel Elysée reminded me of the weekend getaways I used to take with my mother as a young girl. We would take the train to Paris, to Zurich, to Madrid, in search of new adventures. Each time, we would stay in a lovely bed and breakfast, almost always ordering room service. I remember those trays of croissants and miniature jars of jam like it was yesterday. Upon arrival, I was immediately transported back to that carefree, innocent time in my life—from the distinct décor, to the hospitable service, and the continental breakfast.

Settling into my comfortable junior suite, the welcoming bottle of champagne and chocolates served as the prefect antidote to the daily stresses of city life. Some hotels can feel cold and sterile, but this environment was warm and comforting. The Hotel Elysée has the charm and character of a suburban manor with found objects, decorative elements, elegant sconces, and overstuffed chaises. This concept truly provides the best of both worlds—the comfort of a B&B is like a home away from home without sacrificing modern-day conveniences and amenities such as wireless access, room service, laundry, and daily passes to the New York Sports Club.

All of the Hotel Elysée’s smoke-free guest rooms (87 rooms, 3 junior suites, 8 suites, and 3 Premiere Suites) feature hair dryers, in-room safes, mini bars, writing desk, iHome MP3 Dock /Alarm Clock Radio, flat panel LCD televisions, and luxurious marble bathrooms. Each boutique guestroom has windows that open and offers individual air temperature controls. Some rooms have unique features such as terraces, kitchenettes or solariums. Special services and amenities include dry cleaning and valet parking; complimentary copies of The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the New York Post and the Financial Times are available to Hotel Elysée guests every morning in the Club Room.

Lodging in New York City has never felt so inviting; the romantic Hotel Elysée is a hidden gem among luxury hotels in midtown. The property is also home to legendary New York City nightspot Monkey Bar. Vanity Fair editor-in-chief Graydon Carter with partners hotelier Jeff Klein and restaurateur Jeremy King co-own the popular eatery. The neighborhood’s surrounding options are endless from the entertaining (art galleries, theatre; jazz, and cabaret performances) to the serene (with religious services at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Central Synagogue, and St. Peter’s Church) practically all on the hotel’s doorstep. Whether travelling for business or pleasure, whether single or with a family, there truly is something to appeal to every type of guest.

Each of the HK Hotels is built around a unique concept. The Hotel Elysée is reminiscent of a countryside manor with its Anglo-Franco décor; toile upholstered settees, overstuffed sitting chairs, and elegant European sconces lend an air of weekend estate. These accommodations feel more like a weekend estate, except for the fact that the property is walking distance to MOMA, Central Park, and New York City’s shopping mecca along Madison and Fifth Avenues. The Library Hotel is so much more than a booklover’s paradise with its Bookmark Lounge, American Bistro, and International Wine Bar. The Casablanca Hotel pays tribute to an unforgettable cinematic experience with its mystically Moroccan design accents. The wartime period references provide a fantastic setting and a wide array of classic and current DVD releases, alike, are available for visiting film buffs. The Giraffe Hotel conjures up images of a swanky 30’s supper club with its lofty ceilings and posh Gramercy Park address. This property is an ideal option for those travelers who would prefer to stay in a proper neighborhood, away from the bedlam and mayhem, yet conveniently situated, nearly equidistant between Soho and midtown.

A special note of thanks to the courteous and attentive staff at Hotel Elysée and HK Hotels, in particular Kimberly Watson and Adele Gutman.