The Nolitan Hotel: Stylish Nolita Stay in New York City for Urban Explorers
Arriving in New York City after a summer in Berlin, jetlag had me half-awake, watching the black sky turn pink at sunrise over the Chinese produce market across from The Nolitan Hotel.
Beside me, my partner Dani slept soundly on our plush cloud-like bed amid soft white pillows—exactly the rest we craved after a 29-hour journey. Yet there I was, restless. As dawn broke, I grabbed the red Nolitan yoga mat and energized myself with an hour of sunrise yoga, ready for our first full day back in NYC.
The Nolitan is a boutique hotel that's effortlessly cool, blending raw concrete ceilings with warm wooden floors. Its sleek, dark facade commands attention on the corner of Kenmare Street in Nolita—'North of Little Italy.' Just a five-minute walk to two subway stations, Kenmare also feeds into the Williamsburg Bridge, linking to Brooklyn's trendiest spots.
Nolita offers authentic lower Manhattan neighborhood vibes without the tourist crowds of Midtown or Times Square.
The Rooms
Rooms feature minimalist design with an open layout, including a glass shower adjacent to the bed. The vanity (sink, towels, mirror) is open-concept, while the toilet enjoys private quarters with a European-style wall flush. High-quality Nolitan-branded toiletries await, along with plush bathrobes and slippers. The minibar in the closet fridge offers drinks, yoga mat, robes, ironing board, and iron. A nightstand shelf holds chocolates, nuts, a 'lover’s box,' and glasses.
Our sixth-floor balcony room overlooked Kenmare Street. Sunrise brought the urban symphony: slamming delivery trucks by 8 a.m., honking cars, and revving motorcycles. For early risers exploring NYC, this lively backdrop was perfect.
Amenities
Thoughtful touches abound, though sparse. No in-room coffeemaker or lobby morning coffee was noted, but a folder brimmed with restaurant menus despite the on-site Cantine Parisienne. Breakfast is included there, though not highlighted upfront.
We adored the daily two-hour champagne and canapé reception in the lobby—a cozy spot for afternoon respite with cheese, fruit, and bubbly on leather nooks amid sunken floors and tall bookcases evoking a classic library.
Free guest bicycles (quirky hipster-style) let us zip across Manhattan, skipping subways and feeling like locals—even if in first gear. Skateboards were available too (our front-hotel attempt was comical). Citi Bike passes are backups if bikes are taken.
Highlight: The Rooftop
The rooftop is the crown jewel, offering panoramic city views to the Chrysler and Empire State Buildings. At noon, we marveled at the skyline, reluctant to leave for our flight as dusk approached.
Room for Improvement: Communication
Many perks—like rooftop access, included breakfast, 24-Hour Fitness passes, and iPad rentals—weren't well-communicated, causing us to miss out initially.
Room for Improvement: Wi-Fi
Digital nomads beware: Wi-Fi was weak on our sixth floor. Pack a signal extender for heavy use or streaming; other floors may vary.
Overall Experience
With stunning views, prime location, youthful energy, and perks for yogis to cyclists, The Nolitan delivers quintessential NYC charm.
The Nolitan: Key Details
Location: 30 Kenmare Street, New York, NY 10012
Price: Specials from $269/night for doubles
LGBT Friendly: Yes
Digital Nomad Friendly: Yes, if near strong Wi-Fi
Amenities: Evening wine/cheese reception, rooftop terrace, complimentary breakfast at Cantine Parisienne, yoga mats, 24-Hour Fitness passes, iPod docks, newspapers, on-site restaurant, Wi-Fi, free bikes/skateboards, laptop/iPad rentals, 1pm checkout
Website: www.nolitanhotel.com
Book discounted rates at The Nolitan on Booking.com.
