- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
The Hotel on Rivington
Category: Event Planning & Services Hotels Hotels & Travel Hotels Hotels [Edit]
107 Rivington St(between Ludlow St & Essex St)
New York, NY 10002
Neighborhood: Lower East Side
(212) 475-2600
- Nearest Transit:
-
Delancey St (F)
Essex St (J, M, Z)
2 Av (F)
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
126 reviews for The Hotel on Rivington
Review Highlights
"...photos from the floor to ceiling windows, overlooking the..."
(in 10 reviews)
"Lower east side is a trendy, fun neighborhood."
(in 11 reviews)
"And the Tempur-pedic bed was AMAZING."
(in 9 reviews)
Loading...
126 reviews in English
-
Review from Jason S.
Santa Monica, CA
2/6/2012
Hands down my favorite hotel in Manhattan. Its small and a true "boutique" hotel in every right. Decor is perfect, not overly flashy, and sexy. I cant say enough of the showers here, incredible water pressure, glorious views from inside the shower, and a window you can crack to get fresh, cool breezes while showering...its an amazing feeling in the morning.
I love how the room service comes from the gourmet restraunt on the fist floor, and they dont overcharge, whatever the price is on the menu, is what you pay, plus a 20% tip - this is rare in this day and age to have NOT overpriced room service.
the ONLY negative i can find in this hotel would have to be its Wifi, which is incredibly slow.
I will be staying here every time i visit the city. -
Review from martina r.
New York, NY
12/10/2011
This review is for a corporate event at their bar on the roof and the second floor.
In case you were planning on one, this hotel is NOT the place for a large event. There was a line around the corner that barely moved for 30 minutes on which everyone was on the list. Once inside, there was a coat check set up in a tiny hallway that ran out of space in the first hour. The security guards wouldn't let us on the roof, which I was told had TONS of space because it was over capacity, so we were directed up stair to an overflow room. The bar had one white and one red wine and nearly no liqueur selection. The music was not well-chosen and too loud for what was, in fact, a hotel lounge crammed with frustrated people. We were never given any direction for how to enter the party and were never offered any of the food that was only being served to the select guests that probably snuck upstairs.
On my way out, they were being less-than polite to the hotel guests trying to take the elevator as, I guess they didn't want them sneaking into our party, which we couldn't get to either.
Moral of the story - they can't handle events. -
Review from Keith M.
Minneapolis, MN
12/4/2011
Great looking hotel in a really good area. Just a few blocks from the subway and little shops...
Our first night we stayed in room 34 on the 3rd floor. The music from the club on the first floor was so loud you could not sleep. We turned on the tv and even that would not hide the noise. We complained the next day and they "upgraded" us to a smaller room with no steam bath. If you stay here, don't stay below the 9th floor! Never once did they say sorry!
On the plus side I loved the decor and the free wifi. -
Review from J. SOMA S.
San Francisco, CA
11/20/2011
I've stayed here twice. Both times I booked a high l floor room with soaking tub. Both times at the time of check, I was told "this was not guaranteed" and so I was downgraded (albeit nicely from the staff) to either a low floor room with tub (low floor rooms SUCK at this hotel!) or a high floor room with no tub (the better option). Regardless, I liked the staff and enjoyed the experience.
HOWEVER, tonight and fresh off a flight from the West Coast, I'm checking in for an entire week (for Thanksgiving) and GUESS WHAT, they're pulling the same bait and switch. I'M FURIOUS. Hotel on Rivington IS NOT AN HONORABLE establishment.
By week's end I will have spent more than $5,000 at this hotel over three visits -- and GUESS WHAT, I'LL NEVER STAY AT Hotel on Rivington AGAIN. EVER.
ZERO STARS if given the option. -
Review from R B.
Denver, CO
2/8/2012
Bait and switch. When we reserved our room, we confirmed twice in the call that we would have a view of Manhattan. When we checked in, no rooms with a city view were 'available', but we were told that they could move us the next day. The following day we were told to pack up, housekeeping would move our bags and to stop by at the front desk for a new key when returning. After waiting in line for 20 minutes at the front desk, and another 15 minutes of the clerk trying to figure out what was going on, we were still in the same room. We were told to do this every day for three days. What a hassle, we were never moved. The whole experience put a real damper on our visit to NYC, we will never stay at the Riv. The service and amenities otherwise were mediocre at best.
STAY ELSEWHERE -
Review from Stephen K.
Brooklyn, NY
1/2/2012
I would love to review this place from having experienced what it has to offer as a hotel and venue but it seems the Rivington is far to busy / cool to bother with mere mortals such as I. Despite calling in to see the space in person and repeatedly emailing simply asking for a quote to use their space, I never received an answer. If you have an event don't expect to be treated as a valued customer here - it seems common courtesy is completely lacking at the Rivington.
-
Review from Sean S.
8/11/2011
A friend of mine recently hosted a party in a hotel room here. The pictures below don't do it justice. The place has absolutely stunning views. It being the tallest building in the neighborhood, Manhattanites and visitors can get all narcissistic on our favorite sitting, gazing out upon it's wonderfulness.
Seriously though the really hot part about it was the bathroom. It's all off to one corner, and completely surrounded by glass, you will surely feel pampered taking a long bubble bath here, with the city all around you. These are the kind of details that make a place like this stand out. Most architects would have made the usual bathroom interior to the apartment, and left the windows to the bedroom. So that in itself makes it worth the price. -
Review from Veronica W.
Irvine, CA
9/26/2011
Love this hotel! It is in a great location. The rooms are modern and actually quite large for an NYC hotel.
I can't wait to stay here again! -
Review from Laura H.
7/17/2011
Great hotel to stay at, highly recommend it. Helpful and friendly service, clean rooms, tempurpedic beds (yes!) and super quiet rooms. I was also impressed by the size of the room and bathroom. Free wi-fi as well.
For turn down service, you get various kinds of treats like lemon cookies, rice crispy treats. We also ordered room service and enjoyed a lovely $20 truffle vodka martini. It was delicious, and almost worth the $$.
The lower east side is a bit grungy, but super central and easily accessible to public transportation. There are tons of restaurants and bars around, and a great night scene in the neighborhood (therefore no need to cab around town at night).
The rooms are a bit minimal, and I wished there was more counter space and mirrors in the room. Beside that, loved it and would totally stay here again. -
Review from Jeannie G.
Rhinebeck, NY
11/19/2011
I'm sad to say we can only give this hotel one star. We frequent NYC and like to try new hotels. Hotel on Rivington was a great disappointment . It began with the doorman whom was too busy chatting to do his job. The unprofessionalism continued to the front desk. They had no record of our second room. (we were traveling with our teenage son) we booked him a lower floor room. For us we booked an upper floor room with a soaking tub. We ended up with a room on floor 5 without a tub looking out to the back neighboring apartment buildings. This did not ruin the weekend but I would not give this hotel even a second chance.
-
Review from Gamal H.
6/23/2011
I recently went to a promotional party at Rivington. Like many new hotels going up downtown they have a rooftop lounge to attract locals who aren't staying in the hotel. Like many new hotels in the area, the door can be tough even on a slow night. In the time that I spent there, I didn't experience anything to set the Rivington apart from spots like The Jimmy, Hudson Terrace, Above Allen, or Gansevoort Park Avenue.
Having said that, the sound for the party cut several times during the event and the AC wasn't really turned on even though it was 80 degrees outside. Those little failures might have been a one off problem, but they didn't make me more comfortable. It made me want to get out of there much sooner than I wanted to...
Have fun.
G -
Review from Yan F.
7/5/2011
This place rocks!!! The room I got had clear windows everywhere and a lovely bathroom. Lovely idea to choose this place for a photoshoot! The entire room was carpeted and very clean. I was very pleased that the bed was surrounded by clear windows on all sides so when you pull the shades open, there is sunlight everywhere.
I was here around Easter so the room service dropped by to give me three little velvet cupcakes with a card saying "Thank you." The cupcakes was yummy and totally made my day in conjunction with the lovely room.
If you like room service, they will provide you plenty of it without asking. The room service seems to be really uptight about--- room service. :-) They will be knocking on your door every half an hour asking you if you need anything so if you don't want to be disturbed, make sure you place the sign they give you outside the door that says "Do not disturb." Even then, they still knocked at my door but they only disturbed me just to give me cupcakes so I guess that doesn't count. :-)
The room is electronically locked so you will need a keycard to enter. Unfortunately, you don't slide the keycard through to open the door. You have to touch the keycard to the door and sometimes it doesn't work. I had to try it a few times before I got it.
This place is a bit pricey. It's around $300 a night but if you can get a room here, you won't regret it. That is if you can get one with a skyline and windows everywhere. That's just kind of my tastes. ;-) -
Review from Ali L.
Astoria, NY
9/30/2011
Stayed here for a night. It's very nice. Modern, clean, beautiful views and the bar is a happening spot.
-
Review from Eddie M.
New York, NY
12/20/2010
Behold a cautionary tale for those of you looking to plan your next private party at the Hotel on Rivington. I implore you to seriously reconsider your decision in favor of a venue that is more courteous and suitable for an intimate gathering of close friends.
I recently attended a private party in the 2nd floor lounge area with approximately 50 friends. The space was specifically reserved for our group which at first seemed like the perfect venue. As the evening unfolded, we all left ungratified and shocked at how we were treated by the staff and egregious bouncers.
On its surface, The Hotel on Rivington paints a chic picture of coolness. However, deep beneath lurks a chronic attitude of disrespect and pomposity.
1) Not all of the invited guests were allowed to enter the building. You see... the main entrance also serves as the gateway into the pretentious lounge downstairs requiring all guests to line up and wait. The bouncers managing the door are very selective and will refuse entry for any number of reasons including the type of clothes you're wearing (and in some instances the color of your skin). Some guests who came waited 1/2 hour in line only to find out they would not be allowed inside. No explanation was given other than a hint that they didn't look like they belonged inside. It was a private party for Christ's sake. They were forced to leave and go elsewhere.
2) A girl in our group was kicked out of the building because she was using her cell phone. Yes you heard me correctly. She was on her cell phone sitting on a couch in our private room for the private party. Our room bouncer (with the earpiece) came over to her to tell her not to use her phone inside the building. When she questioned the policy, the bouncer copped an attitude and told her to gather her things to be escorted outside. She left with 5 of her friends never to return.
3) A guy in our group was kicked out of the building because he complained to the room bouncer (same one as above). As the bouncer was walking through the room, he shoved someone aside for being in the way. The guy complained, and you guessed it, the bouncer copped another attitude and grabbed him by the arm and escorted him outside. He left with 7 of his friends never to return.
I seriously can't make this stuff up. Everyone needs to be warned of the risk that they face when booking private parties at this place. Not all of your invited guests will be allowed inside, and a few might make untimely early exits for doing something as innocent as talking on a cell phone.
Don't take this chance. The last thing you want is to throw a crappy party where everyone leaves disgruntled. -
Review from Mx A.
San Francisco, CA
4/14/2011
5 star for the hotel: The staff was polite and the rooms were clean, spacious, and well-decorated. The baked treats each night was a nice touch.
1 star for the misleading town car service: When we were leaving, the doorman asked if we wanted to take a town car to the airport. I asked what was the difference between taking a town car and a taxi and he said that it was a $55 flat rate for the town car whereas a taxi is upwards of $45. He said that the town car was trustworthy, reliable, and recommended by the hotel, and that the $55 is a flat rate. On the other hand, the taxi may charge for tolls, or charge more if there is traffic or if they have to take city streets. We opted for the town car because I just wanted to deal with the flat rate.
When we arrived at the airport, the driver charged us an additional fee on top of the flat rate because he had to pay some toll. I insisted that we were told the $55 was a flat rate which, by its very definition means $55 FLAT, no more and no less. Anyway, the additional fee was only a $7 more, but it was quite irritating to feel like we were misled by the doorman -- no one likes that feeling, no matter how small the price. -
Review from Angellica Y.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2011
My favorites about Hotel on Rivington are the bathrooms, the beds, and Thor's huge chandeliers (Thor is the restaurant/lounge downstairs). I stayed here this past weekend, 1/7/2011-1/9/2011, and I had a wonderful time. The decor is so pretty. On the second floor, you will see the front desk, unique library, a bar where you can grab some coffee in the morning, and a pool table sitting under a gorgeous, modern glass chandelier. The penthouse is for special events only, while Thor is poppin' at night with beautiful people.
I am in LOVE with their Japanese-style shower that transforms into our very own steam room. With a push of a button (120 degrees max), my shower turns into a steam room. The water does not get hot because after sitting in the steam room or doing squats (LOL), your body temperature will rise and the cool water will feel fabulous on your skin. Amazing! I want one of these when I buy a house plus an aquarium for bathroom walls. What?? I like to dream, ok? :) The bathroom has black mosaic tiling on the floor and walls, circle mirrors, and Japanese-style sink. Lighting is adjustable throughout the rooms and bathroom.
The door attendants, Francisco, and another man who I did not catch his name, were so nice. Francisco gave me some pointers on where to go for museums and his own inputs on certain places. I like people who enjoy a nice conversation and eager to assist.
My room was very glossy-minimalist, which is somewhat passé, but the metro views and the snow watching was totally worth it. It was like living in a human-sized snow globe. Oh, and do not forget the memory foam king bed - superb! I also love the location of this hotel - close to bars, restaurants, etc. Lower east side is a trendy, fun neighborhood.
The only downside is when I first checked into my room and realized my sheets were dirty. However, housecleaning came to my room within 10 minutes, which was nice, but still...it is a high-end boutique hotel and there should not be requests like this after checking-in the first day. Other than that, I had an incredible expereince. I love boutique and luxury hotels. Next destination? -
Review from banana l.
Chicago, IL
10/14/2010
Most disappointing hotel experience ever. Every day we were there, 4 days, we had an issue.
Upon booking we were assured that if you stayed on floors 5 or above you would not hear even the tiniest bit of music from Thor, the club on the first floor. The reservations girl said she would put a note for our room to be on the 8th floor or above. We checked in and got placed on the 7th floor, again assured we would not hear any noise at all. Thursday night was fine as there was no DJ. Friday night my mom woke up 3 times between 12am and 3am and went to the desk to complain. The girl said we shouldn't be hearing any noise way up there but she'd tell the DJ to turn the music down. The third time my mom went down the girl said he keeps turning it back up. Well, duh. Saturday night I could actually make out the songs he was playing. Again, the girl looked shocked that we could hear the music. But it must have been a different DJ because we only had to complain that one time.
Also upon checking in the front desk guy did not inform us of the fact that the hotel holds $100 per night on your credit card for incidentals. That means we woke up to a very unexpected $300 charge on the gift card we gave them. 1. The card shouldn't have been accepted in the first place. 2. It only had $350 on it. 3. He should have told us how much money he was taking from us. Not happy.
Saturday we returned to our room. It was an ice box. The housekeeping person turned the thermostat to 60. Ice box. And then didn't refill anything in the bathroom. No shampoo. No conditioner. Nothing.
The hallways are super dark. You can hardly see anything except for your feet because the lighting for the hallway is at calf-height. The bathroom is all black with just one little light about the sink and one light in the shower. Not at all good for putting on make up...or washing your face...or to see anything. Because everything is black. Sink, floor, toilet, shower, hairdryer.
Customer service doesn't exist here either. Take your $500+ per night and go stay at the Trump for the same price.Listed in: Welcome to the Big Apple!
-
Review from anh v.
4/22/2011
maybe because it was daytime, i came here for a drink in (gasp!) daylight. this is why people wear their shades indoors.
the interior looks crappy. sure, factor in a few cocktails and dim lighting and i will buy into the hipster feel of studded leather. otherwise, it was like looking at a drag queen gently putting on her pantyhose on the street early morning. i have witnessed this, i kid you not.
otherwise, nice service, interesting cocktails, very quiet during the day and lots of seating. just bring your shades if you swing by early. -
Review from Stephanie G.
Ithaca, NY
8/2/2011
Hotel on Rivington offers spacious rooms with a sleek, hip, modern retro decor. Each room has a wall of windows which offers great views of the City, and makes the hotel itself shine from the outside. The beds are the coziest that I've ever encountered in a hotel. The space was clean and obviously well kept. The staff is especially helpful and friendly. Highly recommended.
-
Review from Claire F.
11/25/2010
My first experience was staying here a few years ago (2006?), perhaps before it became super B&T sceney, but it's in a fun neighbourhood and has a cool vibe/design. I threw a party here, so had a corner suite on (I think) the 14th floor. I have some amazing photos from the floor to ceiling windows, overlooking the LES.
The memory foam bed was amazing, the window-walled shower was really cool and not at all creepy, as I was worried it might be. There was also an ample seating area nicely separated from the bedroom area.
I spent the better part of Saturday night entertaining guests in the lounge on the first floor "lobby" area that has its own small bar and those floor to ceiling windows. It was a way better crowd than the more sceney restaurant crowd downstairs.
On another occasion, I came with a bunch of girlfriends and had a few drinks in the ground floor bar area. It was strangely stark and had a very weird crowd. The best way to describe it was like we were waiting backstage for something to happen. Perhaps because of the all black decor...
On yet another occasion, a gentleman caller took me back to the secret swanky back room bar. A nice idea, but it was too crammed with overdressed undernourished types and the music was too loud to be enjoyable.Listed in: Trashy Hotel Room Party, LES // the lower east side
-
Review from Jason C.
San Francisco, CA
5/18/2011
This hotel was a major disappointment. We got it as a "deal" on Jetsetter hoping to stay somewhere nice, young and fun. The entire hotel is so dark you can't see anything. From the weird lighting in the hallways and elevators to the extremely dim lighting in the business center, I felt like i was straining to see everything. While everyone I dealt with at the hotel was very nice and helpful, the room accommodations went like this:
- The bathroom smelled a little moldy
- There is no tea or coffee in the mini bar, though advertised. Instead, there are a plethora of sex toys and games to choose from ... I opted for them to bring me a tea bag ($9 for a tea bag mind you) and let the sex toys be.
- The hotel sits in an area that is a prime Friday/Saturday night party scene and i heard it until 4:30 in the morning loud and clear. In case that wasn't enough, my ceiling started leaking water and i woke up on a rainy day to the constant dripping sound hitting wet carpet, stepping in it when I tried to get out of bed.
- There was no iron or ironing board in the hotel room either, I had to call up for one.
The location is great, fun shopping, a lot to do but if you're looking for a hotel that's actually worth it's price for the bedroom, I'd look elsewhere. Only part worth it was the giant egg shaped free standing tub in my room that was the highlight of the hotel. -
Review from Real B.
7/10/2011
sticks out like a sore thumb in the LES but the views from floor 8 and higher is wonderful I gotta say.
however....
being the cheapass that I am I booked a "special" rate that got me as high as the 4th floor, so no view, with the only bonus being that the lower floors, the rooms are actually larger. I gotta say I was a little taken aback how giant my "standard", low floor room was.
Hotel staff were pleasant and pros. The much lauded bed however, I hate to say, actually was one of the least comfortable hotel mattresses I have EVER slept on. EVER! Well who comes to the LES to sleep anyways?
to make up for that, the bathroom had a "japanese style" steam bath/shower combo that can easily fit 4 hot + steamy people (sexxxy times ;) ) and wifi and breakfast is free.
Also the biggest bonus would be that you can walk to one of Manhattan's hottest hoods at the moment, but hurry b4 the chains invade (actually its started so get moving)
a solid 4 star that I had to bump down to 3 cause that bed was just THAT bad... -
Review from Jeremy S.
Overall I had a good experience. First off the Lower East Side is a great neighborhood. It's similar to the Mission (if you're from San Francisco), but feels less dangerous at night. Cool restaurants, shopping, and nightlife is all nearby.
The hotel entrance is whimsical, you enter through a white cavern at ground level where you'll find the hotel restaurant and bar (Thor). The desk staff was very responsive (I had to get an important fax out late night and the front desk guy helped me get it done).
The room I stayed in (rate: $495 before tax) felt far more spacious than my past NYC experiences. I really liked how the window shade could be drawn or closed with the touch of a button.
Maintenance of the hotel seems to be the one area of weakness. I had a suspicious stain my carpet (which they promptly cleaned) and my shower window had a crack. Neither problem really got in the way of my experience, so I'll let both slide.
So the ultimate question, would I stay here again? Sure. -
Review from Joi B.
11/12/2008
A native New Yorker, I had never stayed in a New York City hotel before. I had seen a few rooms in various hotels, all of which were insanely expensive and unimpressive in size and decor. I've always figured that if I were to splurge, I'd do so in a venerable establishment, such as the Plaza or Pierre, and a total splurge that would have to be because I've heard that even the "cheap" rooms are 500 plus and the size of a closet.
I am so glad I decided to change my mind and go with one of the newer, boutique hotels like Hotel On Rivington. It's like the young rock star of hotels, astonishingly both sleek yet homey, sophisticated yet inviting...the door men are not overbearing, nor snobby, but friendly and approachable, as are the desk staff.
My one complaint. Like I said, this was a balls-out SPLURGE, my boyfriend was in town, and we wanted this one crazy, indulgent night. Possibly not a big deal to the rest of the world, but when you live in a NYC apartment, chances are your bathtub either sucks or doesn't exist, so we wanted a room with one of those amazing Japanese soaking tubs. I had reserved this room two months ago, yet when I checked in, I was informed that there were no rooms left with the soaking tubs. "This is due to one of the hotel guests damaging it last night." Now, I don't know if she was doing this on purpose, but immediate images of, say, Pete Doherty and Amy Winehouse sharing an 8 ball and a bottle of champagne, while soaking in a tub of blood or ghee came to mind. How does one damage a tub enough to render it useless, I dare ask?
I wanted my fucking tub!! This was crushing, but ended up saving us a few hundred bucks, so I tried to think of it that way.
We ventured up to the 16th floor where the elevators spit us out into a black hallway with divine red stencils--no hotel has ever come close to approaching my aesthetic ideal-. We opened the door to a room with a stunning view of Manhattan behind a wall of curtains. THIS Is why you stay here. For the "holy fucks," and the "I can't believe I am actually SEEING THIS," kind of thoughts and utterances.
Certainly not for the mini bar. I know why they charge 7 bucks for a Hershey Bar, it's because they are betting that once you get past THOR bar's absurd red rope hoopla, you wouldn't want to venture back out across the street to the bodega to get the same crappy chocolate for a buck...yes, it's THAT bad on a Saturday night. Actually, part of the fun is looking at what this mini bar has to offer--overpriced treats from Babeland, also across the street, splits (and fulls, alas, no magnums) of Veuve, various sized bottles of premium spirits, nuts and other goodies.
So, about that bar downstairs. THOR. The Hell On Rivington. Go for your half priced cocktails during happy hour that is for hotel guests--it's totally worth it! Leave immediately thereafter when the douchebags flock to this night spot, now magically transformed into a lounge full of bling and bullshit, not to mention HORRIBLE "dance" music. What a bastion of bad taste-- I observed no less than 20 Eurotrashmen clamoring to be let in past The Velvet Ropes. I didn't even know this shit went on in New York City anymore!
Actually, the jaded New Yorker that I am (maybe I'm just old?) would say avoid walking around this horrible, destroyed area altogether on weekends. I suppose I could start waxing poetic, lamenting the loss of the gritty LES where the bars were far and few between, but TEN TIMES MORE INTERESTING and full of people you'd actually want to talk to, etc. etc. but if you've made it this far into my review, you probably know this already. Or, if you don't, and you're a tourist, I wouldn't blame you if you wanted to explore the debatable "coolest" neighborhood.
But my boy and I, we had met up with some friends, also from out of town, tried going into a bar or two and reconsidered the fact that we'd be much better off buying street food, a six pack and a bottle of wine and then hightailed it back up to our DEEE LUXXXX hotel room in the SKYYYYYYYY to enjoy the view with nary a douchebag desperate for some kind of "scene," in sight.Listed in: Hotels in the US, SPLURGE NYC, NYC Bars with Cocktails, Killer Views NY
-
Review from Nish N.
4/27/2007
I had been to THOR before for drinks, so I was excited to finally see how the other half lives when I got to stay there last week on my visit to Manhattan last week. From the get-go, service was really friendly and attentive, from the doormen to our sassy bartender.
Location, location, location, I mean come on, that's enough to warrant at least three stars.
My room was large, with an amazing view (and patio!), and my kingsize bed was heaven. Free wireless throughout, so perfect as my makeshift office of sorts. I'm a big wake-up call person, and I think here is where they could improve: one morning I didn't get a call (but my cell phone alarm was set!) and one morning the call came in a few minutes later, while I was in the shower.
Overall though, I'd recommend staying here, it's a relative luxury but I'm happy to have it.Listed in: Nish Visits New York City
-
Review from Ki G.
Updated - 3/1/2009
Got to spend some time in the actual hotel room two weeks ago thanks to my friends visiting. They are pretty nice and the view from the floor to ceiling windows is something I could get used to.
However, that won't be happening any time soon, so instead I lounged on the tempur beds and admired the ample closet space and the sleek design. It was one hot hotel room.
.
.
.
.
Just last night, the DP and I found ourselves settling comfortably in the hotel lounge (not to be confused with Thor). I brought him here once before in the early days of dating and he suggested we come here again. I was happy to, because I needed to pee and as I mentioned in my previous review - the bathrooms are GAW-GEE-USH!
We got to lounge, drink our beers and ridiculously flirt with one another without being bothered by too much people or loud music or uncomfortable silences.
Thank you, Hotel Rivington, for making some of my evenings just that much nicer.Listed in: This is why I love my city., This is where I find myself…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
11/26/2007
Love this place. Always have a good time. Was introduced to the second floor lounge while in college… Read more »
-
-
Review from karen c.
Boston, MA
3/1/2009
I really, really, really, really, REALLY wanted to have our wedding reception here.
That didn't work out, but I have spent quite a bit of QT with The Hotel on Rivington for business-lots of conferences in their board room, drinks at the bar, dinners, etc.
The hotel is absolutely gorgeous. On the modern side and definitely meant for younger, hip travelers who like to PARTAY!
I would say that it's "on the pricey side" but um....welcome to New York. -
Review from Lazaro C.
Miami, FL
8/9/2008
Very hip modern hotel. The first floor is a bar/restaurant that turns into some sort of busy lounge/club at night. Because of this the lobby is actually on the second floor, which has a lounge for hotel guests with a pool table.
The staff is very attentive. Someone came to my room at check-in to explain all the amenities of the room, including where the switch was to open the automatic curtains (lol).
Rooms in New York are usually small but I'm a big fan of how well the space was used. There was even a balcony.
Tempur-pedic beds meant my sleep was perfect.
My favorite part of the room is the bathroom. The shower and tub are separate. The tub is nearly waist deep, it feels like a mini pool. One of the shower walls is actually all glass, so you pretty much shower with a view towards the city (and vice versa I'm sure). Also, the showers back wall is foggy glass so I wouldn't recommend showering while guests are in the room. Both these things don't bother me (i think it's cool actually) but I can see some people disagreeing with it.
My new favorite hotel in New York.
Posting pictures soon. -
Review from Aimee O.
Manhattan, NY
5/28/2009
"ummm, marinara sauce typically doesn't come with calamari," said our coked-up waitress who looked like a broke down nicole richie. RIIGGGHHT. honestly, i'm never this mean about people, but she sucked. she was disinterested in our orders, rolled her eyes at every question and generally was unpleasant all around.
i like the space and have had good experiences at THOR (hence, the two stars vs. one), but it's so full of itself. honestly, stop it - you were a scene like TWO YEARS ago. the gig is up.
seriously, if you're looking for a nicer place to grab a drink in the LES, you're better off going to stanton social ... hell, you'd be better off at welcome to the johnson's. it maybe dingy and a bit smelly, but at least you'll get good service. -
Review from Julie E.
Los Angeles, CA
10/10/2007
Ah...my first trip to NY in almost three years since I moved from there. I couldn't wait for the long weekend. I was psyched when I found out my dad decided to stay at the Rivington - I remember when it was being built. I had heard great things - the vibe of a boutique-y W hotel combined with the service of a more intimate, less corporate hotel. I...was...psyched.
Unfortunately, our stay did not live up to my expectations. In fact, I had never stayed in a room with more problems, especially considering the $400+ cost per night.
First, the good news: the staff is extremely personable and responsive. They were not the cause of any of the problems, and they did their best to fix them promptly. That said, here are my issues...
The rooms are very small. My brother and I stayed in a double and there was barely room to walk between the closets and the beds. Yes, they did a nice job of making the rooms feel stylish considering the small space - dark wood closets (lots of closet space, surprisingly), and very comfortable beds. Bathrooms with black tiles make it feel sophisticated.
But...there was this problem with the A/C in our room. It was either really hot or really cold, couldn't make it fall in that nice, comfortable in between. Plus, the A/C was causing some sort of leak behind the closets, so it sounded like someone was knocking repeatedly on the back of the wall. The front desk sent someone up from engineering right away. After about half an hour, we thought it was gone...only to come back again in the middle of the night. I mean, I know buildings have their problems, but this building isn't that old, and the problem really affected the quality of life in the room.
Tiles from the bathroom floor were coming up. At one point the drain stopped working. Not fun.
My dad ended up checking into the Bowery Hotel (AMAZING) because they gave him the wrong room (despite booking a corner suite months ago) and his gf fell in the bathroom because the floor was covered with some thin layer of oil. Gross.
All in all, it's a cool hotel, but for the cost, would much rather stay at the Bowery, and just hang out at the bar/restaurant downstairs. -
Review from Michael S. H.
New York, NY
2/15/2008
Impeccably gorgeous hotel in the midst of the Lower East Side. It was here that the Mr.Black crew held their Saint Valentines Day dinner event. It was definitely a wonderfully put together gathering on the 2nd floor dining hall. Gorgeous floor. The most delightful chandelier and hall way. The seating area was not too small yet not too big and spacious enough to fill all of the guests attending.
The rest of the building is quite nice. The elevator is totally sexy, but the only problem I have with this, is the fact that they have only one elevator. They should do something about that. -
Review from Lianne Z.
San Francisco, CA
8/11/2008
From it's gorgeous decor to the wonderful drinks, this place is great.
It's trendy (sometimes trying a little too hard) but is always fun.
It has intimate seating as well as various bars and plenty of move-around space. Great place and great for a big group of people. Especially when you don't meet the typical NYC guy:girl ratio. -
Review from Susan s.
7/6/2010
I've been spoiled by the Rivington on my birthday. I practiced hedonism this weekend by staying five days. It was the most incredible experience ever. I booked on my Tablet hotels membership weeks ago for an amazing deal. I went with a friend to see what the rooms looked like. I asked the front desk manager if I could request a specific view, and she said there were no guarantees on their rooms, especially during holidays. I hoped and wished that I would have a great room when I checked in.
So the best thing happened! I got a room on the 16th floor, just below the penthouse levels. It was a NW facing view, so I could see the fireworks!!!!! The room had a huge balcony that stretched across to the bathroom. A super comfortable king size tempurpedic mattress, and a shower with exterior facing glass, so the whole world could see you!
The only negatives was that the drain was super clogged the first two days, and I didn't get a chance to tell the maid till much later than I thought about it. The weekends becomes really hectic trying to enter the hotel, there are ropes that intimidate you, and a crowded line as if I stood in line to get into a VIP club. Otherwise, my whole experience, I would love to relive it again soon! -
Review from Jean W.
San Francisco, CA
11/7/2005 1 photo
I was going give it just 3 stars, but it gets 4 for feeling so airy, cavernous, and comfortable in such tight quarters as Manhattan. A truly boutique hotel, when there are so many just trying to pass off. The lobby feels Swedish, the restaurant feels Middle age influenced, and the staff ready to sess your importance level, but doesn't really care to bother. It has a window encased conference area on the second floor that just feels ready for some power plays if anyone needs to look into it for both business and pleasure stay.
+++++++ Updating after April06 +++++++++++++
It's almost a shame to stay in such a great hotel in such a great city. It was a sanctuary to me. I had one of the rooms with the Japanese tub that goes to your neck, a view of the city from my shower, a bed you feel aerodynamic in because it's so slick, and my favorite part, the gift that keeps on giving, the shampoo, conditioner, and lotion, aren't just incredible for a hotel. They are just flat out the best. Probably available for purchase.
The hotel lobby isn't on the main floor, and that's nice because then there's a whole separate lounge for those staying at the hotel. Also there is a secret club, off to the side. Book early for the Tribecca Film Festival and be prepared to see the more cosmopolitan side of Hollywood. -
Review from Ro N.
New York, NY
7/14/2008
I don't think I have to tell anyone that this hotel is amazing!
The architecture and the design of this place screams Modern and Simplicity at it's best!
I love the fact that this hotel offers REN products to their guests, since I am a fan of REN.
Their rooftop is a great place to throw parties at, since the view is breathtaking and not to mention a wooden jacuzzi?
Who can top that? -
Review from Brad P.
Redwood City, CA
5/2/2007
My colleagues were excited to stay here, so, hey, what the heck. My room was surprisingly spacious for a Manhattan hotel room, as the bed took up less that 50% of the floorspace.
The room was modern and stylized, but not trying too hard. The bed was one of those memory foam mattresses, which was pretty cool, if a bit hot for sleeping. My only gripe was that the black-out shades were jammed and wouldn't close, but then again, I wasn't in NY to sleep-in anyway.
Free wi-fi is a plus. This should be standard in all hotels. That's what I say. Yeah. -
Review from Kat C.
Mountain View, CA
8/31/2006
I don't agree with the folks below.
Hotel on Rivington rocked. For some, it's hard to find since the hotel is sandwiched between some run down, scrubby looking buildings. But as soon as you step through the glass doors, held open by some of the friendliest doormen i have encountered, you forget the ugliness outside.
The rooms are comfortable and roomy, considering how small space can be in NYC. We had doubles, and we had more than enough room for our luggage, work gear, shopping finds and some guests to hang out. I slept nicely in the memory foam type beds, and they provide nightly turndown service, leaving you a cute candy on your pillow. I didnt really hang out down in the lobby bar, as there are way too many places to be whilst in nyc, but it served it's purpose: providing refreshment on your way in/out of the hotel.
Another plus to THoR is it's proximity to a plethora of eateries, boutiques & bars. You can cross many of your daily needs off your list if you stay here i.e. recovery bloody mary, shoes 7 purses, teashops, cupcakes, stanton social, dolce vita, etc.
i left my heart at the hotel on rivington.Listed in: Fei Mao's Watering Holes
-
Review from Crystal L.
Brooklyn, NY
12/28/2010
Some words to the wise when choosing an establishment at which to spend a special occasion. The Hotel on Rivington is notorious for mistreating and cheating their customers out of money and an experience. Please also beware of ML Marketing Group and http://newyearseve.com/
When I had decided upon last new years plans to ring in 2010, I wish someone had forewarned me. I had purchased the New Year's Eve VIP package (open bar and penthouse access for $175 pp) last year with 9 of my friends. My group had arrived at 10pm to discover that the entrance had a line of 40-50 people, which according to the other party goers had not moved in the hour they were standing there. I assumed that I would not have to wait long, having paid a premium for the 2nd highest tier of NYE packages. Two of the couples in my group broke away and cut the line. Only three of the four people were allowed in. The bouncers were completely arbitrary in their decision to let three in, breaking up a bf/gf couple for New Years.
I had reached the entrance a quarter to midnight. At this point everyone was pressed up against one another in the lobby of the hotel where two hostesses were collecting ticket stubs and issuing open-bar bracelets. In my inability to reach their podium, my bf took my ticket stub and fanned both stubs out for the hostesses to see. They took BOTH and issued him only ONE bracelet to which he protested that he handed them two stubs. They looked at the two of us and shouted"No, you only handed me one... and stop yelling or I will have YOU thrown out!" He retaliated in frustration and said "FINE, throw me out" and for what?! Because they were too absent-minded and incompetent to count ticket stubs? They immediately took him up on the offer and ordered bouncers to throw him out, stating that he was being hostile and violent. He had NOT laid a finger on anyone. He had not hit anything- not even a stationary object. We were escorted outside.
At the entrance of the club, I calmly told the bouncer what had happened- that my bf was not being aggressive or violent. -that the hostesses were power tripping. All I wanted to know was why we the event was so poorly organized that even VIP ticket holders could not enter the establishment for almost 2 hours. He said that the elevators could not carry the capacity of incoming party-goers. That doesn't make sense considering the volume of tickets sold to the event. The venue should have an expected volume.
Needless to say, I spent my new years feeling angry and cheated. I had not been allowed into the club because of the hostesses false claims. I decided to confront the event organizers, the ML creative Group (also a Mark Levine company). Michelle Jiminez was my contact. I emailed her, stating that the venue was way overbooked and I was not allowed in. I should receive a full refund because the services promised were not rendered. She deferred blame to http://NYE.com and Hotel on Rivington. I contacted The Hotel on Rivington and they deferred blame to ML Creative Group (of which Michelle is an employee).
It is now one year later. I have submitted complaint with the Better Business Bureau- a case that is still unresolved. Only three of my friends were allowed into that New Years Party despite having arrived over 2 hours prior to midnight. I will let you decide if you want to continue to patronize this establishment after the inconsistent service and disrespect they have paid past customers. -
Review from stephanie i.
San Francisco, CA
5/15/2007
I'd stay at Hotel on Rivington again especially if I was going to NYC on leisure and not business (since most of my business meetings happen in midtown).
Why?
The service I received at this hotel was definitely better than any of the others I have stayed at (W, Hudson, Royalton, Night). Here's an example: It's 2:30 am I am still cranking on some work stuff and I call down to the front desk to see if their kitchen is still open for room service. (lame I know... I was delusional) But wait. Instead of blowing me off like the hungry West Coast fool that I was for calling with that insane request... the friendly voice on the other end of the phone tells me that Inoteca and another joint close by are open til 3am and that they'd be happy to place an order for me and run out to pick it up. Room service at 3am? I love this place.
Other perks:
- Clean, spacious and well appointed rooms. (hotel is appx two years old)
- Tempurpedic beds - I've been wanting to test one out!
- THOR restaurant/bar downstairs - with adorable bartender who didn't bat an eyelash when I asked for a non-alcoholic concoction. Not to mention she mixed up a mean virgin mojito for me.
- hi speed wireless throughout the hotel
- in the heart of the EV and cool little shops
- close to Soho - can you say "shopping"?
Cons:
- flat screen TV was a little small... but who really watches TV when they are in NY anyhow.
For $315 a night that we paid -
Review from Tina B.
3/26/2008
This is a kick ass hotel. The views are outstanding!!! And the see-through shower is pretty slick. Great location. Be beds are very comfy. The rooms are a pretty good size. Plenty of places to throw your shit. Great lounge areas too.
For any Beastie Boys fans: this occupies the same block as the Paul's Boutique cover!
