Soho House New York

Soho House New York: A Comprehensive Review of a Michelin Key Selected Property

Soho House New York, a prestigious members-only club and hotel nestled in Manhattan's vibrant Meatpacking District, offers a unique blend of exclusive luxury and a "home away from home" aesthetic. As a Michelin Key Selected property, it is recognized for its exceptional hotel experience, remarkable design, and excellent service.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Soho House New York is largely positive, with guests frequently praising its unique atmosphere, stylish design, and desirable location. It's often described as an indulgent splurge, providing a sense of luxury and a welcoming, intimate vibe. However, some recent sentiments suggest a perceived decline in service quality and an air of pretension from certain members, leading to a mixed experience for some visitors.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of Soho House New York:

• Design & Atmosphere: The hotel embodies a "rustic-chic perfection" with distressed wooden floors, exposed brickwork, bare beams, and cozy velvet armchairs, creating an inviting and intimate ambiance. The British influences from its London origins are evident in its interior decor.
• Rooftop Pool & Terrace: The infamous rooftop pool and terrace are often cited as a major draw, with many considering the striking city views and lively atmosphere alone worth the price of admission. It's an unforgettable spot for cocktails, especially with fairy lights overhead and comfortable seating.
• Exclusive Access: Staying at the hotel grants guests access to the private club facilities, including the restaurant, bar, modern art collection, Cowshed Spa, library, and a cozy 44-seat cinema. This access allows guests to mix and mingle with New York's social set.
• Thoughtful Amenities: Guests appreciate the attention to detail, such as cocktail making kits, cookie tins, Cowshed toiletries, and super-comfy beds with Egyptian cotton sheets.

3. Room Quality

Soho House New York features 44 individually designed bedrooms across seven floors, ranging from "Cosy" to "Large." The rooms are described as beautiful, sophisticated, and urban, with velvet chairs and distressed wood floors, walls, and beam ceilings, reflecting a fresh spin on classic downtown Manhattan loft living.

• Comfort: Guests highlight the presence of huge, seven-foot beds and impressive freestanding tubs in larger rooms, encouraging a relaxing soak. Rooms are generally quiet despite the bustling city location.
• Amenities: Standard room amenities include rainforest showers, Cowshed toiletries (making it possible to forget toothpaste), and excellent Wi-Fi. Minibars are well-stocked with gourmet snacks, liquor, wine, and coffee, and all rooms include hair straighteners alongside hairdryers. There is also a dedicated ADA room (room 14) with appropriate facilities.

4. Dining Experience

Soho House New York offers a diverse dining experience across various spaces.

• Restaurant & Bars: Food and drink are served in the comfortable Drawing Room, the velvety booths of the Club Bar, and a bare-brick-walled restaurant featuring wooden floors and chandeliers. The restaurant offers a menu of seasonal American Italian food.
• Breakfast: Breakfast is served on an almost-top-floor with views of New York rooftops, described as a "magical experience." Options include a buffet and à la carte dishes like eggs and avocado, pastries, smoothies, pancakes, and breakfast quesadillas.
• All-day & Late-night: An all-day menu features classics like artisanal cheeses, chicken club sandwiches, linguine, scallops, and filet. Late arrivals can also find comforting sweet and savory light bites. There's also a self-serve candy stand and a cheese and meat counter.
• Critiques: While cuisine has improved in recent years, some feel food still takes a slight backseat to the hip party scene. Some recent guest feedback has noted that the food can be "ok" and service "below average" during dinner.

5. Service & Staff

Guest feedback on hospitality is generally positive, with service often described as friendly and attentive but never overbearing. Check-in is personal, sometimes even handled by the General Manager. Staff are said to be polite and helpful. However, there are instances of complaints regarding staff attitudes, particularly from management, and perceived differential treatment between hotel guests and full-time members. Some employee reviews also suggest issues with management and work-life balance within the company.

6. Location & Accessibility

Soho House New York is strategically located in the trendy Meatpacking District, an exciting neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere.

• Nearby Attractions: Guests are a short walk from High Line Park, Chelsea Market (home to seafood joints like Cull & Pistol), and The Standard, High Line Hotel. Greenwich Village and the Whitney Museum of American Art are also nearby.
• Transport: The hotel is easily accessible, with the 14th Street Station just a block away, providing access to the rest of Manhattan.
• Accessibility: The hotel is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair ramp at the front entrance, an accessible reception, and elevators fitted with alarms and intercoms. Accessible toilets are available on several floors, and dining areas are equipped with height-appropriate seating and tables. The Cowshed Spa and rooftop pool are also accessible via elevators.

7. Value & Pricing

A stay at Soho House New York is considered a luxury, and prices are high, even for a New York City luxury hotel. Many guests feel that the luxury, service, and sense of indulgence make it "totally worth a splurge," especially for special occasions or relaxation. The value is enhanced by the access to private club facilities that typically require a substantial membership fee. Annual membership fees for Soho House can be around $2800, with global access costing over $4000.

8. Common Complaints

While generally well-regarded, Soho House New York does have some recurring criticisms:

• Exclusivity vs. Pretension: While aiming for a creative and relaxed atmosphere, some guests and former members have noted an air of pretension from certain members and a decline in the "special" feeling due to overcrowding.
• Guest Policies: Hotel guests are often limited to one visitor at a time.
• No Photography: A strict "no photos" policy is enforced in common areas.
• Noise: Lower floor rooms can experience some street noise.
• Work Environment Restrictions: Common areas have rules regarding laptop usage (no laptops after 5 pm) and phone calls, making it less ideal as a co-working space for some.
• Inconsistent Service: Some guests have reported issues with inconsistent service, including feeling ignored or experiencing poor management attitudes.
• Cost of Incidentals: Charges for taking home toiletries have been noted.
• Room Views: Some expensive rooms have been reported to lack windows or views.

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