The Mave Hotel

Opened in 2009, The MAve hotel has a sleek glass-and-steel facade that stands out from the surrounding stone and brick that characterizes this part of town. The hotel reception has a polished, contemporary feel marked by glossy red-and-white decor accented with hanging crystal box chandeliers. Adjoining the lobby area is a small cafe, though there's little in the way of seating or space to linger. Two elevators ferry guest to one of 12 floors, but one of the elevators is tiny and can feel claustrophobic. Alternatively, stairwells combine funky silver-painted banisters and colorful silhouette murals with more pedestrian textured walls and carpets. The boutique vibe is arty and modern, more a place for the solo business traveler or couples who are touring NYC, rather than vacationing families. However it's a bit pricey for the rooms and minimal facilities offered, so it's worth comparing rates at the nearby Hotel Chandler or Broadway Plaza Hotel.

Named after the hotel's location, The MAve is set on a busy corner of Madison Avenue and 27th street. It's just west of Park Avenue and surrounded by large commercial office buildings, a few small shops, and various small eateries. Situated in the Flatiron District, it's essentially in the center of the city, within easy reach (15 to 20 minutes by subway) of the midtown business district (Midtown East), the tourist attractions of Times Square and Midtown West, and the downtown nightlife and shopping in SoHo, Chelsea, and the East Village. The R, W, and the 6 subway lines can be found within a few blocks from the hotel. The iconic Flatiron Building is also just five minutes' stroll away, through the lovely Madison Square Park. It's also under 10 minutes on foot to the Empire State Building. By subway, JFK Airport is about 70 to 80 minutes away, while LaGuardia Airport is 50 to 60 minutes. Both airports are approximately a 20 to 40 minute drive from The MAve, depending on traffic.

The hotel has 72 rooms, all decorated in a modern, understated style with hardwood floors, dark mahogany furnishings, and burgundy headboards. Though a bit plain, white walls are dotted with funky, urban-themed artworks as a nod to the city. Most of the rooms are small, if not tiny, though that's to be expected in New York City. Amenities are adequate, consisting of 32-inch flat-screen TVs (with video-on-demand), iPod clock radios, and bathrobes. In-room Wi-Fi is available for a fee and upgraded rooms add mini-fridges. Beds are comfy with Sealy Monogram mattresses. Small but modern bathrooms have walk-in showers, quality bath products, and hairdryers. Reports suggest lower- and mid-level rooms are prone to traffic noise (the hotel does provide earplugs). Housekeeping is not provided daily and some guests have complained of minor cleanliness issues. All rooms are air-conditioned by sometimes noisy window units. 

There's very little beyond the rooms. A free wine and cheese are served in reception every afternoon. The front desk is staffed 24 hours. Both Wi-Fi and valet parking are available for a daily fee.