Embassy Suites by Hilton NewYorkManhattan Times Sq

The gym was well equipped, though it doubles as a sauna. The breakfast and dining area has just been remodeled, but they kept the old tables and chairs, which gives the place a “we tried, but not too hard” feel. That could be the hotel’s tagline. Breakfast came with funk music blaring, and the coffee was really poor, so don’t count on it to start your day. This didn’t feel up to the brand. The cleaning was poor, and the elevators were slow. The up button on the 12th floor was taped off and didn’t work.

For the price, this was a huge bargain. The breakfast was included, and they also had snacks and drinks from 5:30 to 7 PM, which saved us money. It was me and my son in a room with a king bed, a sofa bed, and two TVs separated by a cushioned divider. They didn’t have two beds available when we booked, so that part was on us. The sofa was so big and comfortable that I slept on it without even opening it. Highly recommend.

The location is good, though don’t expect to be in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle. The rooms themselves were fine, but at over $352 a night I expected four-star standards and this felt like two. For four days there was no soap in the bathrooms. I reported it Thursday through Sunday, and by Monday there was soap in one bathroom. The bathrooms also had no running water and were overflowing with body fluids during breakfast. The fitness center was dirty while I was there, with old, outdated equipment, and the elevators took forever. There’s a $30 nightly charge that goes toward food and drinks at the cafe, which I’d be fine with if the cafe weren’t only open from 5 to 10. Plan on having your cocktail before then. This was the worst experience I’ve had at a New York hotel. I wish I’d booked somewhere else. Skip it.

The staff made us feel welcome, from the front desk to the gentleman who greeted us nearly every time we came in. The breakfast was one of the better hotel breakfasts I’ve had, and I enjoyed the complimentary happy hour as a chance to unwind before going out. It’s an easy walk to Times Square. Construction was underway, but didn’t cause us much trouble. The rooms are on the small side, though comfortable and up to date. I’d definitely recommend it.