RIFF Downtown

We stayed one night. It’s a practical, reasonably priced place for two, though the room really is only set up for two people: one bed and no cots. They’re fine with you bringing an air mattress, so you could sleep up to four that way. The rooms were clean, but the hotel smelled strongly of bleach. The floors are bare cement, very uneven, which I found kind of funny, though clean is what matters to me. We had a kitchenette, table, and small private balcony. To cook, you have to ask reception for pots and pans. There are lots of places to eat close by, and the number 1 subway is about a block away. The area felt nice and safe, and the entrance is a little odd but no big deal. In winter, they apparently set the heat to 62F. If you turn it up because that’s chilly for a hotel room, it eventually returns to 62F. I guess it resets every few hours, so check it again if you get cold. Some outlets didn’t work, or were tied to one of the room’s hundred switches. A few switches seemed useless, though they might control outlets. You can borrow an 80s game console from the desk, but I couldn’t find the inputs it needed on our TV, so it never worked. The TV itself was very nice, large, wall-mounted, and could swivel to face the table. The front desk staff were all friendly and helpful, with no complaints there. For two people, it’s a decent stay at a good price.

We had a really nice time here and would return on our next trip to the big apple. The hotel was clean and updated, and the rate felt fair. Lots of things are within walking distance. There’s a market across the street and a Whole foods a couple of blocks away, and the simple but capable kitchen made that especially convenient. Free wifi and a walk-out terrace were great extras. The walls are thin, as other reviewers have mentioned, so it helps to have considerate neighbors. We didn’t have that on the first night, but staff were willing to move us when we asked. Thanks to the team for running a great place, keep it up!

The bed was comfortable, but that was about the only thing I liked. The place smelled of bleach and damp, and the walls are so thin they leave earplugs in every room. Most rooms share a balcony, so noise carries around there too. Housekeeping doesn't come daily unless you pay an extra $10 per day, and reception isn't staffed around the clock. I wouldn't recommend it or stay again.

The terrace was a lot of fun, and the retro feel made the hotel feel different. It's in a handy spot, the beds are comfortable, and having a kitchenette was really useful. Just know the rooms are small, towels are scarce, and music from the terrace goes late. It won't suit everyone. I'd come back, but I'd bring an extra towel.