01 April, 2016
Given that the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg is home to one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city, it's easy to forget that non-New Yorkers actually sleep here too. Apart from the regular slew of hipsters coming in and out for rosé on the roof, the hotel itself typically brings in an attractive mix of Europeans and music execs looking to stay somewhere a little less mainstream than midtown Manhattan.
Without a doubt, the waterfront industrial building is a millennial's dream. Timber ceilings, oversized windows and cast-iron columns (yes, it's like a stylish startup) reflect the former factory's early 20th century architecture; while the top three stories, constructed of glass and aluminium, add a flash of modernity to the building's aesthetic.
At 70 rooms, the Wythe is the Goldilocks of hotels. Small enough to retain a boutique sensibility, but just big enough that the common areas are always buzzing at the right times. The same applies to its location; sitting in the heart of Williamsburg the Wythe has a fantastic, but not overwhelming, selection of nearby coffee shops, open-air food markets, thrift stores and bars. The L train into Manhattan also happens to be just a short walk away - though you might not even be tempted to leave your slice of Brooklyn heaven.
The décor may be industrial chic, with exposed red brick walls, reclaimed furniture and vintage mirrors; but don't expect anything short of luxurious. The concrete floors are heated, there is iPhone-controlled surround-sound and guests can enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of the New York City skyline. Rooms range from modest bunkbeds to corner lofts with standalone pedestal tubs and private roof terraces. Rooms from £210 per night.
Reynard, on the ground floor, is a popular neighbourhood restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. No surprise, since it's helmed by one the borough's favourite restaurateurs, Andrew Tarlow (make sure to visit his other Williamsburg spots, Marlow & Sons and Diner). Breakfast runs from 7AM to 11AM on weekdays and you can get brunch on the weekends from 10AM to 4PM. The American-focused menu includes classics such as poached eggs, pancakes and frittatas.
Reynard tends to be more happening in the evening, when the ambience is a little more lively with neighbourhood locals meeting for drinks and dinner post-work. Diners can start with staples such as charcuterie, oysters and cheese boards, and move on to heartier dishes like cornish game hen, pork chops and sweet potatoes with brown butter. In the summer, the open-air-tiled courtyard makes for a romantic dinner setting.
There sure is. The 6th floor bar, known as The Ides, offers stunning views of Brooklyn and Manhattan and attracts a fun crowd all summer long. We can tell you from experience that it's the perfect place for chilled bottles of wine and small plates as the sun sets (although the party can start as early as 12PM on weekends).
Eco-friendly bath products, complimentary wifi, in-room surround sound, flat screen LED TVs, full-service minibars with locally sourced products and free access to the Brooklyn Athletic Club.
The hotel also has a 60-seat screening room with a bar and often hosts screenings and events. Check with the concierge to see if anything is scheduled during your stay.
Brunch spots such as Cafe Colette and Five Leaves, essential Brooklyn shops including Catbird and Beacon's Closet, ultra-hipster coffee shops - Blue Bottle and Toby's Estate are a must, happening bars like Hotel Delmano and Berry Park and superclubs Verboten and Ouput to take you into the early hours of the morning.
