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SOHO, MANHATTAN

The Mercer

SoHo's original loft hotel, opened in 1997 in a Romanesque Revival landmark at Mercer and Prince.

The Mercer's red-brick Romanesque Revival corner at Mercer and Prince Streets
ajay_suresh · CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

When The Mercer opened in 1997 in a converted loft at the corner of Mercer and Prince Streets, it helped define what a downtown boutique hotel could be. The landmark Romanesque Revival building still delivers the fantasy of SoHo living that the MICHELIN Guide describes: high ceilings, arched windows and 73 rooms and suites that feel like private lofts. Time Out has long noted the furniture by Christian Liaigre and bathrooms that are generous by New York standards. The mood is discreet, and the front desk keeps watch 24 hours a day.

Sartiano's at The Mercer, guided by Scott Sartiano with culinary direction from Alfred Portale, works as a cafe off the lobby by day and an Italian dining room downstairs by night. The hotel suits travelers who would rather wander than plan: the galleries, boutiques and cafes of SoHo begin at the door, and Nolita and the West Village are an easy walk. It is best for couples and solo travelers who value privacy, generous light and a lobby that never shouts.

Editor’s tip

Start the day at Sartiano's cafe off the lobby before SoHo's shops open, and save the downstairs dining room for dinner.

Dinner within a short walk

While you’re staying here