After a redesign by hotelier Ian Schrager and French designer Philippe Starck, the Clift reopened in the summer of 2001 in its historic Theatre District location. Its guest rooms manage to be both understated and luxurious. The hotel also houses two restaurants: Asia de Cuba, which has branches in several cities, and the see- and-be-seen Redwood Room. The landmark Art Deco bar is unusually forward looking—for example, digital portraits are displayed on plasma television screens on walls that retain their original redwood paneling.

Clift Amenities:

• 363 rooms. Wireless Internet access. Restaurant, two bars. Fitness room. Business center.