The Chatwal, New York City

"A top-to-bottom refit of the Lambs Club, the historic thespian hangout in the heart of Midtown’s Theater District, by designer Thierry Despont has turned this actors’ den into a sleek 76-room hotel with Art Deco lines and ocean liner–inspired fittings that hark back to travel’s bygone eras. (The wonderfully accommodating service throughout—is there anything the house butler can’t do?—is another throwback we love.) A small but richly furnished lobby gives way to the Lambs Club restaurant, an 80-seater from chef Michael White where the focal point would be the original stone fireplace if it weren’t for the storylines unfolding at the other tables. Rooms are fitted with gorgeous steamer trunk–like wardrobes and desk-vanity combos in chocolate leather, while bathrooms come with wall-to-wall mirrors and rain showers stocked with custom Asprey amenities. Guests can find a break at the cozy Lambs Club Bar, hidden away above the lobby, and at the underground spa, with a clever "endless" lap pool and small gym—probably the only place on the property where you can let them see you sweat."