Get a feel for what makes the East Village famous at these playful digs that hook into neighbourhood history. Music is a big feature, with each floor telling the story of an era: a wall of smashed-glass art refers to punk, old tapes decorating Alphabet Bar nod to 80s rock bands.
Rooms are compact but studded with neat touches like a green lavastone sink and clever fold-out bench space. Stock up on vinyl from nearby Stranded Records then borrow a record player from the concierge and rock out as you wind down. Hit Cathédrale and watch the ballet as chefs and service staff dance around each other in the open kitchen.
From about US$185 a night.
Moxy East Village
moxyeastvillage.com