Creatively updated and modernized by hotel guru Ian Schrager and French designer Philippe Starck, the Clift reopened in the summer of 2001 in its historic theatre district location. The so-called lobby living room is your first clue that this hotel defies tradition, with its oversized “chair art” pieces and rich dark woods. The more understated guest rooms are still luxurious, with lavender and ivory color schemes, orange Lucite end tables, 400-thread-count sheets, wheelbarrow chairs, and cordless phones. A well-heeled crowd would feel comfortable in these trendy, hip, and luxe environs. The Clift also houses the restaurant Asia de Cuba, which has branches in several cities, and the see-and-be-seen Redwood Room. The landmark Art Deco bar on the first floor blends old and new (for example, digital portraits are displayed on plasma television screens on walls that retain their original redwood paneling).

Clift Amenities:

• 363 rooms, 17 story. Check-in 3 pm, check-out 1 pm. High-speed Internet access, wireless Internet access. Restaurant, two bars. Fitness room. Business center. Credit cards accepted.