Recognising Brooklyn’s draw as a destination, the Ace Hotel has added to its portfolio. With its latest opening that makes a great base to discover this hip New York borough.
Traveller: Caroline Smith
Room: Double (Twin Queen)
Address: 252 Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn, New York
Date: June 2022
Price range: from US $279
Best for: Visitors to New York who want to venture beyond Manhattan to explore the edgy, exciting borough of Brooklyn
Where to find Ace Hotel Brooklyn
In the Boerum Hill neighbourhood on the edge of downtown Brooklyn and a 30-minute subway ride from Manhattan. The most populous borough of New York City, Brooklyn is now one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods for visitors. Home to Coney Island, the Brooklyn Museum, and arguably the best New York-style pizzas in the city.
Within a short walk, you can find
Prospect Park and the scenic Brooklyn Heights Promenade with glorious views across New York Harbour to Lower Manhattan. A leisurely stroll across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge will take about an hour. And is rated one of the best free things to do in New York City.
Claim to fame
Brooklyn was once considered a no-go destination for tourists. However much has evolved. Ace Hotel Brooklyn opened in late 2021 and has only helped continue the area’s progress from dangerous to desirably hip.
The showstopper
The dramatic exterior entry to the hotel, The Stoop, is designed to be a welcoming congregation point for guests and locals alike. Featuring a ceramic centrepiece by modernist sculptor Stan Bitters and a stunning light installation inspired by Tokyo’s Hotel Okura.
The Room
Generous in size, our Double Room (with twin queen beds) had ample space for the quirky designer and vintage furniture. A D’Angelico acoustic guitar, a custom Tivoli radio and original artworks – part of Ace Hotel Brooklyn’s collaboration with the local creative community – dress the walls. It also had rather loud industrial-strength air conditioning unit. Which we luckily didn’t need, due to the large floor-to-ceiling windows which open to overlook the neighbourhood. Sustainable brands and products have been selected to please conscious travellers. Including organic, biodegradable (and very comfortable) latex mattresses and designer bathrobes. A curated Brooklyn-flavoured minibar completes the picture of thoughtful, user-friendly amenities with designer flair.
Amenity game
The Rudy’s brand, simple 1,2,3 shampoo, conditioner and bath gel products were developed by the Ace Hotel creators as a spin-off from Rudy’s Barbershop in Seattle. The range is made specifically for the hotels from vegan ingredients with a signature Palo Santo scent.
Beyond the room
Space, greenery, and natural light are evident in the large lobby that melds seamlessly into a comfortable lounge bar. Plus there are workspaces, an art gallery, garden, and dining area. The warmth of wood, vintage seating and textured fabrics co-exist with metal, glass, and concrete design elements. The 24-hour fitness centre with vintage lockers, trophies, and images of old-style muscle-builders aims to inspire your workout.
Dish to dine for
The Ace Hotel’s restaurant As You Are ambitiously aims to celebrate Brooklyn cuisine culture. It has multiple guises such as bakery, coffee shop, brasserie and anytime diner. That caters to all occasions: breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, snacks, and cocktails.
The menus are creative and locally-based no matter what time you dine. I love my breakfasts. Luckily, the cinnamon bun was satisfyingly gooey (and indulgently giant). And the full breakfast was spectacular with the crispiest hash browns and bacon.
If you survive the delicious morning calorie and carbs overload, venture back for cocktails and dinner. A short ribs burger, octopus-mezcal ragu or confit lamb rib, are a few favourites. And save room for the sides of crispy sunchokes and hand-cut fries with sauerkraut mayo. Wash it all down with a Mo’s Jito made with mezcal, chartreuse, pineapple and fresh mint.
Staying in
Shop at the Ace boutique for Brooklyn-cool souvenirs. Work out in the gym. Or stay in your room and indulge in your creative juices on the D’Angelico acoustic guitar. After the pastries and coffee to start your day, grab a seat at the purpose-built shared workspace. Or hide out in a comfortable nook at the lounge bar while you sample the tasty craft cocktails.
Stepping out
Brooklyn has a wealth of authentic local attractions and surprises for visitors willing to step outside Manhattan-centric, New York City. Here you’ll discover new views, vibrant art, music, architecture, nightlife and shopping. Try a New York Greeter visit with a local to discover Brooklyn’s secrets, treasures and diverse neighbourhoods.
Insiders’ tips
‘Goings On’ page showcases the line-up of local-focused exhibitions, art residencies, pop-up displays and performances hosted at the hotel. Find your choice of entertainment around the dates you plan to stay. And join the Ace’s ‘A-list’ to stay informed in advance of deals and calendar happenings.
Before booking
Creative packages combine a stay with tickets to local events and exhibitions. Or to donate 10% of your booking to eco organisations through Ace’s Planet Earth program.
The family factor
Children up to and including 17 years old stay for free at Ace Hotel Brooklyn if using an existing bed.
I wish I could take home…
Any of the excellent merchandise and bespoke homewares from the Ace shop. But luckily, it’s also available online. It’s just hard choosing what to buy. Between a hoodie, a scarf, or a woven bedcover, all created by local designers exclusively for Ace.
V&T expert rating
8.5 out of 10: Ace Hotel Brooklyn’s spacious rooms, public spaces and restaurant are an excellent option when visiting New York. Especially if desiring more room than the standard Manhattan hotel.
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