Hotel Urban

"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?Super-tall chairs, a glass-lined bar, and Papua New Guinean statues all grace the lobby of Hotel Urban, and you can't help but notice them as you stroll from Puerta del Sol to the Prado. If those alone don’t catch your attention, the bellman with top hats certainly will. Inside, an atrium ceiling illuminates the public areas’ metal-and-steel beams, giving the space a futuristic, industrial look. What's the backstory?The Urban is in the Derby Hotels Collection, which has other properties around Spain. If you’re wondering about the plethora of Asian statues and artifacts, they all come from the owner’s personal collection from his travels. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?Guest rooms have stark lines, minimalist decor mingle, art from the Far East, teak wood and leather furniture, and polished hardwood floors. The glass-walled bathrooms in some rooms may be a bit too hedonistic for some travelers; luckily, there are privacy shades in those rooms and others with more bathroom privacy. All rooms have comped minibars that come with a bottle of wine. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?The wifi is free and fast. Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?CEBO, led by Michelin-starred chef Aurelio Morales, serves dishes like Andalusian squid and glazed beef with eggplant and bone marrow. At Glass Mar, led by another Michelin-starred chef Angel Leon (dubbed the “chef of the sea”) a light and airy restaurant facing the street, a seafood menu pairs well with colorful Spanish Sherry-based cocktails. There's also a lively rooftop bar and a new wine cellar where Sommelier Jacinto Domenech offers wine and Sherry Wine tastings. And the service?Formal but friendly. Just don’t traipse in wearing a T-shirt and flip flops and expect immediate attention. What type of travelers will you find here?Briefcase-toting business travelers swap glances with tourists from around the world. What about the neighborhood?This is a major thoroughfare that connects Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor with Paseo del Prado. The hotel is always packed with tourists, but nearby government buildings also assure plenty of local foot traffic. During our visit, the royal family was standing just outside the entrance to welcome the newest entrants to Spain’s congress. The walk to Gran Vía and the Royal Palace is easily navigable from here, too. Is there anything you'd change?We'd love to see more public areas that don't require guests to shell out for a drink or pricey meal. Any other hotel features worth noting?In the basement, the owners' private collection of artifacts and jewelry from Papua New Guinea and the Far East are on display. Bottom line: Why should we stay here?This is an edgy address in a great location." - Ramsey Qubein