"Why did this hotel catch your attention? What's the vibe?The exterior is a restored Beaux Arts building, with its late 1880s ornate details, but then you walk inside, and everything is sleek and minimalist, a mid-century-modern-esque aesthetic. Walking in that modern lobby, the first thing you see is the coffee bar. That’s right. You check in for your room with the barista. There’s no true regular reception desk. Instead, it is a buzzy feel with people sipping coffee or cocktails as you get your key. What's the backstory?The hotel was developed by the Aparium Hotel Group, which also is the group behind the Pontchartrain in New Orleans and other notable boutique hotels. Before 2018 this property was the Madison Hotel, decorated in dark velvets and Memphis blues themes. The complete renovation made the hotel a local hangout. It is named after Hugh Lawson White Brinkley, who was the grandson of one of the city of Memphis’ founders. He planned the historic building that now has a hotel that bears his nickname. Tell us all about the accommodations. Any tips on what to book?The hotel has 110 rooms, and like many hotels in historic buildings, they aren’t cookie-cutter sizes. Some are small—240 sq. ft.—while the suites can be nearly 900 sq. ft. Regardless of size, they all have sleek furnishings, comfortable seating, smartly-placed lighting, and lovely marble and tile accents and ample storage space. Thanks to its downtown location, the real appeal is the view: either of the city or the Mississippi River or, if you have a corner room, both. The blackout curtains allow you to block the city lights if you prefer. I'd ask for a river view on my return. Is there a charge for Wi-Fi?No charge and fast enough to stream Drinking and dining—what are we looking at?There are two spaces, Hu.Cafe and Hu.Roof, both of which are destinations for locals as well as tourists, and both of which are more focused on drinks than eats. Hu.Cafe is the open coffee shop space that the aforementioned front desk staff mans. It serves real coffee drinks and baked goods, plus eggs, burgers and sandwiches like pimento cheese. Hu.Roof is where you go—of course—for amazing rooftop views of the city and the Mississippi River, plus drinks and snacks like hummus and pickles. And the service?Everyone is friendly and helpful, particularly the housekeeping staff and the valet. The first floor situation, with the combined reception desk/café is fun and buzzy and exciting, but it does mean you may have wait while the barista helps another customer or two. It is particularly efficient, but it is part of the vibe. What type of travelers will you find here?Design matters to this group who may be here to take a photo showing off the great interiors or of the exterior views. The transformation of the Hu.Hotel from the Madison has brought the hotel back into the consciousness of locals, who may have business meetings here. The common spaces aren’t just for tourists. What about the neighborhood? Does the hotel fit in, make itself part of the scene?This is a solid downtown option. Less fussy and more updated than the Peabody (and less touristy). More affordable than some of the newer options. Walkable to the river and most downtown attractions. Is there anything you'd change?This is an old building. The elevators are slow. Any other hotel features worth noting?The beds and bed linens were true comfort. Great lighting for reading in bed. The whole layout of the room was great for working in the room or sleeping. The building was originally a bank and the gym is in the old vault. Bottom line: Worth it? Why?Yes. Great aesthetic. Not too fussy but not too minimal. Nice energy but not overly scene-y. Decent prices and priceless views of the city and the Mississippi." - Margaret Littman
