Ace Hotel New Orleans
"First impressions? The exterior is fairly nondescript, as are most of the office conversions in the city’s Central Business District. Inside though, there's a wistful Art Deco vibe. What’s the crowd like? Whether the brand shapes the demographic or the demographic shapes the brand, you’re firmly in fashion-conscious creative territory here, though in stubbornly unfashionable New Orleans, it’s less jarring than it might otherwise be. Expect to mix with young and beautiful people around the rooftop pool. And, the rooms?Some would describe my Medium Room as stark, others refreshingly minimalist. I found it calming. The dark tiling of the bathrooms creates an usually louche atmosphere, and the walk-in shower was spacious. The products are a mix of Rudy’s toiletries and Pearl soaps. My only real complaint was the lighting. It seemed a little too dim (I couldn't turn up the brightness). How about the little things? I loved the interior design, especially the French Deco wooden furniture, chic light fixtures and comfy, leather-covered window seat. Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi strength and reliability confidently reflected the social media-focused priorities of the hotel’s guests. Anything else stand out?Two favorites part of the hotel: The rooftop pool and the live music venue Three Keys. Both have hopping weekend crowds. The three dining options, osteria Josephine Estelle, rooftop bar Alto and oyster-touting Seaworthy are pretty fantastic, too. Bottom line. If you know the Ace brand, it’s not going to surprise you. One of the boutique properties that recently injected new energy into the city's hotel scene, it's steps from Lafayette Square and some of the hottest tables in town." - Paul Oswell
