If you’re hunting for a unique place to hang your hat near Soho and Little Italy, Arlo’s one of your best bets. Opened in September of 2016, Arlo brings a soon-to-be futuristic lobby (the hotel is working on digital check-in kiosks at the moment), plus a small bodega, a lounge area, a study area, conference spaces, a tasty food hall-style restaurant (Harold’s Meat + Three) and a rooftop indoor-outdoor bar. Guests should be aware that its reputation as a micro hotel isn’t exactly exaggerating—these rooms feel pretty tight even for one person. But what it lacks in room space, it makes up for in location and amenities. While Arlo is still trying it nail down its vibe/clientele, the brand new lounge spaces are relaxed and welcoming, and they have attentive servers and bartenders. The rooftop bar is also especially beautiful and offers stunning views, indoor seating and outdoor bench-style seating, plus Arlo plans to host yoga and other fitness classes there in warmer months.
Inside the compact hotel rooms, you’ll find beds nestled inside wall-to-wall wood paneled nooks, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi (throughout the hotel), Somfy smart system shades and a space-saving desk—great for folks who plan to spend much of their day out and about and just need a comfy spot to return to in the evening. The bed, shower and bathroom are in one room with a glass separation, and guests are offered pump-style shampoo, conditioner and body wash plus hand soap. You won’t find your usual hotel amenities like an extra toothbrush or toothpaste readily available, and guests should be aware that the rooms do not include a minibar or coffee. The bodega downstairs does carry snacks, sandwiches etc. for cheaper than you might find in a minibar, but you’ll definitely be paying Starbucks-level prices for food and a cup of joe.
Towards the back of the hotel, you’ll find Harold’s Meat + Three, a refined-yet-relaxed food hall-style dining experience with a throwback feel. Harold’s’ menu style is exactly as it sounds: you pick one meat option and three delicious sides, with treats like macaroni and cheese, crushed cauliflower and stuffed artichoke hearts being house favorites. The menu is definitely family-friendly (with amazing selections and drinks for adults as well), so even the pickiest eaters (of any age) have no choice but to leave happy and full.
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For folks with children in tow, Arlo is within walking distance to both the New York City Fire Museum and Children’s Museum of the Arts (and Dominique Ansel for sweet treats). Adults-only celebrations can also head over to City Winery (just three blocks north) for delicious Italian, French, Spanish and Middle-Eastern-influenced meals with wine pairings.