Hotel Check In: Andaz Wall Street

The Andaz Wall Street was the third Andaz hotel which is Hyatt’s upscale, yet funky competitor to W. The 13 story, 253 room hotel defines Lower Manhattan and exudes a sense of style and design in the heart of the city’s financial district. As such it does a good job of living up to the Andaz ethos while still remaining true to the area. And as a bonus it is usually affordable.

Quality and affordability don’t always go hand in hand in New York. New York has some of the world’s best hotels, and a few of the worst. It can be hit or miss with the big chains and so we know many seasoned travelers who go off book and don’t stay with their preferred hotel chain in NY because of the price or inconsistencies. Therefore Brand Bingo may not be as much of a thing in the Big Apple as it is elsewhere.

All this makes the Andaz Wall Street a good choice if you don’t have to be midtown or uptown. There were no suites when we checked in but our upgraded King with large soaking tub and walk-in rain shower was comfortable, quiet and quite spacious.

The large soaking tub and shower is separated from the bedroom by a window… very Asian feeling

The bathroom sink area was also open, though there was a privacy door for the toilet. The overall feel was slick but well appointed. Although the bathroom area was a little dark.

The room’s lighting was not designed for putting on make up

The open concept feeling provides light and a feeling of spaciousness, though for some people this could be less privacy than they prefer.

The bath and shower area still seemed a little dark, though tranquil

However the generous work and sitting area was comfortable and functional with lots of plugs and lots of natural light from the row of oversized windows.

This work area is separated from the open concept bathroom by a swiveling closet

Overall the hotel impressed with consistent service and quality amenities. Andaz’s don’t have lounges so they offer a happy hour between 6:00 and 7:00 pm with drinks. That’s a nice way to gather, have a glass of wine and then make a plan for the evening. The property’s Lower Manhattan location is a plus. There are a lot of newish bars and restaurants within walking distance and you’re quite close to Battery Park, Little Italy, Chinatown, SoHo, Greenwich Village, the Lower East Side and Brooklyn. No longer does the area around Wall Street close up in the evenings. It’s now quite active.

We recommend the Andaz Wall Street. Hyatt has a lot of different options in New York, but this property can be quite well priced, especially at the end of the week and on weekends, so it’s worth taking some time to plan your stay if you have flexibility.