Roomer

Public Hotel

New York, NY, USA
$375-450/ night

Book this if You want to be the main character in a Lower East Side movie scene and care more about the lobby vibe than closet space.

Why People Love It

  • The neon orange escalator is an instant Instagram icon
  • Rooftop bar views that actually justify the $22 cocktails
  • Location is unbeatable for LES nightlife and dining

Quick Take: A stunningly photogenic social club that happens to have small, loud sleeping cabins attached.

Reviewed by @graceccheng: I stayed here for a weekend and the energy was incredible. The room was compact but super stylish with that wood finish. Honestly, I spent most of my time at the rooftop bar soaking in those skyline views. It’s the perfect spot if you want to be in the mix.

Guest Who Stayed Here Said

The hype

Visually spectacular and fun for a night out, but the rooms are tiny and the 'hands-off' service frustrates traditional luxury travelers.

Reality check

You are paying for the scene, not the square footage or the service.

  • You travel light and don't need help with luggage
  • You plan to spend 90% of your time out in the LES or at the rooftop bar
  • You appreciate minimalist, wood-paneled 'cabin' aesthetics

Cleanliness & Maintenance

8
  • Housekeeping: Daily service is standard, but high turnover means they rush. Check under the bed.
  • Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, but the open-concept sinks can lead to water splashing everywhere.
  • Maintenance: High traffic leads to scuffs on the wood paneling and occasional broken USB ports.
  • Linens & towels: Crisp and white, though some guests report them feeling a bit industrial/stiff.
  • Odors & scents: Lobby smells of expensive signature scent (leathery/woody); hallways can smell like cleaning products or weed.

Sleepability™

5.5MODERATE
MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
  • Thumping bass from the rooftop and Artspace club on weekends
  • Hallway noise due to gaps under doors
  • Street noise on lower floors (Chrystie St is busy)

Before you book

Good to know

  • There is no front desk; look for the 'Public Advisors' with iPads if the kiosks fail.
  • You must carry your own luggage to your room — there are no bell carts or porters.
  • Check-out is strictly 11 AM; late check-out is rarely granted without a fee.

What to pack

  • High-quality earplugs or a white noise machine
  • A portable steamer (rooms have them, but they are often weak)
  • Slip-on shoes for the airport-style security check at the club entrance

Room Genie

Best picks

  • Great View King (High Floor) — essential for the skyline views that make the small size forgivable
  • Loft Rooms — slightly more breathing room if you have luggage

Rooms to avoid

  • Lower floor rooms facing the street (sirens/traffic)
  • Rooms near the elevators (high foot traffic noise)

Room Request Genie – copy & paste

“I am a light sleeper and would appreciate a room on a high floor (10+), as far away from the elevators and the rooftop bar queue as possible. A view of the skyline rather than the street would be ideal.”

FAQ & Hidden tips

Everything you actually want to know before you book.

Is there really no front desk?

Correct. It's a bank of iPads. If they glitch (which they do), you have to flag down a floating staff member.

Can I store my bags before check-in?

Yes, but it's often chaotic. Staff will tag them, but you might have to haul them to the storage area yourself.

Is the rooftop bar free for guests?

Technically yes, you get priority access, but you still have to wait in line if it's at capacity (which is often).

How small are the rooms?

Tiny. 'Queen' rooms are often around 200 sq ft. Think cruise ship cabin meets Apple Store.

Is it kid-friendly?

Not really. It's a very adult, nightlife-focused atmosphere. The rooms are too small for cribs or extra beds.

What is the 'Facility Fee'?

A mandatory ~$51.64/night charge that covers Wi-Fi, gym access, and 'wellness classes' you probably won't take.

Insider Tips

  • ✨

    The 'bowery garden' area is a surprisingly quiet spot to work or take a call during the day.

  • ✨

    Skip the hotel breakfast; 'Louis' is overpriced. Go to Ludlow Coffee Supply nearby instead.

  • ✨

    The elevators can be slow and confusing (no buttons inside); select your floor *before* you get in.

5 things to know before you go

  • 💡The bathroom sink is often located in the main room, not the bathroom, which is awkward for couples.

  • 💡The lighting controls are high-tech but confusing — you might accidentally turn on all lights at 3 AM.

  • 💡The 'invisible service' means you are effectively your own bellhop and concierge.

  • 💡The neon escalator is the only way up to the lobby, so you make a grand entrance whether you want to or not.

  • 💡The shower pressure is surprisingly good, redeeming the small bathroom size.

Local Playbook

Map

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Key amenities & services