Reviews

Fodor's New York City 2011
“In a lovely brownstone on a landmark block in the heart of Chelsea, this small hotel is charming and a terrific value. Impeccable renovations have restored original woodwork to mint condition. The beds are the finest I've seen in this price category. The only place with a similar sensibility for the same money is the Larchmont Hotel, but there, all bathroom facilities are shared; at Chelsea Lodge, each room has its own sink and in-room shower stall, so you only have to share a toilet room with your neighbors. The rooms are petite, the open closets are small, and beds are full-size (queens wouldn't cut it). Considering the stylishness, the amenities, and the neighborhood, you'd be hard-pressed to do better for the money. It's best for couples rather than shares. Tip: Try to book no. 2A, which is bigger than most, or one of the first-floor rooms, whose high ceilings make them feel more spacious.” (p.133)
Fodor's New York City 2011
“Popular with Europeans and budget-conscious visitors, the Chelsea Lodge is a great location for guests who don't insist on a lot of amenities. Toilets are shared and down the hall for most rooms, but they do each have their own sink, shower, and TV. In this brownstone that's furnished with wainscoting, wallpaper, and hardwood floors the vibe is decidedly twee. The staff is quite amenable to requests, and best of all, the best of Chelsea, including galleries and Chelsea Market, is right outside your door. Pros: on a gorgeous Chelsea block; great bang for the buck; close to subway. Cons: not romantic; shared bathrooms not right for everyone.” (p.491)
Time Out New York (2010)
“"Lodge" in this case doesn’t denote an Econo-Lodge, but rather the kind you might find out in the woods—despite the inn’s situation in a landmark brownstone blocks from the Chelsea gallery district. This makes a bit more sense of the by turns whimsical, hilarious and bizarre mishmash of Americana—such as rough-hewn duck decoys, cutout roosters and early-20th-century photos—that adorns the pine paneling of the inn’s public spaces. While all of the hotel’s mostly tiny rooms come with TVs, showers and air-conditioning, nearly all share toilets, so it’s not for everyone. Still, the low prices and undeniable charm mean that it can fill up quickly.” (p.166)
Lonely Planet: NYC CITY GUIDE
“Housed in a landmark brownstone in Chelsea’s lovely historic district, the European-style, 20-room Chelsea Lodge is a super deal, with homey, well-kept rooms. Space is tight, so you won’t get more than a bed, with a tv (with cable) plopped on an old wooden cabinet. There are showers and sinks in rooms, but toilets are down the hall. Six suite rooms have private bathrooms, and two come with private garden access.” (p. 368-9)
DK Eyewitness Travel: New York City
“A lovingly restored townhouse in the Chelsea Historic District is the setting for this budget find. The small rooms have private sinks and showers, so guests only share toilet facilities. Perfect for independent travelers looking for a true NYC experience.” (p. 283)
Pauline Frommer’s NEW YORK CITY: Spend Less See More
“What do you get when you cross a traditional Greek Revival town house with a Midwestern hunting and fishing cabin? The result might be very close to what you find at the refreshingly original Chelsea Lodge***… an exceptionally well-kept and whimsical guesthouse in the heart of the neighborhood whose name it bears. The only downside here is that, with the exception of four suites/apartments, guest rooms have only showers and sinks, with guests sharing toilets, one for every four rooms. But that seem like a small inconvenience for lodgings this charming and friendly. There’s a down home feel, to be sure, with mounted swordfish and goose decoys overhanging the check-in desk, and brightly colored busts of Native Americans presiding over the stairs. Looking down from the walls are original hand-colored portraits of heaven-knows-who, giving that instant feeling of a family home, which is continued in the guest rooms with their gingham wallpaper, and Hershey kisses on each pillow. Rooms come equipped with free Wi-Fi, usable desks, and flatscreen cable TVs… Deluxe suites, some in the building, others down the block, come with their own bathrooms, kitchenette, and TW with DVD.” (p. 43)
The Rough Guide to New York (Rough Guide New York City)
The Lodge is a gem of a place: upon entrance, you'll be greeted by Early American/Sportsman décor. As a former boarding house, normal rooms, which offer in-room showers and sinks (there's a shared toilet down the hall), are a little snug for two, but the few deluxe rooms are great value and have full bathrooms. A three-day cancellation policy applies.” (P. 274)