The Pod Hotel 51
The Pod Hotel 39, 145 East 39th St.
Pod 51 offers an experience unlike most New York hotels. Rather than merely serving a necessary function, the hotel is a destination in itself thanks to its conceptually fresh architecture, stylish decor, and excellent dining options.
The philosophy behind the hotel’s design – small is beautiful – finds its roots in the Japanese tradition of capsule hotels. The Pod (and its sibling, the Pod 39) offers lodging that ranges from the “bunk pod,” a tiny but appealing room equipped with bunk beds, to the “studio pod,” a more expansive space, all for relatively affordable prices. Despite the low square footage, the rooms never feel cramped, thanks to bright colors, creative furniture (a hanging chair, window side counters instead of a table), and an economical use of space.
The hotel offers a beautiful rooftop, replete with candy-colored deck chairs and a bar. Their cafe has outdoor seating in a lovely, unexpected bamboo garden. Finally, Pop@Pod, the result of collaboration between the hotel and Pop Burger, sits adjacent to the hotel.
