The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York

In a beaux arts-style building dating from 1927, this plush hotel is 3 blocks from Rockefeller Center and an 11-minute walk from Grand Central station.

Decorated in conservative colors, upscale rooms and suites have custom pillows, marble baths, kitchenettes and 24-hour room service, plus flat-screen TVs, iPod docks and Wi-Fi; some suites have private outdoor terraces.

A stylish restaurant...