Essence Hotel

OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!

The staff was great, but the property was run down. The bed barely fit in the room and there was hardly enough space to squeeze by the bed to access the bathroom. No chair in the room. The AC unit was right against the bed and blew air on me all night.

Location! Location! Great neighborhood to explore! Free and easy street parking. Room was tiny but its NY, you'll get used to it!