Ink48 Makes Its Fido Mark
August 02, 2011 • Travel
In the printing business, an impression is that which is produced through a process. Very apropos with the locale of the aptly named upscale Manhattan hotel. Ink48. A former printing house in the heart of the Hell's Kitchen district of Manhattan, an indelible inspiration awaits the moment you step foot (and paw) in the front doors.
First impressions indeed are everlasting. Seeing my Fido's name etched onto a doggie-themed chalkboard in the lobby brightened our arrival. We soon discovered that Layla, French bulldog and director of pet relations, would tend to our canine needs.
The lobby ebbed and flow ala architectural modernity into the 80-seat restaurant on the first floor. One can't help but feel like a celebrity behind the velvet ropes that line the restaurant's grounds. We opted for room service, which we discovered lit up an already bright New York skyline.
The king suite's décor is boutique style; contemporary elegance meets comforting urban loftiness. A signature view of Manhattan leaves a picture-perfect postcard etched into guests' memories long after departure. Our suite offered a gorgeous backdrop of the Hudson River through the giant windows. New York hotel rooms can be synonymous with lack of size. Not so at Ink48. Our king room was 275 square feet. All guestrooms feature 11 to 15 feet ceilings and divine bathrooms. The Aveda products waiting on marble countertops soothed the senses.
What kind of mark does a former printing facility leave on the pawprints of Fido? Considered part of the family at Ink48, Fido has access to three nearby outdoor park/walk areas, doggy boutiques in the vicinity, and is provided with biscuits in the grand lobby of this unique hotel.
After a stroll at the Hudson River Park with Fido, our appetites beckoned to the home of this world-renowned district. Opting for room service, we chose the New York Strip steak, Caesar salad, fries and chocolate mousse cake for dessert. Room service was quick, staff hospitable, and nary a drop remained in an hour. It was that good.
Traveling with both four- and two-legged kids? Kimpton Hotels, of which Ink48 is one, offers a program that includes family-oriented activities and amenities called KimptonKids.
Thinking of a gorgeous rooftop setting with panoramic views for your wedding or reception? Ink48 hosts only one wedding at a time. Since Fido is welcome, walk down the aisle, leash in tow, on this magical day.
Guest rooms range from 250 to 1,100 square feet depending on preferences and budget. For a truly posh experience in this remarkable district, the Heaven over Hell's Kitchen Suite boasts a private 2,200 square rooftop terrace and deep oversized soaking Jacuzzi tub. Talk about leaving a mark.
A Chinese proverb in the welcome packet at Ink48 states, "The palest ink is better than the sharpest memory." The lasting impression Ink48 leaves on its Fido and his guardians is truly an indelible slice of New York at its finest.
More infomation can be found on the INK48 website.
Check out our July 2011 video walk-through of one of INK48's finest suites.
FIDO Friendly magazine Ink48 video footage
