Hotel Stays: Kimpton Theta New York

I’m usually a bit wary of midtown Manhattan hotels. Living in New York for nearly 20 years, I’ve been conditioned to avoid midtown whenever possible; it’s hectic, noisy, and honestly, most of the hotels in the area have rooms so tiny you might as well be sleeping in a shoebox.

So, heading over to the Kimpton Hotel Theta on Eighth Avenue, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

From the outside, the building has that classic, somewhat institutional look that could be mistaken for an old hospital or apartment building.

But once you step inside, it’s a completely different story. Kimpton has given this place a total makeover—top to bottom—and it genuinely feels like a modern, welcoming retreat from the moment you walk in.

These bikes are available to rent in the lobby.

I was invited to stay at the hotel on Halloween, of all nights, and but really the guest of honor here was Dash. If you know Kimpton, you probably know that every one of their hotels is pet-friendly, with no fees or restrictions on weight, size, or number of pets.

No one at check-in batted an eye at Dash trotting alongside me, which was a great start. They even had me fill out a waiver that was written from the pet’s perspective, a quirky little touch that I couldn’t help but laugh at. It basically said, “If I make a lot of noise, my human is going to be held responsible,” which, fair enough.

Roomier Than Expected—With a View

Getting to our room, I braced myself for the usual cramped NYC hotel setup, but the Kimpton Theta surprised me.

The room was actually spacious, at least by Manhattan standards, with enough room to fit a couch and even some extra space to stretch out without bumping into walls. We were on the 14th floor with a view of the Hudson River, which was a nice bonus. You could still hear the city noise (it’s midtown, after all), but the view was worth it.

What really impressed me was how thoughtful the room felt. Along with the typical hotel amenities, there was a sign in the bathroom that listed all sorts of extra items you could call down for—things you don’t often think to ask for but might need, like a toothbrush, deodorant, tampons, and even a lint roller.

And most important of all (to me), they had a note saying you could call and request a coffee machine. This is huge for me. I need my coffee the second I open my eyes in the morning, so I called Housekeeping, and within ten minutes, they brought up a Keurig with a stash of K-cups. And if you’re someone who prefers fresh drip coffee, there’s a café downstairs that offers it free of charge, though the hours can be hit or miss.

Dog-Friendly Extras

I’ve stayed at other Kimpton hotels, so I knew they’d be prepared for Dash, but it was still nice to see how pet-friendly they are.

The hotel will provide you with bowls, treats, and even a dog bed. And not only are there no fees, but they don’t limit the number of pets or restrict sizes, which is a rarity in the city.

They also partner with WAG! Premium, so if you need someone to watch or walk your pet while you explore the city, you can easily set that up.

If you need something specific for your pet, you can call Housekeeping, and they’re pretty quick to bring it up. We didn’t see a water bowl at first, so I called down, and they brought one right up, which was collapsible and perfect for travel. It’s those little thoughtful details that really make a difference.

Amenities for Humans

One thing I appreciate in any hotel is a decent gym, and while the gym at the Kimpton Theta is pretty small, it’s open 24/7 and has all the essentials—treadmills, stationary bikes, weights, and mats. It’s enough for a quick workout if you’re trying to stay active during your trip.

But let’s be honest; one of Kimpton’s main perks is the daily happy hour. From 5 to 6 p.m., they offer complimentary wine at the rooftop bar, Bar Sprezzatura, on the 15th floor.

When we went up, they were pouring La Vieille Ferme wines, which are a solid choice, and we were able to enjoy them on the outdoor terrace. We lucked out with warm October weather, so sipping wine as the sun set over the Hudson was definitely a highlight.

Dining Options

Kimpton Theta has two dining options. The first is the café in the lobby, which offers free drip coffee during certain hours—great for those who want to grab a quick coffee on their way out.

The second is Bar Sprezzatura, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is a standard continental buffet, but dinner was genuinely impressive.

The menu has a Mediterranean vibe, with dishes like cheese plates, pasta, and spritzes that made me feel like I’d stepped into a little corner of the Amalfi Coast. It’s a laid-back, almost breezy space with an ambiance that’s rare to find in midtown.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Kimpton Hotel Theta changed my perception of Midtown hotels. It’s not only comfortable and convenient but actually enjoyable to stay in, whether you’re traveling with a pet or not. The rooms are spacious enough to feel relaxed, and the hotel itself has this understated elegance without feeling stuffy or overly designed. Kimpton has found a nice balance, creating spaces that feel modern and welcoming, with enough personality to set them apart from the usual midtown fare.

And if you’re a pet owner, it’s easily one of the best hotel options in the area. You can skip the pet fees, bring your dog along without worry, and enjoy a truly pet-friendly setup where your four-legged friend is as welcome as you are. With its prime location just steps from the subway, it’s easy to explore the city, and when you return, there’s plenty to appreciate back at the hotel.

Final Verdict: Whether you’re looking for a staycation spot, a pet-friendly retreat, or just a reliable place to crash in midtown, the Kimpton Theta has you covered.