Originally built in 1908 for sailors, The Jane Hotel has since gone through many iterations and lifetimes. The building has housed Titanic survivors, the YMCA, off-off-Broadway theater, countless iconic parties, and even RuPaul.
Over a century later, guests from around the world continue to enjoy the most affordable MICHELIN-recommended hotel, perfect for solo (or duo) travelers on a tight budget. With rates as low as $129 a night, The Jane is unbeatable.
While The Jane Hotel is in The MICHELIN Guide, its rooms with shared restrooms are not. At the end of our Inspectors’ official hotel review, they make it clear that they only recommend the Captain’s Cabin rooms, accommodations with significantly more square footage as well as an en-suite bathroom. But I’m not an Inspector. I’m a member of the MICHELIN Guide editorial team and wanted to see what the least expensive rooms were really like.
Below, the rundown of just what to expect in The Jane’s most affordable rooms.
The Room
When entering the cabin, your imagination will transport you to the sea, feeling like a sailor exploring uncharted territory.If you’re not a daydreamer, that’s fine too. The room is equipped with all of the entertainment essentials: fast Wi-Fi, a TV, a dated iHome phone dock, and a sizable window for viewing the chatter of the city.
There are two primary room options: a single twin bed (one guest), or bunk beds (two guests).
Both options are only about 50 square feet (5 square meters), probably the smallest room you’ve ever slept in. Stretch your left arm to the left and stretch your right arm to the right. That’s about how wide it is.
It’s remarkably cozy.
The Shared Restroom
Yes, the best things (and deals) in life are shared. This is what makes these rooms at the Jane so affordable, and you may feel like you’re back in your first year of college as you take the short walk down the hallway. Unlike college, the restrooms are sparkling clean and well-stocked, with a design that features black and white tiles with wood accents, and a charming porthole window to match the seafaring theme.
The Public Areas
Formerly hosting some of Manhattan’s most exciting parties with guests like Justin Theroux, the public areas of the hotel have permanently closed. The ballroom, rooftop bar, restaurant, and historic lobby will not reopen.
The brand new lobby is in the basement, bright and white. Each time I returned, the reception always had a staff member ready to help. During the daytime, there was also a porter at the door.
The Location
The Jane Hotel’s location in the historic West Village is perfect. Cobblestone streets and European-style brownstones create a quaint oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Mere steps away is the Meatpacking District with the iconic Whitney Museum of Art and ever relaxing Little Island. Chelsea Market is around the corner.
For a breathtaking stroll in nature, the Hudson River Greenway along the water is right across the road, and the entrance to The High Line is two blocks down.
The Restaurants
Within a five minute walk from The Jane, MICHELIN restaurants for every palate abound.
French: Pastis, which is Stephen Colbert’s favorite.
Thai: Bangkok Supper Club, where Chacha serves the best cocktails in New York.
Korean: Genesis House Restaurant, which hosts beautiful exhibits and events.
Contemporary: The Dining Room at The Guesthouse, which is Tamron Hall’s date night spot.
Walk a bit farther, and you’ll hit even more cuisines.
Indian: Semma (One Star), where Vijay Kumar serves mouthwatering snails and goat intestines.
Italian: Don Angie, loved by Justin Theroux (don’t forget to order the iconic tiramisu).
Japanese: Noz 17 (One Star), the little sibling of Nozomu Abe’s Sushi Noz (Two Stars).
The Deal
At The Jane, prices for a standard cabin (one guest) are as low as $129 a night. Bunk bed cabins (two guests) are as low as $149 a night.
At a higher price, a couple of Captain’s Cabin rooms with en-suite bathrooms might be available, but were under renovation during my stay.
It's nearly impossible to find a deal as great as The Jane Hotel, especially given the location and room quality.
