10/10 Exceptional
Simply , an excellent choice for the Lower East Side stay
Sago is an embodiment and epitome of a true boutique hotel. Starting from the check-in process; there is only one small desk in the entrance area, with one employee manning it. The check-in process was efficient, cordial, and quick.
Our Deluxe Studio King was more than of a generous size, with an extra-long hallway separating your sleeping quarters as far from the elevator area as possible. That, however, didn't eliminate the rather poor soundproofing, noted by other reviewers. With that being said, it is not all that bad, considering an overall small size of the hotel, with about 4 rooms on each floor.
Our room featured a nice size bathroom, equipped with everything one might need, good choice of toiletries, even including a makeup remover. The shower stall is really spacious, featuring a wooden floor, pleasant to touch (as far as one's feet are concerned). Additionally, there is a big bathtub located in a kind of alcove or a niche, in the hallway leading to the room itself.
The bed was very comfortable. The kitchenette with a Keurig coffee maker, a cooktop and a fridge, serving also as a mini-bar, is an added plus for longer stays. The view to the historic Orchard Street was very good too.
There is a separate relaxation/chilling area by the window, that could also serve as an extra sleeping place.
The lack of the overhead lighting didn't feel like a nuisance to us, considering the overall boutique nature of the hotel.
The welcoming gift, advertized by AmEx Travel, materialized into 2 candies and a welcoming letter. The VOS bottle of water was complimentary.
The hotel doesn't have a restaurant, The John Lamb restaurant went out of business about 6 months ago, in the wake of a conflict between the hotel's and restaurant's owners; however, the LES offers multiple dining options, within less than 5 minutes' walk.
The hotel also provides you with a free pass to the nearby Ludlow Fitness, which address is 100 Delancey St, but the entrance is from Ludlow St. The fitness center is located on the 2nd floor and offers a few scarce machines, but plenty of cardio equipment and free weights. Please bear in mind, the advertized 'open 24 hours' part is not true, on weekends it opens at 8 AM, and closes at 9 PM.
Sago provides a humble Happy Hour, a selection of a few alcohol choices, and about 2 kinds of cheeses and crackers. The Happy Hour area, located on the 10th floor, is quite small, features 2 or 3 chairs, but offers an access to the 10th floor balcony with an amazing view to Allen and Delancey streets and Manhattan skyline.
The Wi-Fi is free but glitchy at times. The amount of electrical outlets for charging your devices is adequate.
All-in-all, considering the great location, lower prices, and well-appointed rooms, we won't hesitate to rate the hotel 5 stars. Highly recommended.
For your parking, the affordable parking at 59, Allen St would run you about $30 for a 24-hrs period. The parking is less than 5 minutes' walk to/from the hotel.