Call me skeptical. I did not believe the hype, but could not find a hotel in the top 50 in NYC that fit our plans, so I booked @ the Casablanca. Now I agree with the reviews. My wife called the ambience "cozy, Moroccon with a touch of Tommy Bahama style added." Despite arriving at 11AM, we were welcomed immediately. The second floor lounge fulfilled our every need after an early flight and no breakfast. Fruit, exceptional coffee and tea along with pastries and cookies fortified us for a lovely walk over to the Cathedrel and Rockefeller Center and Central Park. Heading East from the property we had no idea that we were just steps from the bussle of Times Square.
When we returned the room was still not ready until 2:45, and at any other property this would have been a huge disappointment. But here we felt at home in the lounge.
The room itself was equally well appointed with an extraordinarily comfortable Queen bed, and two sitting chairs and table. A comfortably-sized Bath and closet were perfect for a NYC room. Breakfast was quite generous, if not a hot meal. Wine and cheese from 5-8PM is both generous and well timed.
One minor note: very, very friendly guys at the desk, but several times their knowledge of the city showed to be a bit lacking (subway lines, directions, restaurant recs.)
And, yes, it is steps from Times Square,TKTS,and most Broadway shows. So too is it near Macy's and the all subway lines up or downtown. YES this hotel deserves to be #1: you will be well coddled. Reserve a room now!

The Casablanca was an adventure in "hotelerie" that made my short stay in NYC special. As a single female, I was made to feel comfortable and safe by a courteous and attentive staff from the concierges to the housekeepers. This is a little Boutique Hotel gem with imaginative and elegant decor, from the artwork and carved woodwork in the furnishings to the spacious marble baths, with a 24-hour lounge serving beverages/snacks so that I avoided having to lug bottled water, coffee, etc. I look forward to a return visit soon.

A fantastic hotel. We would definitely return. From the helpful staff (who couldn’t do more for you) to Rick’s café (which had lovely hot chocolate not to mention my favourite almond croissants) and the spacious King sized room to toiletries (which were replaced once used) this Hotel has it all. It’s ten steps from Times Square with Metro stations either way out of the hotel to wherever you want to go. It was comfy, in a great position and has everything you need. I am a very light, noise conscious sleeper but this hotel is soundproofed and we never heard anyone in the rooms next to us or from outside, except of course the police/ambulance or fire crews that passed! Cannot fault this hotel, great choice, awesome holiday.

We stayed here for 5 nights on our first visit to New York, and would agree with all the other comments here, this is a gem of a place, quirky but nice, and in a great location for the theatre district. Really a Bed and Breakfast hotel with limited breakfast choice, it is still possible to "send out" for a cooked breakfast if you really must. The early evening wine and cheese was very welcome, the free WiFi and guest computer (with printer!) a nice touch, and the staff are very helpful and friendly. Our room was fine, comfortable bed, enough space, and a remarkably good en-suite shower room. No view, but what do you expect in a city hotel? We certainly hope to visit New York again and would select this place again without hesitation.