Sleek, stylish, superb!
We have been to New York many times, and look forward to trying out a new hotel on every trip. As a relative 'newcomer' to the New York hotel scene we chose The James based on its central SoHo location and were intrigued to see if it was a good as all the reviewers say! 
For such a large hotel it still feels quite intimate. Service at every point during our stay (with the exception of breakfast one morning) was first class from the moment we stepped out the cab (charming door men) through to check in, with staff helpful and courteous throughout. We had drinks in Jimmy’s every night, and even though we entered after 9pm - when the bar is no longer accessible from the guest hotel elevator - we were given immediate access and didn’t have to queue with non guests. Perhaps not the most inexpensive bar in town, but worth the premium for the views and ambience. On our first night we decided to dine in at David Burke Kitchen - terrific food, buzzy atmosphere and just a short stroll to the elevator and our comfy bed...perfect. 
When booking we debated on whether to upgrade on the room and opted for a Corner King Studio room. I’m glad we did as this afforded us a great city views from its sleek modern and fully equipped interior. Sadly, it was just too cold to use the roof garden space, but we shall have to return in the spring to play some crocket on the lawn! Another plus was the complimentary coffee and pastries served in the Lobby, nice little touch that belies the size of the hotel....smaller ‘boutique’ hotels should take note. 
A perfect stay, aside from the poor service we received at breakfast one morning...down to one particular member of staff who disappeared for long periods of time (20mins) and didn’t offer us refills or appear particularly bothered in providing a service, which was made all the more apparent by the efficiency and professionalism of his colleagues. Shame. But despite this ‘hiccup’, we would return. This is a fabulous hotel and rates as one of one of my best hotel experiences in this great city.