HotelChatter

XVI, which for non-Latin geeks translates to "sixteen," branches off from Highbar (which previously inhabited the space) with unexpected design touches like curved white tentacles and a giant movie projection screen. According to the website, XVI modestly bills itself as "...a lounge reminiscent of a chateau courtyard salon..." and "...in the style of Louis XVI, king of France who ruled from 1774-1791..."—vivid language for a Hilton rooftop bar! We would imagine that, in addition to historical political figures from Europe, the rooftop space will also appeal to the nearby after-work crowd. Other features include multiple fireplaces (not that New York needs them now, though), white leather couches (to match the tentacles, of course!), and a glass roof.

It seems like between adjustable bed dials and an exclusive, custom-made line of toiletries, Hilton is really stepping things up! We wonder how the scenes will differ at XVI versus the smaller, more intimate Rare View at Hilton Fashion District twenty blocks down—which was originally the only Hilton hotel with a rooftop bar. If you're in midtown and it's only a beer and an outdoor movie you're after, there's always the giant courtyard behind the Eventi Hotel. At least you won't be worrying about lines for the elevator there.

[Photo: XVI]