Essence hotel
From
$117
/ night
Select dates to see prices and availability
From
$117
/ night
About this property
Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access, a television in a common area, and a vending machine.
Amenities
Make use of convenient amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access, a television in a common area, and a vending machine.
Business amenities
Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and luggage storage.
Dining
Take advantage of the hotel's room service. A complimentary on-the-go breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Rooms
Stay in one of 42 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with Egyptian cotton sheets. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature rainfall showerheads and designer toiletries.
Location
With a stay at Essence Hotel, you'll be centrally located in Brooklyn, within a 5-minute drive of Barclays Center Brooklyn and Brooklyn Bridge. This hotel is 3.7 mi (6 km) from Wall Street and 4 mi (6.4 km) from New York University.
What's nearby
Barclays Center Brooklyn(0.6 miles)
Prospect Park(1 miles)
Brooklyn Bridge Park(1.5 miles)
Brooklyn Bridge(1.5 miles)
Brooklyn Botanic Gardens(1.6 miles)
Manhattan Bridge(1.6 miles)
Brooklyn Navy Yard(1.6 miles)
New York Harbor(1.6 miles)
Brooklyn Heights Promenade(1.8 miles)
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal(2.1 miles)
Wall Street(2.6 miles)
Sunset Park(2.8 miles)
South Street Seaport(2.9 miles)
New York Stock Exchange(3 miles)
Battery Park(3.1 miles)
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)(11.5 miles)
Newark Liberty Intl. Airport (EWR)(22.3 miles)
John F. Kennedy Intl. Airport (JFK)(25.4 miles)
Teterboro, NJ (TEB)(17.3 miles)
Stewart Intl. Airport (SWF)(73.8 miles)
Parking
Free Wi-Fi
Non-Smoking Rooms
Housekeeping
Luggage Storage
Vending Machines
Location
611 Degraw Street, Gowanus, New York (and vicinity), New York, United States of America
Barclays Center Brooklyn (0.6 miles)
Prospect Park (1 miles)
Brooklyn Bridge Park (1.5 miles)
Brooklyn Bridge (1.5 miles)
Brooklyn Botanic Gardens (1.6 miles)
Manhattan Bridge (1.6 miles)
Room options
4
Twin Bed
Room details
1 Twin Bed
Sleeps 2
Air ConditioningWi-Fi (Free)Private Bathroom
4
Full Room
Room details
1 Full Bed
Sleeps 2
Air ConditioningWi-Fi (Free)Private Bathroom
4
Queen Accessible Room
Room details
1 Queen Bed
Sleeps 2
Air ConditioningWi-Fi (Free)Private Bathroom
4
Standard King Room
Room details
1 King Bed
Sleeps 2
Air ConditioningWi-Fi (Free)Private Bathroom
4
Standard Queen Room
Room details
1 Queen Bed
Sleeps 2
Air ConditioningWi-Fi (Free)Private Bathroom
Guest reviews
7.1
Good
Based on 348 verified reviews
What guests think
AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Across the reviews, Essence hotel is described as a no-frills, budget stay with extremely small rooms, a convenient Brooklyn location near transit and Barclays Center, mixed cleanliness, and frequent noise, with staff often friendly but inconsistently responsive.
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What guests think
Across the reviews, Essence hotel is described as a no-frills, budget stay with extremely small rooms, a convenient Brooklyn location near transit and Barclays Center, mixed cleanliness, and frequent noise, with staff often friendly but inconsistently responsive.
Breakfast is a simple bag when available, and several guests reported no breakfast despite listings. Some reviews also mention safety concerns, renovation activity, and occasional odors. Best for short stays when price and location matter more than space or amenities.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Facilities
Facilities are limited with few on-site amenities; some noted no gym. Street parking nearby was sometimes easy, and occasional renovations or maintenance work were observed.
Related guest reviews
8
Lawrence
Oct 9, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice accommodations if not a bit tight, good AC, great folks, no food, workout or any other ammenities
Nice accommodations if not a bit tight, good AC, great folks, no food, workout or any other ammenities
2
Marie
Sep 7, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Room are extremely small no fridge no microwave the bathroom is in the same room area with the bedroom. Staff smell need to shower. And the over charge people like $354 per night. Area smell really bad . I will never refer anyone there
Room are extremely small no fridge no microwave the bathroom is in the same room area with the bedroom. Staff smell need to shower. And the over charge people like $354 per night. Area smell really bad . I will never refer anyone there
6
Daphne
Sep 15, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The staff at the front desk were amazing. Incredible customer service & assistance. The cleaning staff were not as helpful and were rarely seen. As for the appearance there was some work being done on my floor, outside my room. However, the staff at front desk were very helpful they asked if we were ok, if we needed to change locations but we were ok.
The staff at the front desk were amazing. Incredible customer service & assistance. The cleaning staff were not as helpful and were rarely seen. As for the appearance there was some work being done on my floor, outside my room. However, the staff at front desk were very helpful they asked if we were ok, if we needed to change locations but we were ok.
10
Marc
May 8, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Friendly, welcoming staff. The hotel room itself is small, but at least it's been remodeled, and the bathroom was good. Also appreciated having a small refrigerator.
Friendly, welcoming staff. The hotel room itself is small, but at least it's been remodeled, and the bathroom was good. Also appreciated having a small refrigerator.
4
Sheila
Sep 12, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Apparently the hotel changed ownership the day after I booked (8/27). Was initially told 2 days prior to check in my reservation was cancelled. Hotel.com was able to correct that. The room had a king size bed (which was comfortable) but it literally took up 98% of the room. No ironing board/iron after there was a sign in the room stating to ask for one and when I did they said they didn’t have one. I stayed from Saturday to Tuesday , Monday I work remotely and even though the WiFi was great. They were doing renovations and had to come into my room to put a lock on the window. Which was a nuisance. It says serve breakfast but you get a bag of children’s snacks, water and a box juice. The kitchen area in the basement had mattresses and AC units stored there. so that was out of the question. The basement area had an ice machine with mold where employees would store cans of soda with no ice scoop. The shower had no enclosure so the water would just pool on the floor. Yeah I got what I paid for under $600….but I had fun at the Usher concert
Apparently the hotel changed ownership the day after I booked (8/27). Was initially told 2 days prior to check in my reservation was cancelled. Hotel.com was able to correct that. The room had a king size bed (which was comfortable) but it literally took up 98% of the room. No ironing board/iron after there was a sign in the room stating to ask for one and when I did they said they didn’t have one. I stayed from Saturday to Tuesday , Monday I work remotely and even though the WiFi was great. They were doing renovations and had to come into my room to put a lock on the window. Which was a nuisance. It says serve breakfast but you get a bag of children’s snacks, water and a box juice. The kitchen area in the basement had mattresses and AC units stored there. so that was out of the question. The basement area had an ice machine with mold where employees would store cans of soda with no ice scoop. The shower had no enclosure so the water would just pool on the floor. Yeah I got what I paid for under $600….but I had fun at the Usher concert
2
Jennifer
Oct 7, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Horrible. Wires sticking out of the walls. Fire alarms covered with masking tape. Room light hanging by a wire up against the wall. Floors in the bathroom were dirty. And non-stop banging from construction. It was so bad that I did not feel safe staying there and opted to get a different hotel for the night.
Horrible. Wires sticking out of the walls. Fire alarms covered with masking tape. Room light hanging by a wire up against the wall. Floors in the bathroom were dirty. And non-stop banging from construction. It was so bad that I did not feel safe staying there and opted to get a different hotel for the night.
10
candice
Aug 15, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Location! Location! Great neighborhood to explore! Free and easy street parking. Room was tiny but its NY, you'll get used to it!
Location! Location! Great neighborhood to explore! Free and easy street parking. Room was tiny but its NY, you'll get used to it!
6
David
Oct 13, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Needed a last minute room while visiting family member in hospital- Essence looked new, price was right. Room was very small, bathroom was pristine and clean, shower worked well. Just there for one night. The bullet proof glass at front desk threw me off, but fine for a night. Threes Brewery around the corner was great.
Needed a last minute room while visiting family member in hospital- Essence looked new, price was right. Room was very small, bathroom was pristine and clean, shower worked well. Just there for one night. The bullet proof glass at front desk threw me off, but fine for a night. Threes Brewery around the corner was great.
8
Secundino
Sep 28, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Everything was great the room was very clean, just too small and did not have a refrigerator.
Everything was great the room was very clean, just too small and did not have a refrigerator.
10
Larry
Sep 8, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
I'll be coming back for sure. Easy parking, great bed, helpful nice staff.
I'll be coming back for sure. Easy parking, great bed, helpful nice staff.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Cleanliness
Cleanliness feedback is mixed: many found rooms and bathrooms clean, while others reported dirty floors, hair in bedding, bugs, and dusty or unkept corridors.
Related guest reviews
10
Matt
Sep 9, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!
OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!
4
Anthony
Oct 12, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Not clean at all. I had to kill a bug. Man was screaming at the top of his lungs from 5-10am ruining my party and myself’s sleep. I will never be back and do NOT recommend anyone waste their time or money here.
Not clean at all. I had to kill a bug. Man was screaming at the top of his lungs from 5-10am ruining my party and myself’s sleep. I will never be back and do NOT recommend anyone waste their time or money here.
10
Alan
Oct 15, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
The hotel was clean and well kept. The room was standard for NYC. It was a value for the location and easy to get around.
The hotel was clean and well kept. The room was standard for NYC. It was a value for the location and easy to get around.
2
Katharine
Oct 4, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Filthy, horrible “hotel.” It was so dirty and loud all night. Looks absolutely nothing like the pictures on this website. There is no way they’re from the same building. We complained to this site and they refused to help us with a refund despite the photos being fraudulent. Do not stay here. You would be better off at a hostel. We would’ve left immediately, but we didn’t have anywhere else to stay. We did cancel our second two nights.
Filthy, horrible “hotel.” It was so dirty and loud all night. Looks absolutely nothing like the pictures on this website. There is no way they’re from the same building. We complained to this site and they refused to help us with a refund despite the photos being fraudulent. Do not stay here. You would be better off at a hostel. We would’ve left immediately, but we didn’t have anywhere else to stay. We did cancel our second two nights.
10
Shanel
Nov 1, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
When we first got there i can smell how clean it was, instantly I knew I was going to have a great stay. Staff were very nice I would definitely stay again.
When we first got there i can smell how clean it was, instantly I knew I was going to have a great stay. Staff were very nice I would definitely stay again.
10
Jill
Dec 19, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Room was very clean.
Room was very clean.
2
Necole
Jan 7, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
I had an extremely disappointing experience at this hotel. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that the property was outdated and poorly maintained. The building itself was old and crusty, with an overall sense of neglect that made me uncomfortable. The cleanliness was unacceptable—filthy carpets, dusty surfaces, and a lingering smell that made staying in the room unbearable. The room was shockingly small, offering barely enough space to move around. To make matters worse, the TV was unreliable, freezing every few minutes while trying to watch something, which added to the frustration. The entire experience left me feeling mortified. I made sure to document everything with pictures because the state of the room was beyond unacceptable. I cannot recommend this hotel to anyone and strongly suggest looking elsewhere for accommodations.
I had an extremely disappointing experience at this hotel. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that the property was outdated and poorly maintained. The building itself was old and crusty, with an overall sense of neglect that made me uncomfortable. The cleanliness was unacceptable—filthy carpets, dusty surfaces, and a lingering smell that made staying in the room unbearable. The room was shockingly small, offering barely enough space to move around. To make matters worse, the TV was unreliable, freezing every few minutes while trying to watch something, which added to the frustration. The entire experience left me feeling mortified. I made sure to document everything with pictures because the state of the room was beyond unacceptable. I cannot recommend this hotel to anyone and strongly suggest looking elsewhere for accommodations.
6
David
Oct 13, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Needed a last minute room while visiting family member in hospital- Essence looked new, price was right. Room was very small, bathroom was pristine and clean, shower worked well. Just there for one night. The bullet proof glass at front desk threw me off, but fine for a night. Threes Brewery around the corner was great.
Needed a last minute room while visiting family member in hospital- Essence looked new, price was right. Room was very small, bathroom was pristine and clean, shower worked well. Just there for one night. The bullet proof glass at front desk threw me off, but fine for a night. Threes Brewery around the corner was great.
6
Iura
Oct 1, 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
O hotel é o que se espera pelo preço, e muito bem localizado, próximo a estação de metro. Os staffs amigáveis, oferecem uma bag de café da manhã e disponibilizam geladeira no quarto. Porém deveriam investir mais na limpeza.. cabelos nas toalhas, pó, sujeira no geral pelo quarto.
O hotel é o que se espera pelo preço, e muito bem localizado, próximo a estação de metro. Os staffs amigáveis, oferecem uma bag de café da manhã e disponibilizam geladeira no quarto. Porém deveriam investir mais na limpeza.. cabelos nas toalhas, pó, sujeira no geral pelo quarto.
4
Karina
Nov 11, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Bed was not clean and there was hair and dirt in the bed
Bed was not clean and there was hair and dirt in the bed
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Rooms
Rooms are extremely small with tight layouts, minimal furniture and outlets, and little space for luggage; several noted high beds or AC units positioned close to the bed. Noise from halls or neighboring rooms was a recurring issue, and minor maintenance quirks appeared.
Related guest reviews
6
Nancie
Aug 24, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Clean, pretty good shower and mattress. But very uncomfortable room: only an overhead light, no nightstand to put a lamp or a cup of coffee on, lots of sharp corners/edges to hit your legs on. Expensive for what you get. Sorry won’t be back.
Clean, pretty good shower and mattress. But very uncomfortable room: only an overhead light, no nightstand to put a lamp or a cup of coffee on, lots of sharp corners/edges to hit your legs on. Expensive for what you get. Sorry won’t be back.
6
Emily Suzanne
Oct 13, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Great staff and location. Room layout was a challenge since there was less than a foot to get to the other side of the bed. Also time for maintenance. Great location tho!
Great staff and location. Room layout was a challenge since there was less than a foot to get to the other side of the bed. Also time for maintenance. Great location tho!
6
Michal
Nov 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Friendly staff, clean, super small Room 1 foot bigger than a bed.
Friendly staff, clean, super small Room 1 foot bigger than a bed.
4
Mariana
Sep 24, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
You can hear everything from other rooms. People playing loud music until 3 am. Bed had hairs and it was itchy. Room is so tiny I couldn’t even open my bag on the floor. Everything in the room is broken down.
You can hear everything from other rooms. People playing loud music until 3 am. Bed had hairs and it was itchy. Room is so tiny I couldn’t even open my bag on the floor. Everything in the room is broken down.
6
Linden
Sep 3, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
tiny rooms, no space to move around, no table
tiny rooms, no space to move around, no table
6
Paul
Dec 22, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The room is very small but we were expecting that. The water took a long time to get warm/hot. The hotel is a bit noisy, but we brought earplugs. They advertised that they served breakfast but there was no breakfast offered. Luckily there are plenty of good food options nearby. It's a decent place to stay if you're not planning on spending any time at the hotel except to sleep.
The room is very small but we were expecting that. The water took a long time to get warm/hot. The hotel is a bit noisy, but we brought earplugs. They advertised that they served breakfast but there was no breakfast offered. Luckily there are plenty of good food options nearby. It's a decent place to stay if you're not planning on spending any time at the hotel except to sleep.
6
David
Dec 7, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Just the minimum standard. Room was super small (no trim for a chair - could hardly walk around the bed) and condition was bare bones. Hallway reeked of pot smoking and there was some random hammering late into the night
Just the minimum standard. Room was super small (no trim for a chair - could hardly walk around the bed) and condition was bare bones. Hallway reeked of pot smoking and there was some random hammering late into the night
10
Charles
Sep 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
The staff was great, but the property was run down. The bed barely fit in the room and there was hardly enough space to squeeze by the bed to access the bathroom. No chair in the room. The AC unit was right against the bed and blew air on me all night.
The staff was great, but the property was run down. The bed barely fit in the room and there was hardly enough space to squeeze by the bed to access the bathroom. No chair in the room. The AC unit was right against the bed and blew air on me all night.
6
Al
Oct 7, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Space was clean, but could use a second coat of paint. Room was dark enough to sleep in, which is unusual for NYC, but my room was next to the front desk, and my door was not soundproofed. It was very hard to sleep from about 5 to 7 AM each day due to the noise, and the front desk didn't even offer towels to put around the door.
Space was clean, but could use a second coat of paint. Room was dark enough to sleep in, which is unusual for NYC, but my room was next to the front desk, and my door was not soundproofed. It was very hard to sleep from about 5 to 7 AM each day due to the noise, and the front desk didn't even offer towels to put around the door.
6
LIONEL
Sep 3, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The area was good. The only thing I dont like was the size of the room. There no space to open your suitcase. I have to walk sizeway to go around the bed.
The area was good. The only thing I dont like was the size of the room. There no space to open your suitcase. I have to walk sizeway to go around the bed.
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Service
Staff are generally friendly and helpful, with smooth check-ins and occasional flexibility. However, responses to noise or safety complaints and refund requests were inconsistent.
Related guest reviews
2
Ian
Sep 4, 2024
·
Stayed 1 night
Extremely loud - the front desk is the one blasting Indian Musi a through the night, I was up from 2am until the rest of the night and they refused even a partially refund. Even after I showed the manager the videos I recorded. DO NOT STAY HERE.
Extremely loud - the front desk is the one blasting Indian Musi a through the night, I was up from 2am until the rest of the night and they refused even a partially refund. Even after I showed the manager the videos I recorded. DO NOT STAY HERE.
10
Andrew
Sep 29, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Rooms are very small but clean. Staff were friendly and allowed a late check out without extra charge.
Rooms are very small but clean. Staff were friendly and allowed a late check out without extra charge.
10
Jessica
Nov 1, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff is friendly. Room was clean upon arrival. Perfect if you’re solo traveling through New York and are planning to stay in Brooklyn.
Staff is friendly. Room was clean upon arrival. Perfect if you’re solo traveling through New York and are planning to stay in Brooklyn.
10
Astrid
Oct 16, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Great and helpful staff!
Great and helpful staff!
10
Stephen
Jul 11, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
staff was awesome!
staff was awesome!
2
Tanya
Sep 12, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Staff was very unprofessional
Staff was very unprofessional
2
Claudia Adriana
Sep 23, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The hotel was poor. My room was so incredibly small that I had to open my suitcase in the bathroom (paradoxically pretty large). There was a folded desk but there was litteraly no space to open it so it only served as night table. I could hardly walk in the room. Open the door, two steps leading to the bathroom and the rest of the space was the bed. there was a night lamp but since there was only one plug if i wanted to recharge my phone I had to unplug the lamp. Breakfast is served as a take-away bag with juice, bar, biscuits. The first day, no more bags left for us (!) The last day we wanted to leave the luggage and take it before heading to the airport. The desk said that until 1pm it was free, from 1pm to 4 pm they charged us 50$. On arrival my friend's credit card was charged double the amount agreed on reservation! They said it was an upgrade of the room. We didn't realize it immediately because they did not print any receipt. We checked on our accounts and discovered. When asked they said it was an upgrade. We complained and they finally refunded. Overall, not a choice I would do again. Location was convenintly close to subway.
The hotel was poor. My room was so incredibly small that I had to open my suitcase in the bathroom (paradoxically pretty large). There was a folded desk but there was litteraly no space to open it so it only served as night table. I could hardly walk in the room. Open the door, two steps leading to the bathroom and the rest of the space was the bed. there was a night lamp but since there was only one plug if i wanted to recharge my phone I had to unplug the lamp. Breakfast is served as a take-away bag with juice, bar, biscuits. The first day, no more bags left for us (!) The last day we wanted to leave the luggage and take it before heading to the airport. The desk said that until 1pm it was free, from 1pm to 4 pm they charged us 50$. On arrival my friend's credit card was charged double the amount agreed on reservation! They said it was an upgrade of the room. We didn't realize it immediately because they did not print any receipt. We checked on our accounts and discovered. When asked they said it was an upgrade. We complained and they finally refunded. Overall, not a choice I would do again. Location was convenintly close to subway.
2
Cameron
Sep 23, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Mentally unstable guest screamed the whole afternoon and night. Had to leave at 1:00am and sleep in the airport. Asked for help from the staff early in the day and the said they was handling it and never did anything.
Mentally unstable guest screamed the whole afternoon and night. Had to leave at 1:00am and sleep in the airport. Asked for help from the staff early in the day and the said they was handling it and never did anything.
10
Larry
Sep 8, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
I'll be coming back for sure. Easy parking, great bed, helpful nice staff.
I'll be coming back for sure. Easy parking, great bed, helpful nice staff.
8
Kaylah
Oct 14, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great service
Great service
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Location
Convenient Brooklyn base near Barclays Center, subway lines, restaurants, and shops, making it easy to reach Manhattan. A few guests felt nearby activity or the immediate environment detracted from comfort.
Related guest reviews
10
Matt
Sep 9, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!
OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!
4
Nathan
Nov 23, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Room was unsafe and maintenance on the room was poor. Location in relation to Barclays Center was convenient.
Room was unsafe and maintenance on the room was poor. Location in relation to Barclays Center was convenient.
10
Shantu
Apr 1, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
awesome neighborhood. very close to the barclays center!
awesome neighborhood. very close to the barclays center!
10
Philip
Sep 24, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Had a great stay! Small room but great for the price. Staff is very friendly, and location is great. Easy commute to manhattan and close to bars/restaurants.
Had a great stay! Small room but great for the price. Staff is very friendly, and location is great. Easy commute to manhattan and close to bars/restaurants.
10
Luis
Sep 17, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
Great location
Great location
10
candice
Aug 15, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Location! Location! Great neighborhood to explore! Free and easy street parking. Room was tiny but its NY, you'll get used to it!
Location! Location! Great neighborhood to explore! Free and easy street parking. Room was tiny but its NY, you'll get used to it!
6
Quinton
Aug 24, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The place is in a nice location but the rooms are very small with unpainted repaired patches or places where repairs were needed.
The place is in a nice location but the rooms are very small with unpainted repaired patches or places where repairs were needed.
10
Thomas
Sep 18, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Very close to public transportation. Room I'd very small but but good for one person. Location is super convenient. Staff great.
Very close to public transportation. Room I'd very small but but good for one person. Location is super convenient. Staff great.
10
Carlee
Sep 23, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Great location if you’re going to an event at Barclays Center. Also affordable pricing
Great location if you’re going to an event at Barclays Center. Also affordable pricing
10
Beth
Dec 20, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Great stay, would stay there again. No frills, but clean and a great location for the right price
Great stay, would stay there again. No frills, but clean and a great location for the right price
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
Dining
Dining is very limited: breakfast, when offered, is a simple bag, and several guests said no breakfast was provided despite listings. No on-site dining beyond the bagged breakfast was reported.
Related guest reviews
10
Matt
Sep 9, 2025
·
Stayed 3 nights
OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!
OK, let's get it out of the way: YES! The rooms are very compact. So, expect to have to scoot around the bed and not have much room for stuff. I took a star off for cleanliness because the hard floor was dirty and we tracked bits and other people's hair into the bed. So, the cleaners need better training. The bed was super comfortable. The sheets were clean. The HVAC works very well. The shower was nice and hot. The staff are incredibly friendly and very helpful. The bagged breakfast (with 7 different things!) and endless coffee in the basement cafeteria are nice touches. The location to the Barclay and Paramount is excellent. Close to Prospect Park. Literally over 100 restaurants within an easy walk. Lots of shopping within an easy walk. 2 blocks from the R subway, so you can be anywhere in the city. 20 minute subway/walk to the beach at Coney Island. If you go in expecting a 3-star experience in a tiny room, you will be very satisfied, especially with the rate you are paying compared to nearby places. My litmus test for any accommodation: would I stay there again? YES!
8
Lawrence
Oct 9, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Nice accommodations if not a bit tight, good AC, great folks, no food, workout or any other ammenities
Nice accommodations if not a bit tight, good AC, great folks, no food, workout or any other ammenities
2
James
Sep 4, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The worst hotel I’ve ever stayed ever in my life. Nothing listed on the website is accurate. They actually had bagged breakfast as an option
The worst hotel I’ve ever stayed ever in my life. Nothing listed on the website is accurate. They actually had bagged breakfast as an option
4
Sheila
Sep 12, 2024
·
Stayed 3 nights
Apparently the hotel changed ownership the day after I booked (8/27). Was initially told 2 days prior to check in my reservation was cancelled. Hotel.com was able to correct that. The room had a king size bed (which was comfortable) but it literally took up 98% of the room. No ironing board/iron after there was a sign in the room stating to ask for one and when I did they said they didn’t have one. I stayed from Saturday to Tuesday , Monday I work remotely and even though the WiFi was great. They were doing renovations and had to come into my room to put a lock on the window. Which was a nuisance. It says serve breakfast but you get a bag of children’s snacks, water and a box juice. The kitchen area in the basement had mattresses and AC units stored there. so that was out of the question. The basement area had an ice machine with mold where employees would store cans of soda with no ice scoop. The shower had no enclosure so the water would just pool on the floor. Yeah I got what I paid for under $600….but I had fun at the Usher concert
Apparently the hotel changed ownership the day after I booked (8/27). Was initially told 2 days prior to check in my reservation was cancelled. Hotel.com was able to correct that. The room had a king size bed (which was comfortable) but it literally took up 98% of the room. No ironing board/iron after there was a sign in the room stating to ask for one and when I did they said they didn’t have one. I stayed from Saturday to Tuesday , Monday I work remotely and even though the WiFi was great. They were doing renovations and had to come into my room to put a lock on the window. Which was a nuisance. It says serve breakfast but you get a bag of children’s snacks, water and a box juice. The kitchen area in the basement had mattresses and AC units stored there. so that was out of the question. The basement area had an ice machine with mold where employees would store cans of soda with no ice scoop. The shower had no enclosure so the water would just pool on the floor. Yeah I got what I paid for under $600….but I had fun at the Usher concert
4
Alicia
Jun 3, 2025
·
Stayed 1 night
Just a hole in the wall, super small room. The double bed was thee worst. Entered the room & there was a 1/2 drunk cup of coffee on the desk. Took a shower & there was an opened pack of soap in there. Down the hall a man was screaming all night, never heard anyone go check on him/ tell him to stop. The room was barely big enough for 2 grown people. Breakfast was a lunch bag filled w/an apple, muffin, OJ, danish & yogurt. Def a 1 & done experience for me & my fiancé. I wouldn’t recommend this place in good conscious. It gave halfway house smh.
Just a hole in the wall, super small room. The double bed was thee worst. Entered the room & there was a 1/2 drunk cup of coffee on the desk. Took a shower & there was an opened pack of soap in there. Down the hall a man was screaming all night, never heard anyone go check on him/ tell him to stop. The room was barely big enough for 2 grown people. Breakfast was a lunch bag filled w/an apple, muffin, OJ, danish & yogurt. Def a 1 & done experience for me & my fiancé. I wouldn’t recommend this place in good conscious. It gave halfway house smh.
6
Paul
Dec 22, 2025
·
Stayed 2 nights
The room is very small but we were expecting that. The water took a long time to get warm/hot. The hotel is a bit noisy, but we brought earplugs. They advertised that they served breakfast but there was no breakfast offered. Luckily there are plenty of good food options nearby. It's a decent place to stay if you're not planning on spending any time at the hotel except to sleep.
The room is very small but we were expecting that. The water took a long time to get warm/hot. The hotel is a bit noisy, but we brought earplugs. They advertised that they served breakfast but there was no breakfast offered. Luckily there are plenty of good food options nearby. It's a decent place to stay if you're not planning on spending any time at the hotel except to sleep.
2
Claudia Adriana
Sep 23, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
The hotel was poor. My room was so incredibly small that I had to open my suitcase in the bathroom (paradoxically pretty large). There was a folded desk but there was litteraly no space to open it so it only served as night table. I could hardly walk in the room. Open the door, two steps leading to the bathroom and the rest of the space was the bed. there was a night lamp but since there was only one plug if i wanted to recharge my phone I had to unplug the lamp. Breakfast is served as a take-away bag with juice, bar, biscuits. The first day, no more bags left for us (!) The last day we wanted to leave the luggage and take it before heading to the airport. The desk said that until 1pm it was free, from 1pm to 4 pm they charged us 50$. On arrival my friend's credit card was charged double the amount agreed on reservation! They said it was an upgrade of the room. We didn't realize it immediately because they did not print any receipt. We checked on our accounts and discovered. When asked they said it was an upgrade. We complained and they finally refunded. Overall, not a choice I would do again. Location was convenintly close to subway.
The hotel was poor. My room was so incredibly small that I had to open my suitcase in the bathroom (paradoxically pretty large). There was a folded desk but there was litteraly no space to open it so it only served as night table. I could hardly walk in the room. Open the door, two steps leading to the bathroom and the rest of the space was the bed. there was a night lamp but since there was only one plug if i wanted to recharge my phone I had to unplug the lamp. Breakfast is served as a take-away bag with juice, bar, biscuits. The first day, no more bags left for us (!) The last day we wanted to leave the luggage and take it before heading to the airport. The desk said that until 1pm it was free, from 1pm to 4 pm they charged us 50$. On arrival my friend's credit card was charged double the amount agreed on reservation! They said it was an upgrade of the room. We didn't realize it immediately because they did not print any receipt. We checked on our accounts and discovered. When asked they said it was an upgrade. We complained and they finally refunded. Overall, not a choice I would do again. Location was convenintly close to subway.
10
Beth
Dec 20, 2024
·
Stayed 2 nights
Great stay, would stay there again. No frills, but clean and a great location for the right price
Great stay, would stay there again. No frills, but clean and a great location for the right price
6
Iura
Oct 1, 2024
·
Stayed 4 nights
O hotel é o que se espera pelo preço, e muito bem localizado, próximo a estação de metro. Os staffs amigáveis, oferecem uma bag de café da manhã e disponibilizam geladeira no quarto. Porém deveriam investir mais na limpeza.. cabelos nas toalhas, pó, sujeira no geral pelo quarto.
O hotel é o que se espera pelo preço, e muito bem localizado, próximo a estação de metro. Os staffs amigáveis, oferecem uma bag de café da manhã e disponibilizam geladeira no quarto. Porém deveriam investir mais na limpeza.. cabelos nas toalhas, pó, sujeira no geral pelo quarto.
8
Magnus
Sep 29, 2025
·
Stayed 4 nights
Fräscht och en välpackad frukostpåse
Fräscht och en välpackad frukostpåse
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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews
8
Mourad
Aug 13, 2026
·
Stayed 4 nights
The location is great, close to public transportation, shopping center and convenient for short stay. The room is too small, not enough space to move stuff around. It's Okay for a night or short stay but if you plan to stay longer you will have to look for a bigger room.
The location is great, close to public transportation, shopping center and convenient for short stay. The room is too small, not enough space to move stuff around. It's Okay for a night or short stay but if you plan to stay longer you will have to look for a bigger room.
8
Eric
Aug 12, 2026
·
Stayed 2 nights
Overall it is better but it could be best
Overall it is better but it could be best
10
Aaron
Aug 11, 2026
·
Stayed 4 nights
I can’t say enough good things about my stay at The Essence Hotel. From the moment I arrived, the experience has been comfortable, welcoming, and genuinely appreciated. The room was clean and comfortable, the staff were kind and accommodating, and after a particularly stressful few weeks, having a place that felt peaceful and dependable made a huge difference. Thank you to everyone at The Essence for making my stay such a positive experience. I’m truly grateful and would happily stay here again! ❤️
I can’t say enough good things about my stay at The Essence Hotel. From the moment I arrived, the experience has been comfortable, welcoming, and genuinely appreciated. The room was clean and comfortable, the staff were kind and accommodating, and after a particularly stressful few weeks, having a place that felt peaceful and dependable made a huge difference. Thank you to everyone at The Essence for making my stay such a positive experience. I’m truly grateful and would happily stay here again! ❤️
10
Jennifer
Aug 10, 2026
·
Stayed 1 night
Great time.
Great time.
8
Dave
Jul 24, 2026
·
Stayed 3 nights
I was happy to find a hotel on Brooklyn, in a more-than-decent area, for close to $100 per night. When I checked in, I soon found out why. The rooms are tiny. There is little room to move around. Just a bed and a few feet on the 3 sides around it. Bathroom was not large either. However, I reminded myself of the savings that I enjoyed. And I reminded myself that, being alone, all i wanted was somewhere safe to sleep and keep my stuff. Essence hotel did provide that. They also had 24/7 free coffee. You can walk to dozens of shops for food, etc. Also, this is a real neighborhood. I saw people going to work. It was summer, I saw kids going to camp! Fascinating! If you are alone, it is worth it!
I was happy to find a hotel on Brooklyn, in a more-than-decent area, for close to $100 per night. When I checked in, I soon found out why. The rooms are tiny. There is little room to move around. Just a bed and a few feet on the 3 sides around it. Bathroom was not large either. However, I reminded myself of the savings that I enjoyed. And I reminded myself that, being alone, all i wanted was somewhere safe to sleep and keep my stuff. Essence hotel did provide that. They also had 24/7 free coffee. You can walk to dozens of shops for food, etc. Also, this is a real neighborhood. I saw people going to work. It was summer, I saw kids going to camp! Fascinating! If you are alone, it is worth it!
FAQs about Essence hotel
Is parking available at the property?
Parking is available at the property, but specific details regarding the type (private/public, on-site/off-site, covered/uncovered) and cost are not provided. Reservations are not mentioned as required.
What type of breakfast is offered and what are the serving hours?
A complimentary on-the-go breakfast is served daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Does the property allow pets?
Pets are not allowed at the property. However, service animals are permitted and exempt from fees and restrictions.
What are the standard check-in and check-out times?
Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM and ends at 11:00 PM. Check-out time is at 12:00 PM. Early or late check-in/check-out availability is not specified.
Where is the property located in relation to key landmarks?
The property is located in Brooklyn, in the city center and near a metro station. Notable landmarks include Brooklyn Bridge and One World Trade Center, with natural beauty at Battery Park and Prospect Park. Lincoln Center and the American Museum of Natural History are also nearby.
What are the policies for guests staying with children?
Children 18 years old and younger can stay for free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
What are the policies regarding extra beds and cribs?
No cribs (infant beds) or rollaway/extra beds are available at the property.
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Instant AI responses are based on hotel information
Prices for upcoming dates
September 2026
Su | Mo | Tu | We | Th | Fr | Sa |
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October 2026
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Cheaper
Pricier
Average nightly price across deals, with taxes & fees.
Prices in USD for 2 guests, updated daily.
- 2026-09-15: 204.48654585639952USD
- 2026-09-16: 317.6468241316223USD
- 2026-09-17: 265.00370433471676USD
- 2026-09-18: 335.93427962997436USD
- 2026-09-19: 467.50572778167725USD
- 2026-09-20: 239.4581213318634USD
- 2026-09-21: 289.54457716430665USD
- 2026-09-22: 431.91785347564695USD
- 2026-09-23: 433.1508387904358USD
- 2026-09-24: 398.01024632095334USD
- 2026-09-25: 450.7765694979858USD
- 2026-09-26: 468.3497907557678USD
- 2026-09-27: 134.44594406253813USD
- 2026-09-28: 134.0242914188385USD
- 2026-09-29: 132.89802539348602USD
- 2026-09-30: 143.17800124965666USD
- 2026-10-01: 195.76751030799866USD
- 2026-10-02: 327.730259584198USD
- 2026-10-03: 327.730259584198USD
- 2026-10-04: 169.56869565353392USD
- 2026-10-05: 168.9779819642639USD
- 2026-10-06: 176.52794218925476USD
- 2026-10-07: 177.23276701835633USD
- 2026-10-08: 248.3179456398773USD
- 2026-10-09: 398.01024632095334USD
- 2026-10-10: 415.58170551666257USD
- 2026-10-11: 169.59294162765502USD
- 2026-10-12: 168.9779819642639USD
- 2026-10-13: 178.37692678405762USD
- 2026-10-14: 178.37692678405762USD
- 2026-10-15: 177.95100113983153USD
- 2026-10-16: 310.15763742752074USD
- 2026-10-17: 318.94451236572263USD
- 2026-10-18: 169.59294162765502USD
- 2026-10-19: 257.44791168426514USD
- 2026-10-20: 441.98965931854246USD
- 2026-10-21: 178.31224148536683USD
- 2026-10-22: 178.37692678405762USD
- 2026-10-23: 275.01937087997436USD
- 2026-10-24: 195.94664153831482USD
- 2026-10-25: 152.0214824319458USD
- 2026-10-26: 152.0214824319458USD
- 2026-10-27: 151.36393372825623USD
- 2026-10-28: 177.89207778411864USD
- 2026-10-29: 177.89207778411864USD
- 2026-10-30: 362.86908999160767USD
- 2026-10-31: 380.44114828842163USD
- 2026-11-01: 195.8693398751831USD
- 2026-11-02: 125.61088553695679USD
- 2026-11-03: 125.66021446468353USD
- 2026-11-04: 125.66021446468353USD
- 2026-11-05: 134.44594406253813USD
- 2026-11-06: 195.94664153831482USD
- 2026-11-07: 204.73119055458068USD
- 2026-11-08: 116.87622930828094USD
- 2026-11-09: 116.87622930828094USD
- 2026-11-10: 125.66021446468353USD
- 2026-11-11: 125.66021446468353USD
- 2026-11-12: 134.44594406253813USD
- 2026-11-13: 336.51540770156856USD
- 2026-11-14: 342.65689884994504USD
- 2026-11-15: 104.57515944435119USD
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
Check-in must be done by someone who is at least 21 years old.
- Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
- Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
- Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
- This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
- Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and window guards
- Children 18 years old and younger stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding.
Popular amenities
Parking
Free Wi-Fi
Non-Smoking Rooms
Housekeeping
Luggage Storage
Vending Machines
Services
Housekeeping
Luggage Storage
24-Hour Front Desk
Concierge Services
Parking
Parking
General
Non-Smoking Rooms
Vending Machines
Internet
Free Wi-Fi
Activities
Terrace