Le Méridien New Orleans

Starwood spent $29 million transforming this towering Poydras Street property from its W brand to the more conservative but similarly luxurious Méridien brand. The plum location has the hotel just minutes from the Quarter, the CBD and the casino, a setting that the new wave of guests will enjoy. New Orleans geography and topography informs the visual design touches, and the 432 rooms and suites are the height of neutral-toned modernity. Dining options include the casual breakfast plates of LMNO (who offer a free 'eye-opener' shot) or the New American lunch and dinner menus of Longitude 90.