Beginning with the blood-red awning and lamps adorning the classic façade, it’s clear there’s a little mischief at the heart of this sophisticated lady. Originally opened in 1928, the hotel that’s hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to Michael Jackson underwent an extensive re-do in the mid-2000s, during which master designer Phillipe Starck brought in a playful, contemporary flair and a focus on art. (You can even get a guided tour of the hotel’s private collection.) Standouts include a 99-seat, state-of-the-art movie theater, an art gallery and library, and a Matsuhisa outpost from Chef Nobu, which serves up Peruvian-Japanese cuisine.