Full disclosure: I am WeWork All Access and this location is my primary spot. Whatever you think about what I say here, I've got months of experience to back it up.
Excellent things about this spot: its mad convenient location (read: MTA, midtown east), its staff (community managers, housekeeping), and the security staff in the lobby (thorough, kind, always on point).
What isn't excellent: the conduct by specific WeWork members who are in the kitchen (calling out those who refuse to put their mugs and tumblers in the trays, despite polite request that be what's done) and the Quiet space and the shared/open space.
I get that everyone - due to masks, earbuds, city life - talks loudly. And in a shared space where seating is limited, in a space that is literally where no music, no phone calls, and no meetings are to occur - to blast your voice and to do what you've been told isn't to be done is flat wrong. And thoughtless.
That staff needs to be told when someone conducts a meeting or a call in the Quiet space (which, I might add, is a significant rarity in NYC WeWorks and several locations do not have them) is a policy I understand, and ruefully accept. That they should have to is ridiculous.
Why? Last time I checked, WeWork members are grown people who know how to read. I was born in NYC and I've lived here nearly all of my grown up life. I recognize where things have changed, as resident population has grown, as wealth as scattered, as industry power has shifted, as mayoral and city department staff turn a blind eye to too many things (homelessness, housing quality, timing of the traffic lights), and certainly how people choose to act because they can.
And I am more than happy to call out where people act wrong. One of the wrong actions is people bringing their entitlement and obliviousness to shared workspaces. You want to bark and do calls, get a Phone Booth or book an...
Read moreTo this All-Access user, one of the best locations in Manhattan. Pros: ample community spaces - more than a lot of locations, with practical touches like big tables wired with power cords. Plenty of phone booths, with lighting that isn’t exactly flattering, but does not make you look like a serial killer either. Calm decor. WeWork didn’t lean too hard into a theme on this one. Yes it’s quirky and “WeWork” but there are no neon pizza squirrels. Location is has great access to a lot of subway lines/food options, and who doesn’t have a better day after walking through Grand Central? Cons: neighborhood is practical, but not a lot of fun. Also there is a pinball machine (YES!) but the left flipper is...
Read moreI’ve tried to like this location since it’s closer to my office and I’ve been booking almost every day. But the man at the front desk with the glasses is the absolute worst. He’s accused my GUESTS of not booking a room or being authorized to be there. I’ve told him several times if they identify as my guest then don’t go inquiring if they’re paying or not-I’m the one who’s paying. Literally an idiot. He can do all that but not give proper directions to where rooms are located. Go to the 575 Lexington location instead ( that location has a free barista and front desk...
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