Best Bathrooms In Midtown Manhattan

Tis the season to make the annual trek into midtown Manhattan to do some holiday shopping and see the Rockefeller Christmas tree.  Unfortunately, New York is not renowned for its public bathroom selection.  Few people are brave enough to venture into the public toilets in the Times Square subway station or Grand Central, and even fewer live to tell about it.  Fortunately, there are some wonderful restroom options available to visitors who may have had one too many hot chocolates while perusing the windows along Fifth Avenue:

Saks Fifth Avenue, 49^th and 5^th- The Gentlemens Lounge on the 7^th Floor offers a clean and meticulous pit stop from the crowds across the street at Rockefeller Center.  Bathroom attendants ensure that the rest room is always in top condition and it is conveniently located just to the right as you walk out of the elevator.  A womens lounge is also available to the left.

Uniqlo Global Flagship Store, 53^rd and 5^th- Brand new store featuring brand new sparkling clean bathrooms right off of the main escalator whisking shoppers up to the third floor.  Be sure to grab a super cheap cashmere sweater on your way out, or take advantage of the free tailoring on some new jeans.

Bloomingdales, 59^th and 3^rd- Very large restrooms on the 6^th floor to the left as your exit the elevators.  The 6^th floor also houses the Bloomingdales holiday department with gorgeous and unique Christmas ornaments for your tree.  Perhaps grab lunch at Le Train Bleu- an old fashioned dining car themed restaurant at the far end of the floor.  And if shopping is starting to stress you out, they serve wine.

The Plaza Hotel, 59^th and 5^th- tucked away on the lower level near the food halls and not easy to find if you dont know where to look.  Best to use the Food Hall entrance located on 59^th street and then treat yourself to a scone.  Just dont drink too much water.

The Mandarin Oriental, 60^th and Broadway in the Time Warner Center- you will need to enter through their lobby on 60^th street and take the elevator up to the 34^th floor but it is well worth the wait if you can hold it.  The Bathrooms are to the right as you enter the front desk area and feature Molton Brown products in an exquisite retreat from the Columbus Circle mobs.  Afterwards, sneak a peek at the incredible view overlooking Central Park.