Today, some guests specifically request to stay in that room.

"We have 189 rooms and last night 170 guests requested little companions," he said.

But guests must request to stay late in a room.

"But we are in a service industry," he said, "and if the time ever comes when our guests request it, we would provide it."

Some guests request a room overlooking the ice-skating rink.

The table was, as his guest had obviously requested, a discreet corner banquette.

Most impressive was the balcony, which guests can request during check-in.

In this manner a guest could request service or a wake-up call without leaving the room.

Each of the 189 rooms has a CD player, and guests can request a pet goldfish.

Only one guest requested a kosher meal, however.