Stay away from the Hilton Gateway in downtown Newark. It's farther from the airport, the shuttle only runs once per hour, and the hotel and staff leave much to be desired. The only time this hotel makes sense is if you're going into the city, as it is right across Neark railway station, where you can catch trains for midtown or the World Trade Center.

The Hilton EWR is a much better choice for an airport hotel. You'll never have to wait for a shuttle, and the hotel itself is very decent. I haven't been there in a while, so I don't remember about comp b'fast, but I don't remember ever experiencing any major problem there.