I found it interesting that you left out S/Manhattan and S/New York...I suppose you did it on purpose for obvious reasons.

I was facing a similar situation as you are now. Last year when I was planning how should I spent my FREE WEEKEND + some paid nights in NYC, I first went for the W NYC then switched to the Essex House. Now that I think back, I really think we should have chosen one of the W Hotels. The reason is because that I found Essex House is very luxurious, beautiful but a bit too heavy for my taste. If you have your spouses with you, Essex House would just fit the atmosphere in my opinion. But if you are all young guys, then I think Essex House doesn't really fit the style if what you're looking for is a great time in NYC (unless you are there for business).

W NYC is not recommended for the tiny rooms. W The Court is just as good as W Tuscany if not better even though the latter is a Cat. 5. The price you got for The Court is very, very attractive. Aside from the price factor, I think W Union Square would be the best choice for its location, its atmosphere and its service (attention to details).

The St.Regis and co. are not very appropriate for the same reasons as the Essex House.

Sheratons? Russell is the only candidate b/c the other two are...let's just say they are useful when you don't have other choices. But I would not recommend Russell on the basis that the Sheratons are more fit for business type of stay than casual. Its style is formal, business oriented and a more standard occidental style of service, nothing special or unique to make the stay 'outstanding'.