Ive stayed at the Essex House twice in the last couple of years. The only reason I do is that I have highest tier Jumeriah status, and Jumeriah have, in my experience, been very good with upgrades etc, and also get three nights for 2 (through Amex). This is an okay hotel, which does have it charms (location next to central park, common areas are quite nice, and the breakfast buffet is also great), but most rooms are pretty average. The park facing rooms have a fantastic view of the park - but most rooms dont face the park and have really ugly views if anything. The hotel is historic, so most rooms, even the biggest suites, have shower over bath, which isn't to everyone's taste. Service can be patchy - there are no wine glasses in the room (even the biggest suite) and its a real struggle to get these delivered.