Have you read
this thread? It was a lively discussion of the differences between regional service and Acela service.
Acela FC has improved since that thread (so I understand). I just don't know if FC is worth about $250. Can you score a coupon from Coupon Connection? Personally, I would go Acela Biz class tops and bring my own food (if I was paying out of my own pocket). The nice thing is that NYC is the start of that leg of service, so if you get in the right line then you can get a good seat on the train.