I would say the best place that has luxury would be the Amigo, which is about 220 E on the weekend but is close to everything. Is that expensive really? I loved the Hyatt Barsey which is now a Warwick hotel and is opulent in its furnishings, but is way down Avenue Louise. I felt safe walking from the tram/bus to the hotel, but it wasn't fun for sight seeing. The Conrad is much closer, would have smoking rooms and is near all the boutiques.
If you don't mind the downmarket Le Meridien, its quite safe and the executive rooms are quite lovely.
I would factor in proximity to sights v. cost and avoidance of the tram/subway system at night in my decision to stay in town v. the Manos, Conrad or anything way out in the EU district. The amigo at 50 euros a night more is definitely worth it.
lala