http://www.jumeirahessexhouse.com/

If you live uptown though and can't get away, I'd imagine you'd want to feel as if you were - and therefore would head downtown.

The Inn at Irving Place is really plush. Just had tea there last week. Like a gracious home, and I believe, the key to gramercy park - a luxury in itself!

I'm really curious why ImitationofChrist cares.

Seriously - there are (at least) two ways to get this question answered - visit some number of hotels, or ask someone else who might know. Why is it so awful that bgans chose a different method from what you would have chosen?

One could even argue that this method is more comprehensive, as it might allow bgans to come across a hotel that she wasn't already familiar with. Maybe that's not necessary for them to have a good time, but it's certainly not harmful to anyone here.

Today has been a testy day around here. It's not even the full moon for another week!

I'm not sure about the Inn at Irving Place. I've heard they have lots of wedding showers etc. and it can get loud. Not sure rooms and staying there is as charming as going there for tea. Reviews on tripadvisor not good.
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Rev..._New_York.html

Yes, you are correct that the MO is the current standard bearer for over-the-top luxury. Their spa is fabulous and the rooms are gorgeous, not to mention the service. The St.Regis is really nice and I particularly love their tea service on Saturday/Sunday afternoons, but it's a bit stuffy and a little outdated decor-wise (nevertheless you'd still have a wonderful experience there). Personally, I love the modern hotels: Hudson, Gansevoort, 60 Thompson & the Mercer. Totally ditch the downtown Ritz Carlton...ugh. Highly overrated, the decor isn't that nice and there is NOTHING to do down there, plus there's a lot of ongoing construction down there as well.