Using Priceline, I got a room at the W Hotel on Lexington for $100. (I put in three stars and midtown east or west) I have read the rants and raves about this hotel and are worried. I can live with small rooms, but dirty rooms and rude service are a different matter. There were references in the rants and raves to renovations. Is anyone familiar with this hotel? How is its location? Is it close to any subway stations? Help!

I have not stayed but toured this hotel in May. YOU WILL BE SATISFIED. I recommend this hotel to people coming to NYC. The lobby is kind of Safari/futuristic if that give you and idea, very chique. The rooms are small but I don't think you can get away from that even in the best hotels in this city. $100 is an absolute steal. Can't believe you did not get glorious reviews at rants rave section. Location is idea remember to take a walk down to City bakery 18 and 5th(?). Head pastry chef is nationally recognized as a leading pastry chef.

I would also book a night for chow at Gotham bar and grill only a short walk. Patria's is also wonderful and closest to your hotel BOOK YOUR RESTAURANT NOW AND SAVE YOUR WORRY.Food is what we do best here. Not sure what part of the country you are coming from but Maryland Crab cakes ship up fresh crab cakes to Maryland crab Cakes restaurant every day. This is also only a short walk from hotel.

I think Sarah has her W hotels mixed up. The one walking distance to Patria and Gotham is Union Sq W on 17th st and Union Sq. So. The one on 541 lexington is around 48th st. Those are fine restaurants but not a quick walk (but walkable if you don't mind a 1.5+ mile stroll). There are many other high caliber places in that price range. For good inexpensive restautants, wander the E. Village (3rd Av and East between Houston and 14th Sts), there are tons.

little mistake, it 17th & Park Ave So. (not Union sq. so)

Ooopps Marj is right sorry. But Marjorie I would not recommend just wandering if she wants a memorable meal you can also happen into a lot of crap downtown. I lived on 12th and 3rd for 4 years and moved just last May. Maryland Crab is only $22 for the crab cake dinner. Also lived in Hawaii for 4 years where people would mail order Maryland crab cakes this is why it comes to mind if the person is not from the area. Patria's has a tasting menu for $60 if memory serves,,,different memory from W hotel let's hope. Gotham also has a $20 lunch special spread. You are in NYC Laura I would have at least one amazing meal out and you will not get that just anywhere. Just hop a cab 5 bucks the city is all yours for a cab ride.

I also like Balthazar's downtown, I had the Steak Au poivre for $32. It kind of knocked my socks off and I am not a red meat lover. The atmosphere is also very Parisian.

Living and working in the city I never cook. I have been disappointed when I just walk into places out of the blue.

Nearest subway station is at 51st and Lexington. Local stop for the #6 train.
Grand Central Station is at 42nd and Lexington. This is an express stop for the #4 and #5 train. If you want to ride on the Staten Island Ferry to view the Statue of Liberty and the changed skyline take the #4 or#5 to Bowling Green station.