JW Marriott Essex House New York

The location is great, right on Central Park South. We chose it because of its proximity to Lincoln Center for a night at the opera. Our room was fair but not what I was hoping for given the high price and the JW ranking. The bed was comfy, but the furniture was scuffed. We got only one bar of soap, and the toiletries were bulk, not individual. I had requested extra pillows upon arrival, but we had to call housekeeping for those. It was clean enough. Next time, I would choose just a regular Marriott or even a Courtyard, because the room did not live up to the high price and JW name.

We spent a week here as a family, during that time was Halloween and our little girls 6th birthday and a number of the staff - particularly Jasmine, Mona and King. The front of house team went above and beyond to make our little girls birthday special, with cake, breakfast, balloons and even a hand written card from the staff. Every time we came in or out the hotel they greeted us like family, which was even more appreciated the day of the marathon, after 26.2 miles. This hotel should be proud to have some of its staff and they made it a special trip.

Stay was nothing short of amazing. The location is amazing, the staff is wonderful, the lounge is great, and best of all, I was upgraded to a Central Park Deluxe Suite as a Platinum Elite! Probably the best room I've ever had at any property or certainly at the top of the list. My wife and I were also celebrating our anniversary and they sent up a lovely chocolate cake for us to share. Very thankful for it all! Additionally, the destination fee amenities were actually useful. I cannot recommend this place enough!

Stay was spoiled by surprise charge to credit card after check out. Extremely difficult to find email address for hotel to get an explanation. Eventually found an email address. Was informed it was $60 for minibar. Had never even tried to find minibar and certainly did not take a $60 bottle. Colleague staying at same time had $150 taken- so I was lucky. Had to go to card company to get refund. Stayed in Essex house 5 times- this was my last time.

Great location and historic art deco building. Concierge lounge was excellent although alcohol was not free. Breakfast in the lounge was a full buffet with a nice range of selections. The dinner appetizers were robust as well. Was upgraded to a mini suite. Could almost see Central Park from the room by careening at the windows. Room was tastefully decorated but could have used a little more imagination. Very disappointed in the opaque destination fee. Couldn’t find anything about it on the website and I wasn’t informed of what it covered at check in. Found out that I missed out on a food and beverage credit. They could have done a better job of informing guests what it covers. Or better yet, just do away with it. Guess we’ll have to wait for truth in pricing laws to take effect before that happens.