Great Choice for New York under 300!
Finally a very good boutique hotel in a great location that is warm, genuine, comfy and cool. The Renaissance 57 is the perfect budget boutique hotel that actually delivers style and quality without feeling like a rat in a trendy, cheaply executed cage. (FYI-- many boutique hotels in new York are truly terrible and claustrophobic. This one isn't.
The rooms are small. But they are nicely decoarated with great lighting, great beds, large tvs and bathrooms with just enough design to delight. 
The only bad thing in the room are the ac units under the window-- they are louder that anyone would like, but they can be turned off for sleeping. The rooms in no way are soundproof. If that is an issue, don't stay here.
The lobby staff and bellman are friendly and the service is top notch! Very genuine and very not New York. The concierge is however, friendly but not a real concierge. They try, but their recommendations are few and faulty.
The location can't be beat for those looking for a real New York experience, far from the Las Vegas lights of Times Square. Bloomingdales is around the corner, Park Ave businesses are steps away and the upper east side is at your doorstep.
If your budget needs to be watched, take a look at this property and I'm sure you'll be surprised.