DRs Ben and Noel - thank you for your comments on the neighborhood of W. 54th St. at 9th Ave.  Any other New Yorkers care to chime in?
DR Elmore?
DR Jose?
DR FJL?
It's a nice neighborhood.  It's a bit "empty" right now due to a couple of empty store fronts on the south-east side of 9th Ave.  However, El Centro is right on the corner there - great Mexican food.  -I believe DR Cillaliz and I ate there.  Plus, you're right down the street from DR Jason's former workplace - MTI.  There are some other good, basic diners in the area too.
You'd be a few blocks from the 50th and 59th Street/Columbus Circle subway stops too.  Plus, there's a mini-farmer's market that sets up shop up on the corner or 9th and 57th.  And since you're not on 8th Ave., and a few blocks from Times Square, it's also quieter at night.