Best DX lens for portrait ?

while we're beyond the budget, i hear the noct-nikkor 58mm f/1.2 makes some amazing portraits on DX.

anyways, i've used the 17-55 for portraits (mostly environmental) on DX. it certainly works well, but it is a bit short on the long end. if you don't mind getting in close, it's not a problem. i feel a little bit of perspective distortion gives things a bit of life.

of OP's choices i would go for the 85mm.