Top Five: Brunch Spots for After the Wedding

Claudia Hanlin, The Wedding Library

• Published Summer 2007

1 New Leaf Café: “After your formal wedding, this restaurant in Fort Tryon Park (at the Cloisters) is the perfect casual retreat. With the park’s view of the Hudson, it’s a great way to get a little of the outdoors into your cosmopolitan wedding. It’s a beautiful stone building that’s fully restored and was designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted, who also designed Central Park.”

2 Pastis: “There’s no better place to nurse a hangover than this French bistro in the meatpacking district. Hipsters and parents alike will love the food, patina, and the Bloody Marys.”

3 Rainbow Room: “This gem of a space also has a gem of a view. Old-school and old-world, the Rainbow Room is surprisingly cozy and offers Cipriani service, food, and great Bellinis.”

4 Top of the Rock: “An amazing outdoor brunch or a view from on top of the world: you can wow your guests two ways at this newly opened venue. They’re definitely going to be the talk of the town soon.”

5 Madison Room at the Palace: “With food from either Gilt or the Palace banquet kitchen, this gorgeous landmarked room overlooks both Madison Avenue and the Palace courtyard. It’s like a secret, amazing jewel box that’s so perfect and pristine, and you’d never know it was there.”