Suggestions for Your
Rehearsal Dinner and Brunch

Venues to satisfy every budget and style.

• By Corrie Pikul
• Published Summer 2006

THE TRADITIONALISTS

BLOWOUT
For brides who wanted to wed at the St. Regis Hotel (2 E. 55th St.; 212-753-4500) but couldn't squeeze in (the largest room fits 240 for dinner and dancing), a rehearsal dinner at this 1904 Beaux-Arts landmark is an ideal compromise. Start with cocktails in the mahogany-paneled library, then dine on Rich Brown's simple Continental food (from $200 per person) in the Versailles ballroom.
Brunch: Sip your first cup of coffee as husband and wife overlooking the park at the Terrace Room at Tavern on the Green (Central Park W. at 67th St.; 212-873-3200).

HIGH
Behind the two-ton brick door of the Secret Wine Cellar at '21' Club (21 W. 52nd St.; 212-582-1400), you and up to 22 guests can enjoy a seven-course tasting menu ($485 per person; $175 in the other nine event rooms) sitting amid ceiling-high stacks of vintage wines.
Brunch: Savor fry-ups in the Lounge or Wine Room at Public (210 Elizabeth St.; 212-343-7011).

MEDIUM
Bayard's (1 Hanover Sq.; 212-514-9454), located in a restored centuries-old mansion, seems like a private home. Nine beautifully appointed private rooms can accommodate six to 200 for dinner (from $65 per person). Chef Eberhard Müller (Lutèce) offers a menu dominated by classics like prime aged New York strip steak, roasted rack of lamb, and Dover sole meunière.
Brunch: Omelettes and scones in the Garden or Skylight rooms of Sarabeth's Central Park South (40 Central Park S.; 212-826-5959) are sure to delight.

LOW
For classic style that fits your budget, try The Mermaid Inn (96 Second Ave.; 212-674-5870). A menu that spotlights fresh coastal fare like corn-and-crab chowder, fried oysters, and, of course, the lobster sandwich will have your guests reminiscing about vacations in Maine and the Hamptons. Gather in the outdoor garden during warm months or in the lantern-lit interior during winter squalls and nor'easters.
Brunch: Serve Mark's Madison Avenue chopped salad at Fred's at Barneys New York (660 Madison Ave.; 212-826-8900). online.