Before it was cool, my parents got married at a restaurant. This was back in 1981, so I guess you could say they were ahead of their time (or as I like to say, trendsetters).
At the time weddings took on a more 'traditional' approach - bigger, with dancing and in a large rental hall. While I adore a big wedding, I have always loved that my parents chose to do their own thing, and am really glad to see that restaurants are a norm now for celebrating weddings.
If you're looking to throw a wedding reception (or engagement party or rehearsal dinner) at a restaurant in New York City, below are some of my favorite spots to do just that. Whether you are choosing to do the whole shabang in the restaurant (ceremony included) or just a big after party following an elopement, there's a bit of something for everyone below!
390 Social (Park Slope)
390 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Top three things I love about 390 Social:
- Funky, fun vibes
- Paella!!!
- Incredibly kind owners
It is safe to say I am hopelessly in love with 390 Social! As a lifetime Park Sloper, I can attest firsthand that is has been an amazing contribution to the neighborhood.
Owned by Mana Hospitality (and managed by husband and wife team Dana and Ronny, aka the nicest people you'll ever meet), 390 Social is a two level bar and restaurant with a speakeasy vibe. They boast a wide menu of yummy bites from oysters, charcuterie and sliders to their famous paellas. They are known for their unique cocktails, which are both delicious and beautiful and the space also features a greenery wall perfect for photo opps!
In addition, check out Chela, their nearby sister restaurant.
Anassa Taverna (Midtown East)
200 E 60th St, New York, NY
Top three things I love about Anassa Taverna:
- Yummy food
- Large, chic room with poster windows
- Convenient location near the subway
I think we can all agree that you can't go wrong with Greek food for your wedding or event!
Located In Midtown East 60s, Anassa Taverna is a beautiful location for your reception as it features two levels in a gorgeous room with poster windows and curtains, allowing for as much light as you'd like. The upstairs space is intimate but not tight, and has a beautiful flow to the room. The staffing team here are so lovely and accommodating on the food is spot on.
They also have two other locations in Astoria and Downtown Manhattan.
Mayfield (Crown Heights)
688 Franklin Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Top three things I love about Mayfield:
- Huge space for dining and parties
- Shredded Kale Salad (seriously, incredible!)
- Backyard Patio
With a huge dining room and backyard patio, Mayfield's rustic chill vibes and their comforting American dishes make you feel like you're at home. At a recent wedding I captured there, I loved that there were on a number of different size tables (including high tops!) precisely set up on either side of the restaurant so everyone could move about freely and interact with each other comfortably.
The patio outside was perfectly sized for a few private moments for my couple to relax and take a few candid photos, soaking in their newlywed status while their guests enjoyed the party inside.
Vinegar Hill House (Vinegar Hill)
72 Hudson Ave, Brooklyn, NY
Top three things I love about Vinegar Hill House:
- Courtyard & Private House for Parties
- Historic Background
- Delicious, elevated comfort food
Vinegar Hill House is one of the most unique restaurants I've ever been to in Brooklyn. Walking distance from Dumbo and nestled in historic area of Vinegar Hill, it's a cozy spot nestled on a cobblestone street that features a front house for the restaurant and a private house for space rentals.
The houses are separated by a beautiful courtyard garden with salvaged decor which is perfect for portraits in warm weather. The private house includes two floors - in the past, my couples have done cocktail hour in the lower bar and their ceremony and dinner on the top floor.
In addition, the menu is absolutely delicious and features Seasonal New American cooking.
Aurora (Williamsburg)
70 Grand St, Brooklyn, NY
Top three things I love about Aurora:
- Indoor/Outdoor space convertible to different layouts
- Family-style dining
- Steps from Domino Park
Picturing a fun Italian vibe for your wedding? Aurora is an intimate Italian restaurant with a flexible setup to host a ceremony, dinner and dancing. Split between indoor and a semi-covered outdoor rooms, I've seen multiple arrangements of ceremonies and aisles which can quickly be turned over to accommodate seating for guests to eat and a dance floor. There is also space for a DJ!
Possibly most importantly, they have the most incredible food, which can be served family style. They have gluten free options too which, truthfully, I still dream about to this day!
