It was potentially a difficult situation- living in MA and planning a party for 50 guests in NY near the city; particularly since we are still concerned about COVID. I found this place with an online search including 'outdoor dining' and called a cousin to...go take a look. She called me from the venue, told me that her MIL has dined there frequently and that the food was good and the space was nice, so I left a deposit.
The grooms family as well as my own have some vegetarians, vegans, and people with gluten issues (not Celiac) so the menu needed to be flexible. Personally, I am a person who prefers to cook most of the time and am fairly picky about food preparation. I do not go to chain restaurants unless necessary, so having an unknown place where there is an owner is preferable. I knew ahead of time Brunch service would be taking place in the front of the restaurant; it did not impact at all on my event as I chose a buffet (non-brunch items) over a plated meal, as I was told might be more challenging with staffing. The up-front honesty from the manager was deeply appreciated.
The event began at 11 and we arrived at 10:30 to get some centerpieces in place. We had a back room with doors that fully opened to an enclosed patio space and I'd requested the tables be set outside if weather permitted. The day was warm and clear, and the patio was beautifully landscaped and well shaded, so even elderly relatives were quite comfortable. There was a bathroom immediately to the left inside and guests had exclusive use of those restrooms. Staff was setting up and making sure the patio was spotless, with an eye to detail.
As the guests were arriving, they came out with mimosas, bloody Marys, and screwdrivers as was determined in the planning and began passing some hors devours. People were having great time and loved the restaurant. The buffet was great, people loved the food and if I needed anything additional- like an undressed salad, it was easily provided. We had chicken, pasta, , and salmon served with veggies and potatoes. I requested olive oil over butter for preparation to account for some guest sensitivities. The chafing dishes were filled sparingly and frequently to both avoid food wasted and keep things very fresh out of the oven, everyone had more than enough to eat except me- I was too busy catching up with relatives I had not seen in several years!!!! But everyone kept telling me how delicious me everything was! I did have chicken, salad and veggies and was very happy! The waiters made sure I had drinks and coffee! We were permitted to bring in cake and chose fruit as dessert from the menu as well. There is a bakery across the street that is quite good, but be warned- it took me more time and effort to order a few cakes, which even though were chosen from a standard list of what was in the case, were considered 'special order' because they were requested in a larger size, than it did for me to arrange an entire meal at Crabtree's restaurant! Even though a 20% tip was included, I left some extra for the outstanding service!More