Tavern on the Green is a legendary restaurant in Central Park, and would be a wonderful place even if it served macaroni and cheese from a box.
The "building" is six dining rooms connected by angled halls with mirrors and stained glass; outside, in summer, the garden is an airy mix of flowers, white wrought iron, and Chinese lanterns in the large trees right in the midst of the dining area. Inside are pastel colors and crystal chandeliers...
Not bad for a place that started out in 1870 as a home for sheep. Tavern on the Green has been a restaurant since 1934, but its present lustre comes from a major reno in the 70's.
The picture above shows the pastel-and-crystal dining room, dotted with birthday balloons.
Meal presentation is as pretty as the place. Just one caution, about Tavern on the Green: reserve in advance during busy times.
photo © Teresa Plowright