"I had a chance to experience La Grenouille not too long ago as part of a media and press event in their upstairs carriage house room. Actually, this room was the actual carriage house owned by the Vanderbilt family many years ago. After that I was told it was converted into an artist 's studio. It also is an upstairs wine cellar. Either way, it 's a fabulous looking spot for a private event or catered affair.<br/ <br/ As soon as you walk in you are greeted by men in suits and tie. Everyone here has a very classy, albeit stuffy look and air to them. Would it hurt to crack a few smiles now and then? I was led up the stairway to another suited gentleman who opened the door to the event. The room is terrific and over a few levels with a loft section. Lot 's of sunlight, classy decor, but with a touch of the old carriage house architecture and trimmings. Surrounded by shelves and cases of wine along the walls. The bartenders were all dressed in white suits and were actually open and friendly, but very professional. My wine glass was always filled, and it was a joy to experience top quality wine from very expensive bottles that I normally would not even consider to splurge on. Glad it was a free event!<br/ <br/ We were also treated to many trays of h 'orderves throughout the evening. Wonderfully delicious crab cake balls, salmon on pumpernickel triangles, amouche bouche, and more. If that was an example of the food offered here during normal dining all I can say is WOW! Opulence I has it!<br/ <br/ The whole night there were a few of the men in the darker suits overseeing us and making sure all went smoothly. All of the staff here are very professional. It 's a very elegant and beautiful place for a high class dinner. Men are required to wear a jacket here, and I saw a row of them hanging on the wall for use in case you walk in without one. It 's very 'Can you pass the Grey Poupon ' here. Still, I had the feeling all night that the men in suits were looking at us in disdain and were tolerating our group until the event ended. I must say though that the service and attention we received was top notch. It 's not a restaurant that I would normally come to as it is very expensive here, but I am glad I was able to experience a touch of it."
