Smith & Wollensky – New York
About Smith & Wollensky – New York
Located on the corner of 49th Street and Third Avenue, Smith & Wollensky is a definitive Midtown Manhattan institution that has defined the New York steakhouse experience since 1977. Housed in a distinctive green-and-white building, the restaurant is world-renowned for its dry-aged steaks, premium seafood, and an award-winning wine list. For private events, the venue offers a sophisticated departure from the bustling main dining room, transporting guests to a suite of elegantly appointed spaces on the second floor.
What makes this venue truly unique for private functions is the architecture of the upper level. Unlike many subterranean or windowless event spaces in Midtown, the rooms at Smith & Wollensky feature beautiful skylights that flood the wood-paneled interiors with natural light during the day and provide a view of the city sky by night. The atmosphere strikes a balance between professional prestige and old-school warmth, making it a favorite for high-stakes business lunches and celebratory family gatherings alike.
Best For
- Corporate dinners and board meetings in the intimate Derby Room for up to 20 guests
- Professional networking mixers or social cocktail hours in the skylit Club Room for 40 guests
- Full-floor buyout of the second level for large-scale corporate functions or holiday parties for up to 150 guests
- Milestone birthday celebrations or rehearsal dinners in the American Room for up to 60 seated guests
- Mid-sized business presentations and luncheons in the Brandy Room for up to 50 guests
What Guests Are Saying
Guests frequently comment on the timeless, professional atmosphere and the exceptional quality of the dry-aged steaks served during private luncheons.
Reviewers highlight the attentive service staff who specialize in managing the pacing of high-profile business dinners and corporate presentations.
Event hosts praise the unique skylights in the second-floor rooms for providing a bright, inviting ambiance that stands out from typical Midtown venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What private event spaces are available at Smith & Wollensky?▾
The venue features four distinct rooms on the second floor: the Derby, Club, Brandy, and American Rooms. For larger events, these spaces can be combined to occupy the entire second floor.
What is the maximum capacity for a private event?▾
The private rooms can accommodate small groups of 20 in the Derby Room, mid-sized groups of 35 to 60 in the individual skylit rooms, and up to 150 guests for a full second-floor standing reception.
Do the private rooms have natural light?▾
Yes, all private event spaces are located on the second floor and feature tasteful appointments and beautiful skylights, offering a bright and airy atmosphere uncommon in traditional steakhouses.
What type of cuisine is served during private functions?▾
The restaurant offers a classic steakhouse menu featuring USDA Prime steaks dry-aged on-site, fresh seafood, and signature side dishes, complemented by an extensive selection of wines.
Club Room
A tastefully appointed skylit room on the second floor.
American Room
A tastefully appointed skylit room on the second floor.
Brandy Room
A tastefully appointed skylit room on the second floor.
Derby Room
A tastefully appointed skylit room on the second floor.
Second Floor (Full)
The entire second floor, created by combining the skylit rooms for larger functions.