AisleDash

I've only ever entered The Plaza Hotel to use the rest rooms. But I'll never forget my first time. Climbing the stairs taking in the ornate black canopy, past tea-takers at the Palm Court, making a bee-line beneath the painting of Eloise and down a plushy concourse corridor. And all without being accused of trespassing. If using the rest room could be thrilling as all that, I could but dream of engraving "request the honor of your presence, three o'clock in the afternoon, The Plaza Hotel, New York City, New York" on an invitation.

The Plaza closed its doors in 2004 for massive renovations, which threatened to alter that iconic corner of Manhattan forever. Preservationists stepped in, however, to maintain the Plaza's status as a flagship hotel, and to restore and embrace the elegance and prestige of a Plaza event.

From the looks of the floor plan the Terrace Room is no longer. Though "restored to it's legendary opulence", the Grand Ballroom reclaims its territory as THE place to host a party in New York ... and potentially, the universe. I especially like the Bridal Suite, on the same floor as the Ballroom. A room created exclusively for the use of bridal preparations. Originally scheduled to reopen in the fall of 2007, the hotel is now slated to be open by March 1, 2008.

So, yes, I'll take my tea, and then my wedding, at the Plaza, if you please. Then perhaps I'll take my breakfast at a little shop down the street I like to call ... Tiffany.