Blue Chip
These best-of-the-best luxury venues are what New York is known for (and the price tags reflect it).

The Plaza Hotel
If you can squeeze in your wedding or event here (by booking years in advance, of course) then this is the place to have it— timeless and elegant.
The Plaza Hotel, Fifth Avenue (at Central Park South); 212-930-0731.

The Four Seasons Restaurant
With expertly executed service and a delicious menu to choose from, The Four Seasons Restaurant is another name-dropper that's bound to be reserved through the next Millennium (or two). Miracles do happen though—so call for any last-minute cancellations.
The Four Seasons Restaurant, 99 East 52nd Street (between Park and Lexington avenues); 212-754-9468.

The New York Public Library
Carrie Bradshaw may have blown up this unconventional spot's novel appeal, but it's still classic, beautiful, and (let's get real) insanely amazing.
The New York Public Library, 455 Fifth Avenue (at 39th Street); 212-549-0506.

Photos (clockwise): Four Seasons, Public Library, Four Seasons, Plaza, Courtesy of Van Wyck