My 86-year old grandmother is coming with our family to New York City for Easter Sunday mass. We wanted to eat at a nice restaurant for brunch on the Upper West Side. A major concern is to find a place that will be quiet for her so she can hear everyone and not be overwhelmed by other noise/crowds. Any suggestions? There will be 8 of us dining, so even a place with a private room could be an option.

That's a tough one. There are lots of excellent brunch places on the UWS, but they're all so popular and crowded. In this vein, I'd stay away from Sarabeth's, Popover, and EJ's. Less popular but still excellent are Luzia's and Cafe Frida. You could probably make a reseration at either given the size of your party.

Is Cafe des Artistes quiet? It is an old-fashioned, beautiful place. I think it would be nice for a family Easter. Maybe someone can remember if it's quiet.

ttt

Quiet? On the UWS? On Easter Sunday? weelllll, try Docks - at Bway and 89th St has a pretty good brunch - if you go around 1130 or 12 noon, it is quiet and can be nice (I've gone w/ my 80-something in laws and they've enjoyed it.) The brunch @ Cafe des Artistes is gracious, delicious and it will be crowded - ask for a quiet section, they'll be happy to accomodate you if they can - But really, the UWS is sooo limited - and Easter Sunday Brunch - maybe expand your location a little bit and you might find what you need. Good luck.

I had Easter Brunch last year at Norma's, the restaurant in the Parker Meridien Hotel ( 11 W. 57th St) which is known for its breakfast menu. I remember it being fairly quiet.

http://www.parkermeridien.com/norma-s.htm

http://newyork.citysearch.com/profile/7143833/

Try Avenue on Columbus between 85th and 86th. You might want to ask for a table in the back. I love their brunch!

I second the suggestion for Norma's at Le Parker Meridien. Wonderful food and fairly quiet. Make a reservation though.

One response indicated "the UWS is sooo limited". He can't be talking about the Upper West Side in New York City. There are at least 150 restaurants (not counting take out and pizza places) from 96th to 72nd on Broadway, Amsterdam and Columbus. At least half and possibly more offer brunch.

Yes, Norma's at the Parker Meridien is a great idea. The breakfast is gorgeous. It's a very modern looking room, not traditional.