Russo’s On The Bay: Premier Queens Wedding Venue

2 1/2 is my actual rating. According to information published by NYC.gov, businesses in Queens are typically aware of large, planned parades weeks or even months in advance, even if official street-closure notifications are issued closer to the event date. With that understanding, I am seeking an explanation as to why the parade scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025—occurring during our event’s setup and guest arrival time—was never disclosed during any of the conversations I had with management prior to my grandmother’s 90th birthday celebration. This lack of communication created a very poor first impression of an event space that is otherwise regarded as highly sought after. While the celebration itself honored a remarkable woman of faith and was ultimately a lovely occasion, the logistical issues were both frustrating and disappointing. Due to the parade, valet service was unavailable, forcing me to park five blocks away and walk to the venue—something that should have been communicated well in advance. Additionally, upon entering the space, I was surprised to find that the pastry service did not align with what had been discussed. I was expecting tiered trays of assorted pastries at the center of each table; instead, each table received a single plate with one of each pastry, intended to serve ten guests. This felt insufficient and inconsistent with the agreed-upon plan. The cocktail buffet offered some tasty options; however, the overall setup resembled a continental breakfast at a budget hotel rather than the elevated presentation one would expect from a professional event venue. While I understand that some guests may be impressed by the venue’s location, the overall experience fell short of expectations. Unfortunately, based on these issues, this is not a venue I would recommend.

Our daughter just had her wedding Sunday October 12 at Russo’s. This was the first time we’ve been at an event there… let me say Russo’s met and exceeded our expectations. Everyone was so nice and pleasant they really treat like family. And the food is like dinning at a fire star restaurant best steak I’ve had in a long time.. The food during the cocktail hour was amazing everything was fresh and delicious. Many of our guest thanked us and said this was the best wedding they’ve ever attended and two of them were over 70 years old. On behalf of the Stewart and Murrell families thank you for making Samuel and Courtney Murrell’s wedding a day they’ll never forget.

So I went to the venue as a photographer hired by my boss for his wife’s retirement party, I’ve been to many venues, have been in the room with the biggest names in Manhattan. So would believe how surprised I was that this was most organized I’d ever seen an event! The staff here are truly one of a kind, a lot of them seem to actually enjoy their job. As someone who formerly was a server and bartender I must say I was thoroughly impressed by Ms. Kelly the maitre d and her servers especially Kaylee. Both photographed below. Everything was organized, GORGEOUS, and absolutely perfect! If I had my own hospitality company I’d snatch them up so fast and offer them more money. My expectations were low because of the past but they took it to the moon and back. The men on the team were wonderful and cool as well but the women kept the tempo and that’s what’s truly important. Everything ran smooth. And for Kelly to be a boss I think she actually has a team that likes and respects her. That’s huge! Treat your staff right and they’ll treat the company and those in charge right! Bravo to the entire staff, I will definitely be recommending this venue to others. It’s pricey but WORTH IT! And the catering didn’t taste like crap. Plentiful and delicious. Thank you for hosting us! Also Kelly thank you for making sure I alright and taken care of. Rarely do others think to even grab the photographer and DJ some water! Hope you stayed hydrated as well. Thank you all again!

Russo's on the Bay is one of the most iconic place in NYC. Every time i come here, i spend at. least one dinner here. It's great for events like marriage or Award Dinners. The food is great and the steak was absolutely ASTONISHING. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

We had a dinner for 100 people on a short notice. The resturant was very accommodating the service was outstanding. Food delicious… Thankyou… Christine who worked with making rhis happen thankyou as well your staff was outstanding.