Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Planner Amy Kule's Favorite Venues for Events

Amy Kule is executive producer of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The iconic holiday celebration, now in its 87th year, is watched live by three million people in New York and more than 50 million people at home nationwide.

For a private dinner
I think Craft is one of the most sophisticated restaurants in New York. It’s ­fantastic for celebrations, both ­personal and professional.

For my favorite meal
Gramercy Tavern has a level of sophistication that ­really can’t be matched. It is a special gem in New York, and it’s been that way for a while.

To de-stress after the holidays
Home! I will stock up at the Stiles Farmers Market. 

To get inspired
Restaurant Marc Forgione is probably one of my top five favorite restaurants in New York. Marc is part of the Macy’s Culinary Council, and his restaurant is homey, it’s welcoming, and the food is just off the charts.
 
For a 100-percent-reliable meal at any time
I’ve spent more than one Thanksgiving at Balthazar after the parade. It’s like home, but louder.

To eat at the bar
Red Cat has been a place that I’ve been going to forever. It’s comfortable by yourself or with a friend.

To entertain out-of-towners
The Lion has a storied history, and John DeLucie has brought it back to what it once was. It’s great to tell guests that Barbra Streisand performed for the first time in that space. You do feel like you’re in a special place while you’re there.

For a non-holiday parade
Jim Bridger Days in Bridger, Montana, is a celebration of the founder of the town each July. It’s as close to the heart as you could ­possibly be. This parade, which everyone turns out for, goes up one side of the street, turns around, and goes down the other side. It’s one of the most beautiful homespun pieces of Americana you could find.

To bring clients for lunch
We have so many business meetings that take place in and around Macy’s, and there is a dearth of fine dining in the area. Stella 34 Trattoria is in Macy’s, and it has become a go-to place in the neighborhood.

For a secluded getaway
I head to Esperanza, an Auberge Resort, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. For a spa ­getaway I go to the Red Mountain Resort for some R&R.