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Weddings

About this vendor

Frank Russo Jr.
Frank Russo Jr.
Owner

38 years in business

We speak English, Greek, Italian, Polish and Spanish

Large team (21+ members)

Russo’s On The Bay, located in Howard Beach, New York, offers couples an elegant and versatile wedding venue. Founded in 1987, the building has gone through numerous renovations and expansions, keeping this location trendy and contemporary. Additionally, the owner and his family’s many years in business serve as a testament to their passion, experience, and knowledge of the wedding industry.

Facilities and Capacity

Numerous rooms are available throughout this stellar venue. The Encore offers couples a classic, sophisticated ballroom with distinctive circular chandeliers and gold accents along the walls. Up to 575 guests can enjoy this space with you while celebrating the love and commitment between you and your partner. This space is likewise flexible and can be sectioned off for slightly smaller ensembles or to function as a ceremony space. Inside the Paragon, up to 250 loved ones can join you in the festivities. This ballroom continues the contemporary flair of the Encore and can likewise be divided into sections for different sized gatherings. For rehearsal dinners or to function as a private lounge, the Rose Lounge offers cultivation in an intimate setting. This space can accommodate up to 65 individuals. The Promenade, an additional event space, provides couples an airy reception area with waterfront vistas.

Services Offered

At Russo’s On The Bay, their enthusiastic staff can take care of and arrange a variety of details. They have suggestions of florists, photographers, and DJs for you to choose from, helping you plan your wedding with ease. At your wedding, relax in the dressing room which can be attended to by a member of staff. Your guests can be greeted by the doormen as they arrive and be guided through to the reception by a gracious host or hostess. Throughout the evening, fine wine can be regularly topped up on all the tables, keeping guests satisfied. With these services and more it is sure to be an exceptional nuptial event.

Cuisine

From cocktail hour to the sweet treats that finish off the evening, the talented chefs at Russo’s On The Bay can cook and bake an array of sumptuous dishes. Begin the reception with stations of hors d’oeuvres and then enjoy a plated meal with appetizers and main courses. Finish with a selection of desserts and warm beverages in addition to a gorgeously designed multi-tiered cake. No matter the stage of the meal, the food here is artistically plated for a feeling of refinement.

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FAQ

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

No

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

Yes

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Bridal Suite
Chairs
China
Clean Up
Event Planning
Flatware
Glassware
Lighting/Sound
Linens
Parking
Set Up
Tables

Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?

Cake Cutting
Dessert
Server(s)
Wedding Cake

Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?

Bartender(s)
Champagne Toast
House Beer
House Liquor
House Wine
Open Bar
Premium Liquor
Signature Drink
Specialty Beer
Specialty Wine

What is the minimum number of guests required to book your venue?

50

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

5

Describe your venue:

Ballroom
Banquet Hall
Garden
Park
Restaurant
Rooftop
Waterfront

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Covered Outdoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party
Rehearsal Dinner

What event services do you offer?

Accommodations
Bar Services
Catering Services
Clean Up
Event Planner
Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms
Liability Insurance
Outside Vendors
Wifi

What catering services do you offer?

Buffet
Cocktail Reception
Dessert
Family Style
French Service
Hors d'oeuvres
Plated
Server(s)
Stations
Tastings

What bar services do you provide?

Bartender(s)
Cash Bar
Champagne Toast
House Beer
House Liquor
House Wine
Liquor License
Open Bar
Premium Liquor
Signature Drink
Specialty Beer
Specialty Wine

What event items are available?

Aisle Runners
Audio Equipment
Chairs
Chair Covers
Decor
Drapery
Furniture
Lighting
Tables

What food and beverage items are available?

Barware
China
Chocolate Fountain
Flatware
Glassware
Linens

What transportation and access is available?

Parking
Valet
Wheelchair Access

What months are included in your peak season?

April
May
June

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
March

Still have questions?

Reach out about anything you didn't see answered here—no question is too small!

Wedding couple

Reviews of Russo's On The Bay

This AI-generated summary gives you a snapshot of the overall ratings and feedback from the reviews this vendor has received.

Review summary

Powered by AI

Russo’s On The Bay is praised by reviewers as a truly magical and unforgettable wedding venue. The stunning waterfront location in Howard Beach, elegant indoor spaces, impeccable service from staff like Joe Vacca, attentive maître d’, and outstanding food including a legendary cocktail hour, are highlighted. The seamless planning process under Jennifer's guidance and the overall combination of elegance, top-notch service, and exceptional food make Russo’s highly recommended for creating a perfect wedding day.

Review summary

Powered by AI
This AI-generated summary gives you a snapshot of the overall ratings and feedback from the reviews this vendor has received.

Russo’s On The Bay is praised by reviewers as a truly magical and unforgettable wedding venue. The stunning waterfront location in Howard Beach, elegant indoor spaces, impeccable service from staff like Joe Vacca, attentive maître d’, and outstanding food including a legendary cocktail hour, are highlighted. The seamless planning process under Jennifer's guidance and the overall combination of elegance, top-notch service, and exceptional food make Russo’s highly recommended for creating a perfect wedding day.

Weddingwire
4.8/5 88 reviews
Google
4.7/5 1768 reviews
Michael
Michael Sent on 05/25/2025
5 out of 5 rating

05/23/25 Wedding

We recently had our wedding at Russo’s On The Bay, and it was truly the most magical and unforgettable day of our lives. From the moment we toured the venue, we knew we were in good hands — and Russo’s exceeded every expectation we had.

First and foremost, the venue itself is stunning. Located right on the water in Howard Beach, it offers an elegant and romantic setting with gorgeous views, especially at sunset. The indoor spaces are just as impressive — from the luxurious bridal suite to the crystal chandeliers and beautifully maintained ballrooms, everything radiates class and sophistication.

But what really sets Russo’s apart is the service. The staff was impeccable. Joe Vacca was relentless on making sure us and our guests had a great time. Our maître d’ and bridal attendant were incredibly attentive, making sure everything ran smoothly and that we felt relaxed and pampered the entire day. Every detail was executed perfectly — from the timing of the ceremony to the flow of the reception.

The food was outstanding. The cocktail hour was nothing short of legendary. Our guests are still raving about the variety, quality, and sheer abundance of options, The dinner was equally delicious and beautifully plated. Russo’s doesn’t just serve a meal — they create an experience.

Planning with Russo’s was also seamless. Jennifer was professional, responsive, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. We felt supported and heard from day one, and that made all the difference.

If you're looking for a venue that combines elegance, world-class service, and amazing food, Russo’s On The Bay is it. They helped make our wedding day absolutely perfect, and we’re so grateful for the memories they helped us create.

Highly, highly recommended!
N
Nella Sent on 11/06/2024
5 out of 5 rating

Amazing!

I cannot say enough about what a wonderful job they did! Our wedding was perfect down to every detail. Ever person couldn’t say enough about the food and the service. We were fortunate to have good weather so had our ceremony in the outdoor garden, then our reception in the paragon room. Just incredible!
O
Olivia Sent on 02/03/2023
5 out of 5 rating

Phenomenal

Russos service is phenomenal.

Priscilla is the one who won us over. Her professionalism and ability to connect with us made us book with her.

Mr. Russo personally thanks you and makes every guest feel special.

Joe make it happen. made it happen for me.

Christina was my Maitre D and she was amazing !!!!!!

Book Russos you will not regret it. the food and drinks are amazing and the service is phenomenal!!!! No regrets no complaints. PHENOMENAL Service
We're all about trust. Our community relies on honest reviews to help you make those big decisions with ease.

Awards

88
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2017 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2016 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2015 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2014 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2013 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2012 Winner
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Team

Frank Russo Jr.
Frank Russo Jr.
Owner

Professional Network & Endorsements

Riccardo Studios Riccardo Studios Wedding Photographers

Excellence re-defined! For 25 years + never an off day. Always perfection! Always the best!

Metamorphosis New York Metamorphosis New York Wedding Hair & Makeup

Russo's On the Bay is truly a great venue with incredible food and atmosphere. They are a pleasure to work with. You can rest assured your wedding day will be amazing when you choose to use Russo's On the Bay as your caterer. Dayna Pap Founder Metamorphosis New York www.metanewyork.com

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Russo's On The Bay is an amazing venue for your wedding! The food, staff and decor is rich and inviting. No detail is too little and customer service goes above and totally beyond all the rest! By far, the one of the elite!

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Russo's On The Bay frequently asked questions

Russo's On The Bay includes the following items and services for wedding events in its starting site fee:
  • Bridal Suite
  • Chairs
  • China
  • Clean Up
  • Event Planning
  • Flatware
  • Glassware
  • Lighting/Sound
  • Linens
  • Parking
  • Set Up
  • Tables
Russo's On The Bay includes the following items and services in its wedding catering costs:
  • Cake Cutting
  • Dessert
  • Server(s)
  • Wedding Cake
The bar service starting price at Russo's On The Bay includes:
  • Bartender(s)
  • Champagne Toast
  • House Beer
  • House Liquor
  • House Wine
  • Open Bar
  • Premium Liquor
  • Signature Drink
  • Specialty Beer
  • Specialty Wine
The space offered by Russo's On The Bay for wedding events is known for:
  • Ballroom
  • Banquet Hall
  • Garden
  • Park
  • Restaurant
  • Rooftop
  • Waterfront
Russo's On The Bay offers the following indoor/outdoor options for weddings:
  • Indoor
  • Covered Outdoor
  • Uncovered Outdoor
Russo's On The Bay offers the following types of wedding events:
  • Ceremony
  • Reception
  • Bridal Shower
  • Engagement Party
  • Rehearsal Dinner
Russo's On The Bay offers the following services for wedding events:
  • Accommodations
  • Bar Services
  • Catering Services
  • Clean Up
  • Event Planner
  • Event Rentals
  • Get Ready Rooms
  • Liability Insurance
  • Outside Vendors
  • Wifi
Russo's On The Bay offers the following furniture and decor items for weddings:
  • Aisle Runners
  • Audio Equipment
  • Chairs
  • Chair Covers
  • Decor
  • Drapery
  • Furniture
  • Lighting
  • Tables
Russo's On The Bay is recommended by 96% of couples who have used their services. Their overall rating is 4.8 out of 5 with the following breakdown: 4.8 in quality of service, 4.8 in average response time, 4.8 in flexibility, 4.8 in professionalism and 4.8 in value.
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