We'd been having trouble finding a restaurant location that met our specific needs - we were looking for a private space, but only for a 14-person party. We were also slightly budget-conscious, wanted a not-too-adventurous menu, an open bar, and something near Central Park.

The Parlor at The Leopard ticked all the boxes.

We had a 3-course meal, plus bread and a chef's selection of hors d'oeuvres before appetizers and coffee and biscotti after dessert. All the food was outstanding - a great blend of Italian and American fare. I can personally highly recommend the tiramisu, but everything was fantastic from the salads to the meat and pasta dishes to all the desserts.

The restaurant was located just a few blocks south of our wedding reception at 72nd and Central Park West, so everyone had time to explore the park a little while we did our pictures in Times Square.

The price was very reasonable; excellent, really, for the area we were looking. We did a LOT of research, and The Leopard came in significantly below (with better options) than anywhere within about a 20-block radius.

Peter Klein, the Catering Director, was great to deal with - it took us a while to lock in our guest list and narrow down our timing, plus our wedding was just as they were switching from their summer to their fall menu, but Peter was nothing but helpful the entire time. Once we arrived at the restaurant, the exceptional service continued throughout the night; all of our guests were ready to invite the wait staff back to the hotel to keep the party going!

I can't say enough good things about the Leopard - it was a great end to a great day. If you're looking for a place on the Upper West Side, this would be my highest recommendation. (You may also run into someone famous; Liam Neeson walked right past us on the street!)