Veranda Hosts Vogue100 For an Intimate Breakfast 

The beautiful breakfast tablescape with florals designed by Raúl Avila. 

On a rainy Tuesday morning, Veranda’s bright and beautiful terrace welcomed Vogue100 members and Vogue editors for a glorious summer breakfast. While the newly opened restaurant is a downtown hotspot for dinner, the institution’s highly acclaimed chef, George Mendes, opened his doors extra early for Vogue and served an exclusive selection of modern morning dishes with a Portuguese twist. 

Guests were greeted with freshly squeezed green juices and silky smooth strawberry smoothies alongside trays of tropical and exotic fruit. Breakfast wouldn’t be complete without a buttery chocolate croissant (or two!), which were strategically sprinkled across the table for maximum temptation. Of course, the gorgeous pink peonies centerpieces that complemented the open-air atmosphere were designed by Raúl Avila. 

Before guests took their seats, Anna Wintour mingled with founding members and newcomers eager to reunite with the Vogue100 family in New York post-pandemic. A host of Vogue editors including Chioma Nnadi, Mark Guducci, Lilah Ramzi, Maddy Fass, and Mai Morsch joined in on the festivities. 

As the breakfast took place only a few days following the couture fall 2021 collection debuts and the fifth annual Forces of Fashion conference, there was much to discuss at the intimate gathering. Hot topics included Balenciaga’s return to the couture circuit after 53 years, favorite pieces from Hamish Bowles’ exquisite archive tour with Marc Jacobs, and the undeniable synergy between the Grammy-winning artist Billie Eilish and Gucci’s creative director Alessandro Michelle. 

For the main event, Mendes offered a trio of sweet and savory dishes. Naturally, Wintour’s breakfast of choice, avocado toast, was the winner across the table but the multi-grain pancakes dressed with strawberry compote and spring vegetable omelet were equally delicious. “I’m inspired by cooking with what’s in season, especially with what is available from our farmers market and the large bounty of seafood and meat that our vendors procure for us,” Mendes explained. “The menu is ever-changing, inspired by my travels and creative processes.”