"Everything about Prélude feels luxe, from the cocktail experience set in swanky private rooms at a renovated old house to the small menu of canapés that includes a $125 order of six chicken nuggets (with caviar). You’re not here for value or a full stomach. You’re here to drink expensive cocktails in a beautiful space, find out what pricey ground poultry tastes like, and pray that someone in your party offers to cover the bill. Does it all feel a little performative? Of course. But the food and drinks are executed flawlessly, and the whole experience makes you feel like you’re part of a very private club that uses the word “summer” as a verb. " - nicolai mccrary, matthew jacobs