Breakfast at Tiffany’s

Breakfast at Tiffany’s isn’t just a movie; it’s a thing. You really can have breakfast at Tiffany’s. Which I did on a recent layover in Manhattan. 

On the top floor of Tiffany’s flagship store on 5th Avenue, you’ll find The Blue Box Cafe. 

What would it feel like to sit inside one of those legendary blue boxes? Pricey. But special. 

I felt special the moment I walked in the store, greeted by an army of well-dressed associates, all smiling and emanating a general air of warmth. It was disarming and, I’m sure, by design. Walking into Tiffany’s could be an intimidating experience. But I found the sharply dressed staff very approachable. However, I didn’t need to approach them. A member of the army was stationed every six feet.  

After the doorman opened the door, a floor man offered directions to the cafe, and another staff member called my elevator; I thought to myself, “Tiffany should train flight attendants.”  

However, the graciousness must be balanced with economics. I mean, they do have an army to feed. Therfore, on account of these economic concerns, the cafe (reservations highly recommended) will not seat a party of one at a table. So, the hostess escorted me to the bar and sat me next to the other lone ladies. 

The bartender was, of course, very gracious. The menu was, of course, very expensive. 

I ordered Holly’s Favorites. But as you may remember, Holly was very skinny. 

This was what I got for $44 after tax and tip. At those prices, I really should have slipped that Tiffany butter knife into my bag. 

But no regrets. If breakfast wasn’t worth it, the experience was. Just walking through the store is like visiting a museum or art gallery.

Besides the gorgeous jewelry and home furnishings, many pieces of original art are hanging on the walls, such as this painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat.

They also exhibit former window displays throughout the store, like this Valentine’s Day window from 2014.

But the piece de resistance is… 

The iconic dress Audrey Hepburn wore in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

It didn’t photograph well because it’s displayed behind a glass wall. I suppose you’ll have to go see it for yourself. Breakfast optional.