On a night characterized by a dark and stormy atmosphere, the Tom Wolfe Literary Prizes celebrated emerging talents in both fiction and nonfiction. This annual event occurred in New York City, where the aftermath of a powerful nor’easter lingered, signaling a shift from the vibrant hues of summer to the more subdued tones of autumn. Outside the esteemed Waverly Inn on Bank Street, the trees began their seasonal transformation.
Inside the venue, a diverse group of New York’s elite gathered, representing a range of professions and backgrounds. Despite their differences, they shared a common thread of being cultured and interesting. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Sarah Jessica Parker, engaged in animated discussion with Amor Towles, the acclaimed author of A Gentleman in Moscow. Nearby, Seth Meyers conversed with literary editor Aimée Bell, known for her role in promoting several bestselling titles, including those by Keith McNally.
Inside the Waverly Inn: A hub of creativity
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as award recipients Meghan Daum, recognized for The Catastrophe Hour, and Vincenzo Latronico, honored for Perfection, exchanged smiles and handshakes amid the clinking of glasses and murmurs of appreciation. Waris Ahluwalia, a celebrated tea entrepreneur and muse to filmmaker Wes Anderson, mingled with the crowd, adding to the vibrant ambiance.
A night hosted by Graydon Carter
The event was masterfully orchestrated by Graydon Carter, the legendary editor and proprietor of The Waverly Inn. His digital platform, Air Mail, co-hosted the evening alongside Montblanc, underscoring his dedication to literary culture. Carter remarked, “Journalism is not dead—it’s being revived,” while introducing the Tom Wolfe Literary Prizes, which grant a generous $10,000 honorarium to each winner.
Since its transformation in 2006, The Waverly Inn has evolved from a modest tavern into a fashionable dining destination, often viewed as a private club for New York’s elite. Securing a reservation here has become an intricate process, often requiring contact with the elusive maître d’, Fritz, known for his discretion. Dining at The Waverly Inn means rubbing shoulders with New York’s luminaries, as the establishment has gained a reputation as the place to be seen.
The legacy of Manhattan’s dining scene
Over the decades, various Manhattan establishments have captured the spirit of their times, granting entry not solely based on wealth but on the conversations each patron brings to the table. In the 1970s, Elaine’s was the favored spot where celebrities and writers mingled over unremarkable Italian dishes, famously immortalized in Billy Joel’s song “Big Shot.” The 1980s saw figures like Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat frequenting The Odeon, where a young Jay McInerney sought to feature its neon sign on his book cover.
The changing landscape of social dining
As the 2020s unfold, New York’s dining landscape is evolving. While The Waverly Inn remains a beacon of social engagement, the city has experienced a rise in exclusive private clubs, where affluent patrons enjoy meals among their peers. This shift signifies a departure from the traditional melting pot of diverse backgrounds and experiences. Additionally, the emergence of social media influencers has transformed many dining venues into platforms for content creation, altering the essence of the dining experience.
However, on this particular evening, the enchanting allure of the past reemerged at The Waverly Inn. Carter reflected, “It feels like old-time New York to me,” encapsulating the nostalgic atmosphere enveloping the crowd.
For attendees like Seth Meyers, the night was a dream realized. He reminisced about poring over glossy magazine spreads as a child, admiring gatherings similar to this one that showcased not just celebrities but also gifted writers. “I will never take for granted how special it is to be in a room like this one,” he stated, sharing a sentiment echoed by many.
As the dinner concluded, guests spilled into the back garden, paving the way for a younger generation of editors, writers, and artists, many of whom might soon become household names. Despite the storm outside, the atmosphere remained lively as they engaged in spirited conversation and shared laughter beneath the night sky.
Inside the venue, a diverse group of New York’s elite gathered, representing a range of professions and backgrounds. Despite their differences, they shared a common thread of being cultured and interesting. Among the attendees were notable figures such as Sarah Jessica Parker, engaged in animated discussion with Amor Towles, the acclaimed author of A Gentleman in Moscow. Nearby, Seth Meyers conversed with literary editor Aimée Bell, known for her role in promoting several bestselling titles, including those by Keith McNally.0
