Superlative Spaces

Over-the-top
Opera House

Photo by Amanda Ambrose

Put your own production on the Playbill while you and your groom take center stage at one of New England’s most magnificent theaters. The Opera House, built in 1928 and reopened in 2004 after $39 million in renovations, is available for receptions. That includes the entire theater, stately lobby, mezzanine promenade, Walnut Room, and the stage. It’s got all the ingredients of one of the most lavish wedding receptions imaginable: regal beaux arts–style architecture, 200 twinkling chandeliers, gold-leaf ornamentation, and original carrera marble columns. If you’re looking to impress, this site will more than suffice. Just make sure you line up an evening of entertainment that can hold its own against the ghosts of performances past.

Info: 539 Washington St., Boston, 617-259-3415, livenation.com.
Capacity: Up to 300 per level; 500 on stage; 1,800 in the entire theater
Fee: $3,500 for the first level; $2,000 for each additional level
Catering: Exclusive caterers only
If it’s booked, try: The Boston Public Library, 700 Boylston St., Boston, 617- 536-5400, bpl.org.

Epicure’s choice
Oleana

Photo by Heath Robbins Photography

As Boston foodies well know, Oleana chef Ana Sortun creates exotic eastern Mediterranean–influenced fare like nobody else. When planning a nuptial repast, couples sit down with Sortun (who was named best chef in the Northeast by the James Beard Foundation in 2005) to customize their menu. Most opt for a family-style meal, which is social, festive, and—most importantly—allows guests to sample many mezze (small dishes). Recent wedding menus have included Sicilian-style swordfish skewers with tomato, oregano, olives, and currants; and grape leaves with figs and fried lemon. In the summer, the restaurant’s garden offers a magical setting; in cooler months, the crackling fireplace creates a cozy atmosphere. Brides can customize either setting with flowers and music, and personalized menus are printed in-house for guests to take home.

Info: 134 Hampshire St., Cambridge, 617-661-0505, oleanarestaurant.com.
Capacity: 45–70
Fee: $1,000 for up to 45 people; $1,500 for up to 7o people; price per head ranges from $50 to $75
Catering: In-house
Special note: Daytime functions only.
If it’s booked, try: State Room, 60 State St., Boston, 617-854-5000, longwoodevents.com.