Second, CNN hired the regular Brooklyn's staff to serve the guests and they rose to the occasion, making a great impression on the guests. In addition to taking orders, serving food and mixing drinks, they engaged in conversation. offered suggestions and never lost their cool, even at the most hectic times. Almost every request was met with "of course" or similar positive response. They answered the same questions from guests over and over as if it was the first time.

The bar menu had a terrific fruit plate as well as hot barbecued shrimp and lighter fare. The dinner menu was varied and tempting, from grilled salmon to huge salads to a wonderful Angus burger with great fries. In addition to a variety of brews, they also had soda fountain items, from sundaes to milkshakes.

CNN picked up the tab for all the food and drink, so there were no checks and everyone was free to order as many times as they wanted. I got there at 3pm one day and stayed till 8pm, trying several items from both menus. But for not wanting to miss Bill Clinton's speech, I would have stayed longer.

True, the food may not be the same as Brooklyn's regular fare since special chefs were brought in to create the menu, but it wasn't complicated food and hopefully they now have the recipes.

At Brooklyn's, chefs from New York's swank Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern and Blue Smoke restaurants will saute and grill for CNN's talking heads and their guests.

....The CNN Grill will serve private b