Yes, Chef

Draco stayed over again the night before they were to go to America. 

It had become a bit of a routine for them for the past two weeks, Draco packing some clothes into his work bag and any toiletries he may need and following Harry home or vice versa to Draco’s flat Camden; a lovely townhome with white walls and black marble countertops with not only art, but pictures of Draco, Pansy, and Blaise adorning the walls. Harry would also be lying if he didn't admit to enjoying a nice cup of tea of Draco’s dark green Chesterfield that certainly reminded him of something akin to Slytherin green. 

But for now, Harry was waking up in his own bedroom, the room filled with a soft grey light as the dreary London sky poured through the half closed curtains. December came in full force, bringing with it the biting cold and grey skies that only offered hints of sunshine when it could break through. Canis, Lupus, Et Cervum was becoming busier during their service hours as the Christmas holiday was just two weeks away and patrons who couldn’t manage to get a reservation began to flock to the bar to warm up with a beverage after their shopping in Diagon. Harry had to practically beg one of his more knowledgeable staff in the kitchen to solely focus on any tapas that came through from the bar due to this increase as the holidays tend to be one of the more busier times in the service industry. 

Harry gently let his fingers stroke through Draco’s hair, Draco’s head tucked under his chin and buried in the crook of his neck, still breathing softly as his arms tightened around Harry’s waist. 

He couldn’t remember a time where he was more content. 

And truly, he had Blaise to thank for asking Draco to come back to England because Harry never would have anticipated the quick spiral of needing to know Draco that overcame him when he joined their team. 

His friends certainly anticipated it however because according to them, it’s always been something about Draco that caught his eye. 

But who could blame them? Harry couldn’t get the picture out of his head of Draco decorating Canis, Lupus, Et Cervum two weeks ago with fancy charms that he said he learned from his mother. He had conjured a Christmas tree with soft, twinkling orbs of light and light blue and white baubles to stand proudly near the host stand. He had placed silver and white garland along the bar and charmed the ceiling to fall with fake snow that never reached the tables, disappearing mid fall. He softened the lights further and hung stars and more baubles on the ceiling with green garland that the same snow reflected off of during its descent. Wreaths and with lights and smaller copies of the Christmas tree in the foyer were placed strategically around the dining room and he had charmed their linens to have different depictions of the holiday from gifts to a soft winter skyline. 

Ever the charms master, but one that was skilled and brought plenty of attention to Canis, Lupus, Et Cervum from the change. 

Harry didn’t think any other year attracted this many patrons, but after the article that The Prophet had published in regards to the decor change, they’ve been like a doxy infestation. 

Draco and Anthony even went as far to create a holiday cocktail menu specifically for the bar, only one available for table service, which has turned the quiet dining atmosphere into one of joy and chatter rather than something stoic. It has been fantastic for business and it all came from a muggle Christmas pop up bar that they had visited just before December right around the corner from Draco’s flat. 

“Harry?” Draco mumbled, voice raspy with sleep as he began to shift a bit in Harry’s grasp. 

“Yes, love?” He whispered, pulling his head back to see Draco blearily looking up at him. 

“What’s the time? Do we have to get ready?” 

He cast a silent tempus, the time showing it was just after eleven. “I’d say so. Our portkey leaves for the New York City portkey office at two. Gives us a couple of hours to get ready and double check our bags before going to the Ministry. I was thinking of maybe taking us to Freddy’s for a good American diner breakfast before we head to Warwick so you can try that vineyard. Our reservation at The Inn is at five in Monticello and then I’ve picked a couple of spots near the hotel that Blaise so graciously let me know the name of back in New York City for a night cap. I thought you’d like to see how America does their Christmas pop ups since you did such a wonderful job decorating Canis, Lupus, Et Cervum.”

“Good thing Pansy has also become proficient in sobering charms. We’ll probably need one after dinner. Can we shop a bit after breakfast? I’d like to maybe find some gifts and I heard that New York City has some of the best stores in the world. Get to the vineyard about two so we can take our time?” Draco suggestion, untangling himself from Harry and stretching his long limbs with a groan. 

“I’m sure Pansy and Blaise wouldn’t object to some shopping,” he mused, rolling over so he could place his glasses on his face. The world sharpened into clearer focus as he sat up, stretching himself. 

“We’re Pureblooded Slytherins who grew up throwing money around in France. Of course they aren’t going to object to shopping,” Draco snorted as he got out of the bed. They began to get ready, taking showers and checking their bags to ensure that they had what they needed. Harry had headed to the kitchen once he was sure everything he needed was packed along and dressed in a wool maroon jumper with a white button down underneath and a nice pair of black jeans. He set about making a coffee for himself and putting the kettle on the hob to heat water for Draco’s tea. 

Draco came down the stairs with their bags, their coats draped over his arm as he strode into the kitchen, setting their belongings in a chair. Harry passed him his earl grey tea in a chipped mug as Draco sat at the table, Harry sitting next to him with his coffee as Draco propped open a book from his bag and Harry sorted through his mail, both sitting in a comfortable silence. There were offers for interviews, food critics wanting to review his food for a discount, and a letter from a vineyard in France. 

“Draco? Do you mind reading this for me? It's in French and my translation charm can be a little shoddy,” Harry asked, sliding the letter across the table. Draco placed a bookmark in his book before closing it, pulling the letter towards himself. 

Draco hummed, “It's asking if they can send a couple of bottles of wine for us to sample. I can take care of this.” 

“That's lovely, thank you. You know, it's bloody hot you know French,” he said, leaning back in his chair. 

“Tu as de la chance d’être attirant parce que tu es un idiot,” Draco said, tucking his book back into his bag. 

“Did you just call me an idiot in French?” 

“I also said you're lucky that you're attractive.” 

“Lucky?” 

“You act as if I've never insulted you before.” 

“You're impossible, but I guess I'll forgive you since you said it in French.”

“Sweet Salazar, let’s go before I decide to start insulting you more.”

“Insulting me more?” 

“Do you want to find out?” 

Harry fell silent, standing and sending their mugs to the sink. He shrugged on his long black double breasted overcoat and fastened the silver buttons before shrinking his bag and tucking it into his pocket. 

“Guess not, let's go to New York City, darling,” Draco smirked. 

↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹↹

“You know, we should do some shopping while we're here,” Pansy said as they left the MACUSA portkey office, pushing through the crowd to make it to the street. 

“Told you,” Draco smirked at Harry, intertwining their hands together.

“Must be a seer,” Harry teased. “We'll go shopping for a bit after breakfast. We're going to this diner called Freddy’s over near Battery Park and then we’ll catch a cab to take us to fifth avenue. Plenty of shops for us to browse. Wizarding Manhattan is a little hectic so we'll focus on the muggle side of things today. Tomorrow I want to take you to a little spot in Brooklyn for breakfast that was near my flat while living here and then we can perhaps check out Wizarding Manhattan since our Portkey doesn't leave until two so we'll be back in London at seven,” he suggested. Before anyone could reply, Harry pushed open the large glass double doors of the MACUSA Headquarters and stepped out onto the white granite steps, freezing cold air whipping around them as snow fell from the sky.

The streets were filled with people, talking on mobiles and carrying briefcases as they attempted to make their morning meetings. The roads were littered with cars that honked at each other, trying to get through the traffic so they could get to their destination. There were skyscrapers surrounding them and the sidewalks were covered with a grey slush where the walkway hadn't been shoveled yet, becoming trampled under the hundreds of pedestrians that were trying to make their way to their jobs. 

“This is mental,” Blaise breathed, looking a bit overwhelmed. 

“I think it's kind of a chaotic beauty. It'll calm once everyone gets to their offices for the day and when you see the city at night… you'll love it,” Harry reassured, leading them down the steps and around a corner, hiding them behind a large thick column near the base of the stairs. “Just hold on, I'm going to appariate us to the alley behind Freddy's,” he said as the trio latched onto either of his arms. Harry closed his eyes and reopened them, catching Draco as he stumbled a bit, the faint sound of police sirens sounding in the distance. Harry led them around the front, pulling open the brown door and ushering them in. 

The host was at the front, chewing gum and blowing bubbles as the interior was bustling and filled with shouting. “Table for four, please,” Harry asked, hoping that the wait wouldn’t be too terribly long. 

“Wait will be about ten minutes,” she said, beginning to write on a lined sheet. “Name?” She asked, looking up at them. 

“Harry Potter is fine,” he said, moving the others off to the side. 

“She seemed lovely,” Pansy said with narrowed eyes, chin angled upwards just a bit. 

“Things are a bit different here, Pans,” Harry chided softly, hand finding Draco’s and giving it a soft squeeze. 

They waited patiently, Harry excusing himself after five minutes to brave the American North Eastern chill to smoke a cigarette only to be pulled back inside not three minutes later by Blaise who informed him their table was ready. The small half booth half table, Harry taking one of the chairs with Blaise while Pansy and Draco slid into the teal coloured vinyl booth. The dark wooden table was a bit wobbly, a sugar caddy, a bottle of ketchup, a bottle of Tabasco, salt and pepper, and a creamer caddy sitting at the head of the table. 

“They had to demolish and remodel this place after 9/11. It's been around since nineteen fifty and honestly, it's rather good. I suggest the French toast or the pancakes,” Harry said, opening his laminated menu. Before anyone could respond, an older woman approached the table, pulling out four straws and a server book from a short apron that was wrapped around her waist. She set the straws down and pulled out a pen, clicking it quickly. 

“Welcome to Freddy's, we ready to order?” She asked, writing in her book. 

“I don't think we're quite ready, but four cups of coffee and four glasses of water would be appreciated,” Harry said. She nodded in acknowledgement before disappearing. 

“What if I wanted tea?” Draco asked, frowning a bit. 

“Love, the tea is bagged and certainly not up to your standards. Then they have brewed tea which I'm not sure you'd like either honestly. Plenty of cream and sugar on the table for you to water it down a bit… it is a bit water already though,” Harry said, sitting back as their server returned. She set the tray of drinks on the table, quickly passing them out and opening her book again with an expectant look. “Right, I'll go first. I'll do the three eggs scrambled with cheese, side of white toast, and bacon. Can you add on an order of the chocolate chip pancakes too? I'll take strawberry jam and butter for the toast.”

Blaise ordered next, Pansy followed by Draco until they all ordered, menus collected quickly as their server disappeared with a “it'll be right out”. Harry shrugged his coat off, letting it drape over the back of his chair and wrapped his hands around his mug. The steam rose in swirls in the air, Draco pulling the cream and sugar caddies towards him before ripping open no less than three sugars and dumping three creamers into the coffee, two vanilla and one regular. 

“By that point it's going to be sugary milky bean water,” Blaise teased, taking a sip of his own cup before giving a slight grimace, reaching over to snatch one packet of sugar. 

“And your expression is exactly why I'm doing it,” Draco sniffed. Harry chuckled in amusement, taking a sip of his own coffee and savoring the bold yet slightly watery flavor that he only seemed to find in New York Diners. Pansy followed Draco’s lead as they began to chat idily, discussing where they wanted to visit to go shopping. Harry was very interested in the Lego store so he could find something for Teddy and Pansy seemed interested in looking in Saks Fifth Avenue. 

It wasn't long until their waitress brought them their food on a large oval tray that she had on her shoulder. She brought it down and held it with one hand while passing out plates piled with French toast, pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausages, and toast. She set down three pots of jam and butter as additional and a craft of maple syrup. 

“Need anything else, honey?” She asked, snatching a coffee pot from a passing server and topping off Harry's coffee. 

“I think we'll be alright for now, thank you,” Harry said, taking a sip of his fresh cup. His stomach growled ravenously and he began to dig in eagerly, nearly moaning around the bite of pancakes.

“You know, Potter, this is actually quite delicious,” Pansy said while spearing a piece of omelette with her fork with a bite of sausage. 

“We'd come here sometimes after nights out before heading back to work right after. Always saved me in a pinch when I needed some carbs,” Harry replied, already halfway done with his stack of three pancakes. 

“The coffee is alright, but the food certainly makes up for it,” Blaise chimed in. 

“American diners are the best. Always quick and hit the spot after a night of drinking,” Harry grinned. They finished relatively quickly, the cheque being at the end of the table near Harry’s elbow. He opened it, looking at the amount and sliding two twenty dollar bills and a five for their thirty five dollar total into the pocket. When their server walked back to snatch it, Harry let her know she could keep the change. 

He shrugged his coat back on, beckoning them to follow him outside while he began to pull out a cigarette. Harry lit it, taking a puff while starting to walk more into the financial district to try and find a cab. He kept attempting to hail one of the bigger ones with no luck, the yellow taxis passing him by. They made it to Broadway before he was able to hail a cab, opening the door for them to pile into the back. Pansy and Blaise sat in the third row while Draco and Harry sat in the captain chairs. 

“Can you take us as close as you can to 5th Ave and 49th St, mate?” Blaise asked from the back, looking at a map that was in the backseat pocket. 

“Sure. Gonna cost you a pretty penny in this traffic,” the driver said, immediately taking off as the door closed. 

“That won't be a problem,” Harry assured, clicking his seatbelt into the buckle and reaching over to do the same to Draco who was hanging on for dear life on the overhead handle bar. 

“I know my drivin’ ain't that bad. You Brits always are so dramatic. Relax, loosen up a bit,” the cabby said, looking at Draco in the rear view mirror. 

“We normally take the bus where we're from. He's just not too fond of cars,” Blaise jumped in, shooting Harry a look. 

“Yeah, he just really hates cars,” he joined in. 

Draco looked like wanted to murder both of them. 

It did take almost thirty minutes to get to their destination and Harry forked over thirty dollars in cash before they made their exit at 50th st, Draco scowling when they got out. 

“I hate cars? I've never bloody been in a car, I'm a wizard!” He hissed, eyeing the shoppers that were side stepping around them. 

“Well… you hated being in the car so you hate cars,” Harry shrugged, “but I'll make it up to you by giving you some money to buy something nice!” 

“I have my own money!”

Harry huffed a laugh and pushed a couple of bills into Draco’s jacket pocket, “Well we clearly insulted you, so here's a hundred and fifty. Think of it as a Christmas bonus since we're up by twenty percent this year even with the more expensive wines.” 

“Oi! Where's my Christmas bonus?” Blaise finally cut in. 

“Oh, apologies, I left it back in London, Zabini. You'll get it by next never,” Harry said as they began to walk towards 49th. 

“Ta ever so, just remember who balances your ledger. I know you make and have more than enough to spare me a bit of money too,” Blaise sniffed. 

Harry did end up slipping one hundred and fifty dollars into Blaise’s jacket pocket as well as Pansy’s, unable to resist spoiling his friends just a bit from the money he had earned. 

Besides, he really did appreciate all that they had done the past couple of months. 

They take in the still bustling city around them, bright holiday displays showcased in almost every window. There were bright lights twinkling despite it being daytime and large red and green banners hanging off buildings, billowing in the cold wind. 

He was so excited for after dinner to show them some of the pubs he had chosen and show off the Christmas Market at Bryant Park or even Rockefeller Center when all the lights start twinkling and the city comes to life. 

Harry was dragged to not just Saks Fifth Avenue, but also to a shoe store and a jewelry store before he managed to wrangle them into the Lego store, dodging around the carolers that were budged up near the chapel. There were bright colors and large displays of cars and aeroplanes built completely out of small plastic bricks, shelves lining the walls to display the numerous sets. 

He ended up picking out a stegosaurus, two castles- Harry secretly wanted one for himself-, a switch fighter jet, the New York City Sears Tower, and two Taj Mahal’s. 

Look, they looked cool and Harry thought maybe putting together one of these with a glass of firewhiskey would be nice after one of his shifts since they looked rather intricate. 

Harry then managed to convince them to walk over to the Nintendo Store, Harry becoming enthralled with the DSi. He never played video games growing up because Dudley would never share, but he did remember the muffled shouts and gunfire coming from the telly when he was home for summer breaks. These were enthralling, as they were handheld little video game consoles and you could still play with your friends. 

He may or may not have splurged. 

No, he certainly did. 

Christmas was always the holiday he tended to go a bit overboard with as an adult and it still stemmed from how he didn't have much to give when he was growing up. He never got gifts, nothing at least until he got to Hogwarts and even then, they sent him a 50 pence piece, a toothpick, and a tissue. 

So yes, he liked to spoil his friends and family just a bit when Christmas came around. 

So yes he bought Teddy a couple of different games and seven copies of Mario Kart…. and maybe seven of the DS Lite instead of the DSi was rather pricey considering it was new. 

He just had to now make sure to get the rest of the gifts he wanted when he got back to London. 

And while he hates spending money on himself, he does love spending money on others who appreciate it because even as an adult he wants to share anything he has with those closest to him. 

Once they were laden with numerous bags, Pansy clutching a new lipstick she had gotten from the cosmetics counter at Saks, they found an alley to discreetly shrink their bags in and tuck them away in their pockets. 

Harry really hopes the shrinking charm doesn't interfere with the DS’.  

It was nearing two in the afternoon by that point so they made sure that the dumpster in the alleyway covered where they were standing from the view of Muggles before apparaiting to Warwick, New York. Harry stumbled, placing a hand on the brick wall of a different alley that was blanketed in a soft layer of undisturbed snow. The air that filled his lungs immediately felt a bit cleaner as the mountain air surrounded them, snow falling gently from the sky. 

“Guess it’s time to find out where we’re going, yeah?” Harry said, peaking around the corner of the brick wall. There’s minimal foot traffic, some teenagers laughing as they walk down the sidewalks with their school bags in hand. Harry slides his wand into his hand, tucked under his sleeve to mutter a soft ‘point me’. 

“It’s quite different here than the city,” Blaise comments, looking around the small town with interest. 

“New York State is lovely. You should see it in the fall, but winter is quite nice as well,” he shrugged, beginning to lead them down the street and past the brightly lit shops. The town had garland and bows hung from the lamp posts, posters of Father Christmas in the windows. The snow crunches beneath their feet as they walk, cars driving by as they finally make it to the winery. It was nestled next to a park and overlooked an icy creek that seemed to run through the town. It was different from some of the other vineyards they had gone to, but their main location in the mountains was closed for the season, so they had to settle for the tasting room. 

As Draco pulled open the door, Harry followed him, shuddering at the warmth that flooded him after facing the cold. Draco looked so flushed from the cold, rosy red cheeks and bright eyes as they were led to a table by the fire. There was a rather large Christmas tree next to them, decorated in red and gold, green garland with pinecones and berries hanging off the mantle of the fireplace. It felt warm and cozy as they began to settle into the overstuffed chairs in front of the fire. 

“This is nice,” Pansy hums while picking up the wine list with a manicured hand, “It’s almost nicer than London around Christmas time.”

“I promise, it’s completely comparable. Wait until tonight when we go to the bars I picked around the hotel. We’re staying rather close to Bryant Park, so we’ll start there to see the Christmas Market before going anywhere,” Harry was nearly vibrating in his seat, a small pang in his chest wishing that Ron and Hermione were with them, but the joke shop was too busy for Ron to take off and the Ministry was trying to push out new legislation proposals before the end of the year. 

They fall into a comfortable conversation after Draco, as usual, orders the wine for the table, going back and forth– really it was Harry going back and forth – on why New York City was comparable to London in terms of bloody holiday decor. 

Pansy brought up how London’s decor was just elegant and much more classy, but Harry countered how bold and extravagant New York’s was and how it is just as nice. 

Blaise commented on how London was very focused on the royalty and history in their displays and Harry countered that New York being more modern wasn’t a bad thing. 

Draco had merely shrugged, watching them go back and forth like children while sipping his wine, offering a “I haven’t seen the charm yet,” when asked for his opinion on the subject. 

They continued back and forth before the conversation went completely off the rails and into the things that made Christmas Christmas and Pansy was dead stuck on galas being what really made Christmas fun. He felt uncomfortable. It was the first time in a long time his skin felt just a bit too tight, but he thought about Christmases at Hogwarts or at the Burrow. The Christmas he spent with Sirius. 

Warmth. Family. Love.

It was so different before he went to school. 

Harry worried his lip, the three Slytherins bickering back and forth before he took a breath. “I think what makes Christmas is being with family. I might like to go a bit overboard now, but until Hogwarts I didn't have a Christmas at all unless you count me minding the ham,” he wrinkled his nose, “Being with those who I care about the most is what I enjoy.”

The silence was deafening for a few moments, Harry nervously draining his wine glass. The first to break the silence was Blaise who huffed out a breath, taking a sip of wine before speaking. 

“The way I always learn more about you is when you drop the most depressing tidbits of information, Harry,” he teased, trying to lighten the mood. Harry let out a laugh, watching the tension ease from Draco and Pansy’s bodies. 

“Yes, it's a bit of a habit. It's not easy… directly talking about some of these things, but sometimes they just slip out.”

“Well we're always here when you need us, darling,” Pansy offered, face screwing up a bit in discomfort. 

“Please, he just needs us to run his restaurant,” Draco snarked in an attempt to lighten the mood. 

“Might be onto something with that one,” Harry said with a laugh, looking at the large clock that hung near the bar and taking note of their empty drinks. “Shall we start heading to dinner? It's nearly time for our reservation.” 

Draco hums, setting down what looked to be about eighty dollars in American cash. “I suppose we should. I got a catalogue this time so I can decide which wines I want to buy once we're back in London.” He stood, stretching his limbs and shrugging on his coat. 

“Didn't want to buy fifty bottles like you did in France?” Blaise teased. Draco simply turned his nose up, turning his back to Blaise and beginning to head towards the door. 

“You only want me to buy that many again so I'd slip you a bottle.”

“Oi! What do you mean slip him a bottle?”

“Exactly what I meant, Potter. I gave him a bottle.”

“Did he pay for this bottle?”

“Absolutely not. I was supposed to adjust it out of my paycheque,” Blaise snorts as they make it into the street. 

“Stealing my wine, Zabini? Might need to take that bonus I was going to offer you.”

“As if. I quite literally do your payroll and balance your ledger, Potter. What if I'm already embezzling money?”

“Wait- Are you stealing money?” 

“Do learn to take a joke.”

Harry huffed, herding them into an alleyway only to apparate them to The Inn. 

 Pansy stumbled a bit, glaring at Harry. “Bit of a warning next time would be appreciated.”

“You knew we were- you know what? Never mind. You lot are going to drive me barmy,” Harry said, opening the gate that led to the front walkway. The Inn stood regally in front of them, a massive colonial farm house from the 1700s that sat on an apple orchard. There was garland and soft twinkling lights strung across the outside, large wreaths with red bows hanging in every window. There were light up deer scattered around the yard that reflected in the soft, undisturbed snow that covered the yard like a blanket. The walkway to the steps were shoveled, blue salt covering the bricks and crunching under Harry’s feet as they made their way to the front door. 

As soon as they crossed the threshold, they were cheerfully greeted by two hosts, but Harry was too busy taking in the interior which seemed much grander than some of the places they had visited. There was a large grand staircase that had a floor to ceiling Christmas tree in front of it that was decorated in golds, silvers, and blues and white garland wrapped around it. There were green garlands and baubles hanging off the banister and the lights strung up blinked at various intervals. 

They were led into the garden room for their reservation, a converted sunroom with glass ceilings and an outlook to what would be a blossoming flower garden in the spring and summer covered with Christmas lights and light up displays. The room had its own Christmas tree in the middle with fake snow adorning the branches and silver and gold ornaments hanging off of the tree. There was a pile of boxes wrapped in white wrapping paper and strings of lights hanging from the ceiling. They were seated at a table close to the window, water glasses already filled with iced water. 

“It's quite lovely in here,” Draco said softly, mindful that there was only quiet chatter and the soft instrumental Christmas music that played over the sound system surrounding them. 

“It's very festive,” Harry nodded, eyes trailing around the room, completely missing their server who approached the table.

“Good evening, my name is Sam and I'll be taking care of y’all this evening. Have you folks dined with us before?” She asked, Harry recognizing a bit of the US Southern Drawl in her voice. 

“We have not. This is our first time,” Blaise answered her, flashing a charming smile in their waitress’ direction. 

“Oh, y’all are British! That's fun. Last time I served someone who was British was when I was working for a Michelin Star down in Georgia! Well, welcome to The Inn. We just earned our second star and have been on the Michelin guide since 1986 and earned our first star in 2000. This lovely place was built in 1796 with the Western Expansion by The Burke family and eventually it was bought and renovated in 1979 by the previous owners to create The Inn. Just some facts we go over for our newcomers! In front of you in your napkin set ups you'll find your menus for the evening tucked in there along with wine pairings for each meal if you choose for sixty dollars additional per head. There's also a drink menu in the middle of your table for a la carte ordering, I recommend the Snowman Jam as an after dessert cocktail. It's a play on a White Russian with horchata instead of cream. So what are we thinking?” Sam asked, hands clasped behind her back, shoulders straight, but making sure to engage eye contact with everyone at the table. 

“I think we'll all do the wine pairing, but we'll keep the cocktail list in mind for dessert,” Harry said, plucking the menu out of the linen and looking over it.

Amuse Bouche 

*Crispy Oyster with Champagne Vinegar Granita and caviar 

Appetizer - Paired with a French Chablis 

*Long Island Fluke Crudo with meyer lemon vinaigrette and crispy shallots

Soup - Paired with an unoaked New York State Chardonnay 

*Roasted Cauliflower Velouté with black truffle oil and crispy garlic

Fish or Vegetarian Course - Paired with a Californian Pinot Noir

*Seared Black Sea Bass with a Saffron and Fennel sauce 

Or 

*Potato stuffed cabbage with a leek and garlic sauce with crispy garlic and parsley oil

Palate Cleanser - Paired with Champagne

*Grapefruit Sorbet

Main Course - Paired with a Cóte de Beaune 

*Braised Beef Cheeks with carrots, potatoes, and smothered in a red wine reduction

Or 

*Seared Foie Gras-Stuffed Chicken Breast with Morels and Madeira Sauce 

Dessert - Paired with a late harvest Colorado Riesling 

*Cheese plate showcasing the region’s best cheeses 

Followed by 

*Warm Apple Tart Tatin with Calvados Ice Cream 

“I'll be back with the amuse bouche and bread then and get y'all's orders for the fish and main courses. I'll be right back,” she excused herself, making her way out of the garden room. 

“There’s nothing about bread on here,” Draco said with a slight furrow of his brow. 

“Oh. A lot of American restaurants offer free bread to the table. It's quite nice honestly, I hope the butter is good,” Harry commented, setting aside the menu. 

“Free bread? As in we aren't being charged for it?” Blaise asked, exchanging a look with Pansy. 

“Yeah, some places look down on it, but I'm sure it's some artisanal bread that they make in house. American Michelin stars are very particular and tend to portion courses, including bread, to an absolute finesse so we as the patrons don't feel very full, just satisfied. Of course that's most standard Michelins, but there are plenty that do it differently,” Harry explained, watching as their server returned with their amuse bouche and the bread, quickly handing everything out before setting the bread in the middle of the table. 

“Make some decisions yet, honey?” Their server asked, looking at Pansy before addressing the rest of them. 

“I think I'll try the vegetarian and chicken options,” Pansy said, setting her menu to the side. Blaise went next followed by Draco, leaving Harry to mull it over one more time before deciding on the vegetarian option and the braised beef cheek for his choices. He quickly opened his notebook, scribbling down vegetarian options? direct eye contact? Not old enough to have a backstory, but I liked the personality from the service? before snapping it shut and slipping it back into his jacket pocket that was draped on the back of his chair. 

They began chatting quietly, their voices joining the ambiance that surrounded them, Sam at their side almost as soon as they would be finished with their plates to take them away and return with the next wine pairing. 

There was one hiccup that they didn't even notice. 

A very business-like looking man approached their table, shoulders back as he carried a tray of wine glasses, all filled with red wine.

“I deeply apologize, but your dinner course has gotten just a bit behind. As an apology, I got my sommelier to choose a wine just for you lady and gents to sip on while you wait,” the man said, beginning to set down each glass, salt and pepper hair glittering slightly in the lights. 

“Oh, it isn't any trouble,” Harry started, only to be cut off as the man moved his hands and the tray behind his back. 

“Mr. Potter, I refuse to let the owner of one of the best restaurants in London not be compensated for a mistake on our part. Please accept the wine, it's a lovely 1996 Zinfandel that is medium bodied with lots of fruit,” the man said with a wink, quickly excusing himself before Harry could argue further.

“That man knows who I am,” Harry said, a bit dumbstruck at being recognized. 

“As if you weren't famous enough for defeating the Darkest Wizard of our time, you're now completely famous for your restaurant,” Draco snorted, a smile playing on his lips as he took a sip of the new wine. “Oh this is lovely. I think you'd like it.”

“I wasn't recognized anywhere else. I- I just wasn't expecting it,” he said sheepishly. 

“It's alright, mate. Look, you got us free wine too, not just free bread,” Blaise smirked. 

Pansy made a noise of agreement, “Yes, if dining out with you means free wine, I'm all for everyone knowing who you are, darling. Use your fame for the collective.” 

“You all are insufferable,” Harry huffed. Draco clicked his tongue, pinning Harry with a look, but a teasing glint reflected in his silver eyes. 

“That's a big word, darling. Don't hurt yourself by overthinking about it,” he said with the corner of his mouth quirked. The conversation spiraled into if the servers in France, Italy, or Spain actually knew who Harry was, but didn't say anything- leaving out Japan due to the fact they were much farther away than the American East Coast and surrounding European countries. 

Their entrees came not too long after along with the wine pairing, Harry nearly moaning at how tender the braised beef was. It just fell apart on the plate, the steak knife that was presented with it not even needed. 

When the cheese course came, it arrived on a goat shaped cart that Sam was thrilled to inform them was named Deborah, cutting slices of cheese onto plates right from the cart. 

After the buttery, flaky, warm apple dessert, they ended up indulging in the Snowman Jam cocktail and were presented with truffles at the very end of their meal before Harry was presented with the check, the amount an eye watering eight hundred dollars due to the wine and cocktail inclusions. “We should alternate at the holiday pubs and the market,” Harry suggested, tucking his muggle bank card in the book while secretly glad that he split his own salary between his muggle and Gringotts accounts. 

“Shouldn't be an issue. New York is rather expensive, isn't it?” Blaise said, draining the last drops of the cocktail. 

“A bit,” Harry admitted, knowing that he spent quite a bit of money that day. “What did the hotel run you?”

“About a hundred and fifty for the room. Not terrible for the Ritz, I assume the market crash had something to do with that,” Blaise said, grinning with teeth and all. 

“I'm sorry, did you say the bloody Ritz? As in Home Alone the Ritz? Good Godric,” Harry breathed, sitting back against his chair with wide eyes. 

“It's the first hotel I booked,” Blaise merely shrugged, looking almost bored. Harry rolled his eyes in exasperation, thanking Sam for her service and opening the book to write two hundred dollars on the tip line. Pansy leaned over, eyebrows shooting up into her hairline when she spotted the bill. 

“Harry, darling, why did you…” she gestured to the book. 

“America is different. I allow my staff to receive tips and they make quite a bit, but they also make a handsome base pay that gets increased by one percent every six months until they hit a fixed amount. It's how I retain staff. In America, most of the servers make two dollars and thirteen cents in American money which is one pound and seventy pence in pounds which turns into maybe a galleon in wizarding currency? It's not very much and they live off tips so I tend to over tip in America. It's honestly a horrid system, but some of the front of house always come out with plenty at the end,” Harry explained, signing the slip and moving to shrug on his jacket. 

“They don't pay their staff? How do they get away with that?” Blaise questioned, standing himself as they all began to make their way to the front doors.

“It's an odd system that the staff here seems to like. If I understood it correctly, it helps with things like food cost and labor,” he shrugged as they stepped out into the cold. It was dark now, the bright lights that seemed soft when they arrived now dazzling as they left. They made their way down the walkway and a bit down the drive before appariating back to the same alley way they apparated from earlier in the day. 

Harry led them first to Rockefeller Center, showing off the massive Christmas tree and the hordes of giggling children as they skated around the ice. He pointed out the angels blowing their horns and all the different lights that were bold and bright. 

The smell of chestnuts began to waif through the air, numerous couples and groups of friends stepping around them with rosy cheeks and pink kissed noses with food or cocoa in their hands. They made it into Bryant Park, the Christmas Market particularly busy for a Sunday, families and children and couples enjoying the lights around the park. It wasn't long until Harry was convincing them to try different food stalls ranging from slices of pizza with truffle and cupped pepperoni, hot cocoas with giant toasted marshmallows, and spicy mini dumplings or hand pulled noodles. They would crowd together, taking turns trying the food as laughter filled the air from the nearby bumper ice rink. The warm food sobered them a bit from dinner as the icy wind made their cheeks twinge, Pansy finally admitting that maybe New York City didn't do a terrible job decorating for Christmas. 

It was bright and beautiful and everything Harry remembered it was the first time he saw the Christmas lights go up. 

Harry managed to wrangle them to the first pub, Scott's, which had people crowded around the bar and clustered around tables. Christmas music was pouring through the speakers as Harry managed to get past the bouncer without being ID’d, moving them to the one free table near the server station. Once seated, they finally had a chance to take in the decor, the walls covered in shimmering wrapping paper, ribbons hanging from the ceiling in delicate twists, and large snowflakes hanging down between the ribbons. There were bows and ornaments and little trees crowding almost any surface it could without being too much in the way. The service was prompt, each of them trying a holiday cocktail- Harry didn't enjoy the gingerbread old fashioned he had ordered and had switched with Draco to sip on his delicious spiked eggnog -before they closed out and moved on to the next bar. 

This one was named Alō and was decorated top to bottom in tropical Christmas decorations from a Father Christmas in a bikini to a snowmen surfing wrapping paper clinging to the walls. There were dozens of tropical themed baubles hanging from the ceiling and they ended up not staying as long at this one due to it not being exactly what they were looking for. 

Tasty drinks still in Harry’s opinion. 

The last one was a bar that switched to ‘Miracle’s Wish’ for Christmas. There were long garlands strung across the ceiling with large and small ornaments hung down, lights intertwined to make them sparkle. There were snowflakes plastered on the walls and rows of white, pink, blue, gold, green, and red Christmas lights draped behind the large snowflakes. There was fake snow on the bar and each cup was a different festive shape and the cocktails were absolutely delicious. The decor wasn't too crowded or too loud and they could actually hear themselves as they chatted at the table they were occupying. They ended up getting another round, Harry sipping some sort of gingerbread bourbon espresso martini. 

Listen, it came with a little gingerbread man cookie and Harry couldn't resist. 

The banter and chatter came to a gentle halt as exhaustion began setting in, Draco leaning into Harry’s shoulder as he lazily circled his glass with his cocktail stirrer. 

“Should we finally head to the hotel?” Blaise asked, one arm wrapped around Pansy who was nearly asleep on Blaise’s shoulders. 

“I'd say so. It's like we wore out two children between these two,” Harry joked, finishing his drink. 

“Someone has to be the adult,” Blaise smirked, kissing the top of Pansy’s head. Harry managed to convince Blaise into the naughty and nice shot when they asked for their bill, Blaise placing cash in the book and then clicking his glass to Harry's before they both threw back the shot. Harry’s was minty and smooth and immediately made his head rush while Blaise coughed a bit, shaking Pansy just slightly. 

“What was in that?” Blaise wheezed. 

“Looks like you got fireball, butterscotch schnapps, and Bailey’s. Mine was rumple minze and chocolate liquor,” Harry said, looking at the menu. 

“Never make me take something like that ever again.”

“I'm sure it wasn't that bad,” Harry rolled his eyes, beginning to shuffle a very grumpy Draco out of the booth. 

“I think the fireball is what made it ghastly,” Blaise muttered, gently pulling Pansy up who looked around tiredly. They bundled back up into their jackets before leaving, walking about a block over to the Ritz, Blaise carrying Pansy on his back and Draco nearly dragging Harry forward. 

Once they stepped into the grand entrance, Harry barely had time to look around at the high vaulted ceilings and marble that seemed to be everywhere before they were at the check in desk and receiving their keys. 

“Enjoy your stay,” the man said, adjusting his stuffy suit with a look of distaste at their state. Harry and Blaise led the other two towards the elevator that was framed in gold, the gentleman inside directing it not saying a word as they asked for the tenth floor. 

They rode up the elevator, Blaise saluting to Harry as they began walking in opposite directions. Once they arrived at their room, Draco immediately took out his bags and unshrunk them, pulling out a pair of joggers and stripping before getting into the large bed. Harry looked around, taking in the plush carpet and large tv, the white walls with golden light fixtures attached to them, the marble trim of the doorframe and dark wood of the furniture.  

Harry unshrunk his bag and tied off his shoes, walking over to the bed to kiss the top of Draco’s head who was already asleep. He quietly pulled a hoodie over his head and made his way to the large floor to ceiling glass windows, finding the latch to the sliding door and stepping out into the New York night air. The cars honked and passed below him as the city lights were twinkling, the sounds of sirens off in the distance. 

He lit a cigarette, letting the smoke curl around his face as he leaned on the railing, snow falling down as he took in the city he used to call his home yet fully knowing that London was his home. 

London with Ron, Hermione, Pansy, and Blaise. 

London with Draco. 

He did quite miss New York City, but as the cigarette smoke danced and faded in the air, he was glad he made his way back home. 

And with one last inhale of smoke, he stubbed out his cigarette and returned inside to curl up next to Draco Black, drifting off into a dreamless sleep.