CARMEL – One of the world’s most recognized actors and comedians was in Putnam County last week having lunch at Florrie Kaye’s Tea Room in downtown Carmel.
Gina Aurisicchio, proprietor of the popular restaurant on Gleneida Avenue, didn’t even recognize the celebrity when he first entered the eatery with several other men and women.
“A reservation had been made under another individual’s name and my staff and I had no idea that Billy would be dining at Florrie Kaye’s,” said Aurisicchio who added, “He had been there for some time when we realized that ‘the Billy Crystal’ was having lunch with us. Others in the dining room were also awe struck when the star’s notoriety became evident.”
Aurisicchio described her special customer as a “real gentleman. He was comfortable, relaxed and down to earth with no airs about him. He even purchased a number of items from our gift shop before departing.”
Crystal, 71, who was born in New York City, now resides with his wife in Pacific Palisades, California.
Crystal is best known for his box office successes ‘The Princess Bride,’ ‘Throw Momma from the Train,’ ‘City Slickers’ and ‘When Harry Met Sally’ where a scene in a kosher deli has co-star Meg Ryan fake an orgasm while dining on a pastrami sandwich, which highlighted the 1989 film that won an Academy Award.
Aurisicchio was reminded about the scene. “No moans and groans from Billy’s table this time. The guests enjoyed their selections tremendously nevertheless.”
Florrie Kaye’s opened three years ago. The business was Aurisicchio’s dream come true.
Since that time, the tea room has become a popular tourist attraction where people can visit, relax, socialize, and drink any one of 72 different teas while dining.
Florrie Kaye’s is a family affair with Regina’s mom, sister and nieces all part of the operation.
Regina admitted always loving teahouses. “My background is in the floral industry and food and flowers go well together.”
