Your Guide to Large Group Dining NYC in 2025

Updated January 30, 2025

Planning a large group dinner in New York City can feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re feeling the pressure that everyone needs to enjoy the event. We have been hosting NYC private dining events since 2011 and understand the challenges you’re facing. This guide will answer your questions and help you find the best large group dining NYC has to offer.

Before we dive in, we want to clarify that large group dining refers to dining events with 40 or more guests. If you are planning an event for a small group, check out our group dining ideas guide for tailored recommendations. 

Your Large Group Dining Problems, Solved

You are the first to understand that organizing a big group dinner can present some challenges. You have all of the regular group event problems, amplified by the fact that there are so many more people. We have over 14 years of experience building awesome, large group experiences. Here’s how to tackle the most frequent problems:

I know I should book early, but I still don’t know the total number of guests? 

You’re right, for large group dining, It’s best to book at least 4-6 weeks ahead, especially for popular restaurants or event venues. We understand it’s unreasonable to have a final guest count this far in advance. What most restaurants and event venues do is allow you to book with an estimated headcount. You can then finalize that number closer to the actual event date. If you come across a restaurant or venue that doesn’t allow that, that’s a big red flag and you should likely look elsewhere. 

Ugh, I don’t know where to host our group dining event, there are just so many options!

One of the biggest concerns when planning a NYC dinner for large group is finding a venue that can accommodate everyone comfortably. You need a space that doesn’t feel too crowded but also offers the right ambiance for your event. In our experience, it’s best to host your event at either a restaurant (the obvious choice) or an event space. 

For large groups, look for restaurants with dedicated private dining rooms or restaurants that allow full buyouts. This will give you the most flexibility and customization for your event. For a vetted selection, explore our list of the best restaurants for large groups NYC. Restaurants are great for team events, entertaining clients in town, or family and friend get togethers. 

If a restaurant isn’t the right fit for you, event spaces and venues are another fantastic option. Event venues often entail more work for the organizer, like hiring catering, figuring out decor, music, etc, but they do offer the opportunity to make the event truly unique. Event venues are great for conferences, product launches, and other events where customization is key. 

Am I responsible for everyone’s transportation to and from the event? 

It depends. But as great organizers like you know, details matter. Plus nothing can ruin a night for a guest like taking the wrong train, ending up on the other side of the city, and arriving an hour late to an event. 

For higher-profile events and VIP guests, we definitely recommend arranging transportation via private car. Use a reputable company with 5-star ratings so you can rest easy knowing that the car will arrive on time. 

For other events, at the very least, provide clear instructions on how to get to the venue and don’t assume anything is obvious. It’s likely that many of your guests are not local New Yorkers and might not understand the subways system or the bus routes. 

Lastly, be sure you’re choosing an event that everyone can access via public transportation. Not everyone has a car, so choosing an easily accessible location is essential. 

I’m worried about there not being enough food and drinks options for everyone. 

Food and drinks are arguably the most important part of any large group dining event. So it’s essential that there is enough for everyone, and that everyone finds something they love. 

Your private dining room manager or your catering company are great resources to help you plan an accessible and delicious menu for everyone. They can make recommendations based on what they know are crowd-pleasers, plus they’ll have specifics about what items are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more. 

As a general rule of thumb, order slightly more than what you think you’ll need. Again, your restaurant or catering company will have recommendations on the amount of food per guest and they tend to overestimate as well, which is a good thing. However, don’t go overboard because nobody likes food waste. 

How am I supposed to manage dietary restrictions for everyone?

As we just covered, when you’re planning a big group dinner NYC, you’re going to encounter various dietary preferences and restrictions. And with any dining event, it is essential that everyone feels cared for and leaves full. But with more than 4 in 10 Americans have some sort of dietary restriction, pleasing everyone isn’t always easy. 

We recommend communicating with your venue well in advance. Many restaurants offer group-friendly menus or can easily accommodate special requests. We also encourage organizers to include a dietary request in their RSVP form. Based on responses you can order specific dishes that suit all diets, giving you piece of mind that everyone is cared for. 

Also ensure there are non-alcoholic options. And we’re not talking about a can of Coke. Instead, feature high-quality alternatives like inventive mocktails, artisanal sodas, and low to no ABV spirits. 

How do I manage the alcohol budget?

Managing the alcohol budget can be challenging for large groups since it’s often one of the biggest unpredictable costs. To keep alcohol costs in check, look for venues offering fixed drink packages or drink limits per person. 

Another option is to choose a venue that allows you to set a budget for a set number of drinks or provides an all-inclusive package. If you’re booking a private dining room in NYC, be sure to ask about alcohol options that can help you stick to your budget while keeping your guests happy.

Large group events can break the bank. How do I keep my budget in check?

Managing the cost of a large group dinner in NYC can be overwhelming, especially when the guest list gets bigger. With minimum spend requirements, per person costs, gratuity, service fees, and more, it’s hard to actually understand what the final price will be. At Avital, we get this, which is why we’re revolutionizing the private dining industry with simple, per person pricing. 

All restaurants and venues are different and private dining pricing can really vary. Here’s a checklist of things you should be prepared to pay, so ask for these numbers up front. 

• Minimum Spend
• Price Per Person (food)
• Price Per Person (drinks) 
• Room Fee
• Service Fees 
• Gratuity 
• Tax 

How do I manage the event flow to best utilize the venue? 

The key to a smooth event is making sure people know where to go and keeping the energy flowing. Clear signage is a simple but often overlooked tool—whether it’s a welcome sign, table assignments, or directional signs to the bar or restrooms. Having someone act as a “host” or traffic director can also help guests find their way and keep bottlenecks from forming. Expect natural ebbs and flows throughout the night, and embrace them rather than fight them. One smart trick? Place a hosted activity, like a cocktail station or tasting experience, in a lower-traffic area to encourage movement and interaction.

Group banquets feel stale. How do I make the event more interesting?

A long sit-down dinner can sometimes feel predictable, dare we say boring. The key to making a banquet feel more interesting is to add in interactive elements. This might be a guided tasting led by an expert, a meet and great with the chef, or a DIY dessert bar. 

At Avital, we do think traditional dinners are boring which is why we created the Interactive Meal. This experience combines the timelessness and class with a 4-course meal, along with hosted, interactive activities throughout for that added magic. From making your own cocktails to an incredible flavor experiment, it’s a unique experience that guests and organizers love.  

How do I make sure people mix and mingle? I don’t want people to stay in their same groups all night.

It can be hard to encourage guests to break out of their usual social circles, especially in a large group. Encouraging movement is key! Assigned seating is a bit dated in our opinion, so instead encourage guests to move on their own. 

One way to do this is to arrange interactive stations around the restaurant or venue, like our Water Tasting Bar, that is not only a unique conversation starter, but is also totally inclusive. 

Another fun idea? Swap out the standard dining room for a New York food tour. During a food tour guests will naturally sit next to different people at each stop, allowing them to mix and mingle. 

Not everyone knows each other. How do I encourage people to meet new people?

A great way to break the ice is to add a team-based activity. Organize a quick trivia game, a scavenger hunt, or even a lighthearted competition where people have to work together. Randomly assigning teams ensures that guests mingle with people they might not naturally gravitate toward, making it easy for them to connect.

You should also consider using an experienced host to keep conversation flowing. A host can be a great way to break the ice in moments of awkwardness and bring people together. 

My group is loud! How do I manage the volume so everyone can still have a conversation?

Loud groups can make it difficult for people to hear each other, especially in more open restaurant settings. For large groups especially, we recommend restaurants with private dining rooms or secluded event spaces. These spaces help contain the noise and provide a more intimate environment for conversation. 

Additionally, if you plan to do any organized activities where instructions are important, we recommend a higher ratio of host to guest (approximately 1 host to every 4-8 guests) and/or printing instructions so hearing the host isn’t essential. 

But let’s be real, a loud room typically means people are having fun and connecting! So although it can be troublesome depending on the situation, it’s rarely an issue for guests. 

We have an important presentation to give during the dining event – when is best to do this and how do we ensure this goes off without a hitch?

Incorporating a presentation into a large group dinner can be tricky, especially when you want to ensure that all attendees are engaged and the event runs smoothly. Schedule the presentation at a time when guests are settled in and ready to focus—either before the meal begins or during a lull between courses. Ensure the venue is equipped with audio-visual equipment and has a quiet, private space where the presentation can be heard clearly. If you’re hosting in a private dining room, you’ll have greater control over timing and the environment, making it easier to manage the flow of the event.

We also recommend sending the presentation out to guests after the event. That way, if someone missed something during the hustle and bustle of the dining event, they can still have access to the information presented. 

The pressure is on! It’s really important that everyone has a good time and thinks the event is great.

This is what we hear from event hosts ALL. THE. TIME. And although it feels daunting, the answer is quite simple: The best large group events balance structure and spontaneity. It’s a combination of unstructured time to mix and mingle organically, paired with structured activities to keep conversation flowing with ease and encourage new connections. 

At Avital, we’re experts in this balance of structure and spontaneity. Here are some of our favorite experiences for large groups in New York.

NYC Interactive Meal 

A private dining meal paired with interactive activities.

Water Tasting Bar

A perspective-shifting, all-inclusive tasting station for your group dinner or event.

Flatiron Food Tour

A progressive meal in one of NYC’s most high end neighborhoods.

East Village Food Tour

A progressive meal in a trendy and diverse culinary neighborhood.

Restaurants vs. Event Spaces for Large Group Dinners

When planning your large group dining event, chances are you’re deciding between hosting it at a restaurant or event space. Here we break down the differences between your options so you can choose the right space for your event.

Restaurants with Private Rooms

Booking a private room in a restaurant is a great option for large groups who want the experience of dining out while still having an intimate, exclusive space. Private rooms typically accommodate 10-50 guests and come with the benefit of restaurant service, pre-set menus, and minimal setup on your part.

The downside? Space is often limited, and menus may be fixed with fewer customization options. However, for corporate dinners, birthday celebrations, or family gatherings, private rooms offer a convenient and comfortable setting. Check out some of the best options in this guide to restaurants with private rooms in NYC.

Restaurant Buyouts

For larger groups (50-200 guests) who want a full venue to themselves, a restaurant buyout is the way to go. This means you and your guests have exclusive use of the entire space, allowing for custom menus, branding opportunities, and complete event control. Pricing is usually based on a minimum food and beverage spend, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000+, depending on the restaurant.

The perk? Seamless restaurant-quality food and service. The challenge? Buyouts often have higher costs and may have restrictions on décor or entertainment. If you’re considering this option, take a look at this list of the best restaurants for large groups in NYC.

Event Spaces for Larger Gatherings

For groups over 100 guests or for those looking for a blank canvas, event spaces provide maximum flexibility. These venues allow for outside catering, customized layouts, and unique experiences, making them ideal for corporate events, galas, and weddings. However, event spaces often require more planning since you’ll likely need to coordinate rentals, catering, and staffing separately. While pricing varies, expect to pay a venue rental fee plus additional costs for food, drinks, and event production.

	Private Dining Room	Restaurant Buyout	Event Space
Definition	Enjoy a fully exclusive private space	Take over the entire venue for ultimate exclusivity	Non-restaurant venues with catering flexibility
Ideal Group Size	20-100 guests	50-200 guests	100+ guests
Pricing	$50-$250 per person	$10,000-$50,000+ (minimum spend)	$5,000-$50,000+ (venue rental + catering)
Great for	Business dinners, birthday parties, intimate gatherings	Corporate events, weddings, large celebrations	Galas, corporate parties, customized experiences
How to Book	Contact venue directly or via event planners	Requires early booking & contract	Book through event planners or venue contacts
Customization Options	Limited (preset menus, small décor changes)	Some (branding, custom menus, partial décor)	High (catering, entertainment, branding, décor)
Audio/Visual Availability	Sometimes (depends on venue)	Often available (but may require upgrades)	Usually included or rentable

Large Group Dining Activities

Want to make your large group dinner in NYC even more memorable? Adding an activity to the evening can keep your guests engaged and provide a fun twist on traditional dining. It’s the key ingredient that turns a boring old dinner into an awesome experience. Here are a few ideas we love, including some of our own experiences.

Tasting Bars

Tasting bars are a fantastic way to engage guests while keeping the atmosphere social and relaxed. Whether it’s a wine or whiskey flight, a chocolate and cheese pairing, or an olive oil and balsamic tasting, these stations encourage mingling and conversation. Avital offers several different tasting stations for large group events, including a water bar, flavor perception bar, and a nostalgic spirit and snack tasting bar.

Tasting bars work well for corporate networking events, client dinners, or milestone celebrations where guests may not all know each other and need an easy way to break the ice. They’re ideal for private dining rooms that have a bit of extra space or restaurant buyouts where multiple stations can be set up throughout the venue.

Hands-On Stations

If you want to take the dining experience beyond just eating and drinking, hands-on stations allow guests to get creative with their food and drinks. Think of a DIY cocktail bar where guests shake up their own drinks, a sushi-rolling station, or a make-your-own taco bar. These activities keep guests engaged and add a memorable, interactive element to the meal. Avital offers hands-on cocktail making as part of the Interactive Meal, along with a spice blending station for activations and on-site entertainment.

Hands-on stations are especially great for team building events, birthday parties, or holiday gatherings where you want a mix of structure and fun. Because they require some setup, they work best in event spaces or full restaurant buyouts, where you have room to spread out and let guests move freely between stations.

Food Tours & Progressive Dinners

For groups who want an experience beyond a single venue, a food tour or progressive dinner transforms the event into a culinary adventure. Instead of staying in one location, guests visit multiple spots, each featuring a different dish or course. Plus food tours can be fantastic for large group. For example, when we run one of our food tours in the East Village or Flatiron for a large group, we typically split the group up into smaller groups to visit each of the first three restaurants. Then for the fourth and final stop, all of the groups come together to the same restaurant!

This format is perfect for team outings, incentive trips, or client entertainment, especially in foodie cities like NYC where there’s so much to explore. Food tours work best for groups looking for a dynamic, casual event rather than a sit-down meal, while progressive dinners are great for private dining buyouts where guests can move from cocktails in one area to dinner in another.

Team-Based Challenges

If your goal is to encourage interaction and break people out of their usual social circles, team-based challenges are the way to go. Activities like trivia, escape-room-style puzzles, or scavenger hunts add a layer of friendly competition and keep guests entertained between courses or drinks. Plus, they’re fairly easy to organize so they can be a great last-minute addition.

These challenges are great for corporate events, team offsites, and large social gatherings, especially when attendees don’t all know each other. They work well in private dining rooms, where a host can guide the activity, or in event spaces, where there’s more room for movement and multiple teams.

Chef Demos & Culinary Performances

For a more high-end experience, a live chef demonstration or culinary performance turns dinner into a show-stopping event. Guests can watch as a chef prepares dishes tableside, a bartender performs flair tricks, or an expert teaches a hands-on pasta-making class.

These experiences are perfect for client appreciation events, VIP dinners, or intimate celebrations where guests want an elevated experience, but don’t want to get their hands dirty. While chef demos can sometimes be incorporated into private dining rooms, they shine best in restaurant buyouts or event spaces, where the performance can take center stage without interruption.

Large Group Dining in NYC Considerations 

Booking a private dining experience designed for large groups is essential for a successful event. From tailored menus to AV equipment or conference facilities, large events have specific requirements to make them perfect for team building and client entertainment. When booking a private dining experience for a corporate group, there are a few things to consider to ensure that everyone has an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

1. Capacity and Layout: Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your group size and has a layout conducive to socializing.
2. Private Space and Ambiance: Choose a venue with a private or semi-private space that aligns with the desired atmosphere for your event.
3. Cuisine and Menu Options: Confirm the venue offers a diverse menu to cater to various dietary preferences and can customize it based on your group’s needs.
4. Service and Staff: Check the level of service provided by the venue’s staff, including waitstaff and support staff, as their professionalism can significantly impact the experience. (Tip: Avital’s Interactive Meal includes a dedicated, expertly trained Emcee Host(s) so you can sit back and enjoy the experience instead of worrying about the logistics.)
5. Cost and Payment Terms: Understand the venue’s pricing structure, minimum spend requirements, and payment terms to ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations. (Tip: Private dining pricing is confusing! Booking with Avital means simple, per person pricing without surprise charges.)

Expert Tips For a More Memorable Large Group Event 

Ok, so you’ve found the perfect venue for your large group. But how do you ensure that your experience is unique and memorable? Instead of a standard dinner, consider these easy-to-execute, yet fun and unique additions: 

1. Take-Home Gifts: A great way to make your group dining experience more memorable is to provide attendees with a personalized take-home gift, such as a branded tote bag, a custom engraved wine glass, or a locally sourced food item.
2. Custom Cocktails: Consider serving custom cocktails upon arrival to set the tone for the event. Work with the venue or restaurant to create a signature drink that reflects your company’s brand or the theme of the event.
3. Hands-on Activity: Adding a hands-on activity to your private dining experience can make it more engaging and interactive. A crowd-pleasing favorite is a cocktail-making station, where attendees can learn new skills and enjoy the fruits of their labor. (Psst! If you book the Avital Interactive Meal, this is included in the package!)
4. Themed Decor: Incorporating a theme or custom decor into the private dining space can create a more immersive experience for attendees. Whether it’s a company branding or a holiday theme, decorating the space can make it feel more special and exclusive.
5. Personal Touches: Don’t be afraid to add personal touches to the private dining experience, such as a personalized menu, a special dessert, or a surprise guest speaker. These small details can make the event more memorable and leave a lasting impression on attendees.

Book Your Big Group Dinner NYC with Avital

Booking a great large group dining experience in NYC doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Let Avital be your personal curator, taking care of every detail so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience. And with us, it won’t be just another boring dinner—it’ll be an awesome experience that turns your gathering into a memorable event.