Best NYC Group Dining Ideas for 2025
Summary
This post highlights different NYC group dining ideas, including restaurants with private rooms, event venues, food halls, and more. There are also tips and considerations for group dining occasions, like team building, client engagement, and birthdays.
Updated February 13, 2025
Planning an NYC group dining experience? With so many choices—from restaurants and event spaces to food halls—it can be overwhelming to find the perfect fit. Different group dynamics require different setups, whether it’s a corporate outing, client dinner, or a celebration with friends. This guide breaks down the best group dining ideas in NYC.
Table of Contents
Comparing the Best Group Dining Options NYC
| Location | Restaurant Private Dining Room | Event Space | Food Hall | Food Tour | Catering |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 10-50 guests | 50-300+ guests | Varies by hall | 8-20 guests | Flexible, depending on venue |
| Cost | $$+ | $$$+ | $+ | $$+ | $$+ |
| Atmosphere | Formal or upscale casual | Varies | Lively, casual | Interactive, social | Customizable to event |
| Customization | Set menus, some flexibility | Highly customizable | Limited | Fixed itinerary, some customization | Fully customizable |
| Service Style | Plated or family-style | Plated or buffet | Self-serve | Seated or standing tastings | Plated or buffet |
| Alcohol Availability | Full bar | Full bar or beer and wine only | Varies | Varies by tour | BYO or bar service |
| Best For | Corporate dinners, celebrations | Large parties, weddings, product launches | Casual meetups | Team building | Private events, office parties |
| Booking Requirements | 1-3 months in advance | 3-6 months in advance | No booking needed | 2-4 weeks in advance | Varies, advanced booking often required |
Group Dining Restaurants NYC
Restaurants are a classic choice for group dining, offering a mix of convenience and atmosphere. It’s what most people think of when they think of group dining, and for good reason. You can choose the restaurant that best fits your group preferences and location, plus the restaurant does most of the heavy lifting.
- Pros: Wide variety of cuisines, pre-set group menus, professional service.
- Cons: Limited flexibility for group activities, noise levels may vary.
Restaurant Private Dining Options for Groups
In addition to selecting which restaurant you’d like, you also need to decide what style of dining you’d like, from a fully private room just for your group to a regular group reservation made online. Below is a high-level recap, but to see a full breakdown of the different private dining options, visit our NYC private dining guide.
Private Dining Rooms NYC: Fully enclosed spaces for privacy. Great for more formal events and celebrations, like impressing clients or milestone birthdays.
Semi-Private Spaces: Partitioned areas offering some privacy. Great for intimate gatherings and casual events, like a quarterly team building event.
Group Reservations: Regular table reservations for smaller groups. Great for casual dinners and meetups, like a family get-together.
Best NYC Group Dining Restaurants
Whether you’re looking for a rustic Italian spot or a high-end showstopper, here are some of our favorite restaurants for group dining in New York City.
Avital’s NYC Interactive Meal
Avital’s Interactive Meal takes place at the restaurant venue of your choice, from our vast network of partners (spoiler alert: they’re all fantastic!) You may be wondering why would I book a NYC private dining room through Avital when I could just book with the restaurant directly? Great question!
Booking an Interactive Meal with Avital isn’t just a regular old private dining room. Instead, in addition to a seated, 4-course meal with beverages, your Avital host will lead guests through three interactive foodie activities, like hands-on cocktails, foodie trivia, and flavor experiments. It’s your meal, it’s your activity, and it’s one of the best group dining options in NYC.
Birds of a Feather
In the mood for Chinese food? This is one of our favorite Brooklyn spots and is perfect for groups that like to share because you’ll want to try everything. The menu at Birds of a Feather is large enough for anyone in your party to find something they like and probably two to three things. Don’t leave without eating the soup dumplings (Crab Soup Buns) and Dan Dan Noodles which come in portions that are meant for groups.
Image Credit: @hernameishan
Her Name is Han
If you’re in NoMad with no idea where to eat with your group, head to Her Name is Han. The “Korean soul food” spot will make you feel like you’re eating a home-cooked meal made by someone’s Korean mom. Despite it’s medium size, the restaurant takes reservations for up to 20 online so you’ll have plenty of mouths to split bulgogi hot pots, octopus fried rice, Kalguksu noodles, and bowls. The menu encourages sharing and reads, “Share a pot, ease your heart.” You’re also going to want to split the kiwi sowuju to please your heart and tastebuds.
Image Credit: supperrestaurant.com
Supper
Supper, from NYC restaurateur Frank Prisinzano, is Italian private dining at it’s finest. The rustic interior mirrors the rustic but absolutely perfect pastas with rich sauces, fresh selection of anitpasti, and other daily specials. For small groups, you can simply make a reservation in the main dining area. But medium groups looking for a slightly more upscale occasion may consider booking the private dining room.
Image Credit: ilfioristanyc.com
Il Fiorista
Il Fiorista’s seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired fare is highlighted with fresh flowers and herbs. Their restaurant is bright and beautiful with subtle earth tones and pastels that really transports you to the Mediterranean seaside. Their private dining room is great for 20-ish person groups and can be totally customized from menus to the floral design.
Image Credit: aquavit.org
Aquavit
If you’re looking for a high-end restaurant for your group dining, Aquavit, a 2-star Michelin restaurant, serves Scandinavian cuisine in a chic, modern space. Group reservations are available or you can opt for one of their two private dining rooms. Both are equipped with screens, projectors, and wifi making them perfect for high-profile business meetings in New York.
Looking for More NYC Group Dining Restaurants?
NYC Event Spaces for Group Dining
Event spaces provide a blank canvas and are ideal for large group dining NYC or more formal events. These venues often include catering or allow you to bring in your own vendors.
- Pros: Total customization, flexible layouts, good for large groups
- Cons: May require more planning and additional costs for catering and setup
Best Event Spaces for Group Dining NYC
Whether you’re looking for an industrial-chic warehouse space or a waterfront venue, here are some of our favorite event spaces good for groups in New York.
Image Credit: thefoundry.info
The Foundry
Located in Long Island City, this industrial-chic venue features exposed brick walls, lush greenery, and a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces that create a unique ambiance for group events. The versatile setting works well for both casual and formal gatherings, offering an intimate yet spacious feel. Dining options for groups include on-site catering services, or guests can bring in their preferred caterers for a fully customized experience.
Image Credit: piersixty.com
Current at Chelsea Piers
This waterfront event space offers stunning views of the Hudson River, creating a sleek and modern backdrop for group dining events. The venue includes in-house catering services, ensuring a seamless dining experience with expertly crafted menus tailored to different group sizes and preferences.
Image Credit: secondfloornyc.com
SECOND
A contemporary venue in Midtown with customizable layouts, Second Floor NYC is ideal for corporate events and private gatherings. The venue partners with top-tier catering services to provide a tailored dining experience, whether it’s a plated dinner, buffet, or cocktail reception.
Image Credit: rockefellercenter.com
620 Loft & Garden
A breathtaking rooftop venue in Midtown, 620 Loft & Garden offers stunning skyline views and an elegant garden setting. Perfect for intimate group events, it allows for both in-house catering and external catering services, giving planners flexibility in menu design and service style.
Image Credit: tribecarooftopnyc.com
Tribeca Rooftop
This spacious event space in downtown Manhattan features panoramic views of the city, an industrial-chic aesthetic, and a rooftop terrace. With an on-site restaurant and catering team, groups can enjoy a full-service dining experience tailored to their event’s needs.
NYC Group Dining Food Halls
If you’re looking for a casual lunch or dinner good for groups, NYC food halls are a fantastic choice. Perfect for groups with diverse tastes or a more laid-back vibe.
- Pros: Variety of food, no formal reservations required, vibrant atmosphere
- Cons: Limited seating for large groups, less private
Best NYC Food Halls for Group Dining
We love food halls and markets for group dining because every guest can get exactly what they want. They’re far less formal than private dining rooms or events spaces, making them perfect for casual team get-togethers or lunch with friends.
Image Credit: hfbrandsandmarkets.com
Vanderbilt Market
Situated in Midtown near Grand Central, this food hall is perfect for quick bites and casual group meetups. The variety of vendors ensures everyone in the group can find something they enjoy, from gourmet burgers to fresh sushi. It’s an especially convenient option for after-work gatherings or lunch meetings.
Image Credit: essexmarket.nyc
Essex Market
A Lower East Side staple, Essex Market blends old-school charm with modern dining options. It’s great for groups looking to explore local vendors while enjoying everything from artisanal cheese to global street food. Communal tables provide a relaxed setting for casual get-togethers.
Image Credit: dekalbmarkethall.com
Dekalb Market Hall
Located in Brooklyn, this massive food hall features an eclectic mix of vendors serving everything from NYC classics to international dishes. It’s an excellent choice for adventurous eaters and groups looking for a lively, informal dining experience. The venue also offers occasional live entertainment, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Other NYC Group Dining Experiences
Perhaps you’re looking for something a bit more outside the box? When a restaurant or venue just won’t cut it, here are some more unique ideas to take your group dining to the next level.
Image Credit: avitalexperiences.com
NYC Food Tour
Ditch the single-venue dinner and instead treat your group to a progressive meal with Avital. Our guided food tours in the East Village and Flatiron take you to multiple top-rated restaurants, where you’ll enjoy a different course at each stop. Along the way, your expert host shares fun stories and insider details about the neighborhood’s culinary scene. It’s the perfect mix of dining, exploring, and connecting over great food.
Image Credit: hornblowercorp.com
Boat Dinner Cruise
Set sail on an unforgettable dining experience with a boat or yacht dinner cruise around NYC. Glide past iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge while enjoying a multi-course meal, cocktails, and often live music. Whether you choose a luxury yacht, a casual sailing schooner, or a themed dinner cruise, it’s a breathtaking way to dine with a group. Ideal for celebrations, corporate events, or simply a unique night out.
Picnic in the Park
Enjoy a relaxed yet elevated dining experience with a catered picnic in one of NYC’s scenic parks, like Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park. Whether it’s a chef-curated grazing board, a gourmet picnic basket, or a full catering setup with tables and décor, it’s a great way to dine al fresco. Perfect for birthdays, bridal showers, or team outings, a park picnic offers fresh air, stunning views, and a laid-back atmosphere. Just bring the group, and let the food come to you!
Cooking Class with Dinner
Turn your meal into an interactive experience with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to make pasta from scratch, roll sushi, or craft perfect cocktails alongside a professional chef before sitting down to enjoy your creations. Whether you’re bonding with colleagues, celebrating a special occasion, or just trying something new, a cooking class offers a fun mix of learning, teamwork, and delicious food. Plus, you get bragging rights for making an amazing meal!
Catered at Your Own Home or Office
Skip the crowded restaurants and bring the feast to you with a fully catered meal at your home or office. Whether it’s a chef-prepared multi-course dinner, a buffet-style spread, or a hands-on food station, catering lets you enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in a comfortable, personalized setting. Great for holiday parties, corporate gatherings, or milestone celebrations, it offers flexibility and customization without the hassle of dining out. Plus, no one has to worry about splitting the check!
Themed Theater Dinner
Step into a world of immersive dining with a themed theater dinner, where the entertainment unfolds around you as you eat. From murder mystery dinners to interactive historical feasts, these experiences blend storytelling, live performance, and a delicious meal. Expect actors in character, unexpected twists, and an unforgettable evening that’s far from your typical restaurant experience. It’s perfect for groups who love a little drama with their dinner!
Group Dining for Specific Occasions
Group Dining for Teams
For team building activities or casual work outings, choose a group dining options that allow for interaction and collaboration. The NYC Interactive Meal is a standout choice, blending food, fun, and teamwork. Food tours, cooking classes, and casual private dining rooms are also great choices.
Group Dining for Clients
Professional yet memorable venues like private dining rooms in upscale restaurants or elegant event spaces are ideal. Or you can opt for a unique experience, like a dinner cruise to impress and create lasting memories.
Group Dining for Friends & Family
Choose casual, celebratory venues that feel warm and inviting, such as lively food halls or a catered meal at home. These settings create a relaxed atmosphere for meaningful connections.
NYC Group Dining FAQs
NYC has countless options, including private dining rooms, semi-private spaces, and large group reservations. See our list of restaurants for large groups NYC for recommendations.
Yes, food halls like Chelsea Market or Time Out Market offer a laid-back yet exciting group dining experience.
For a fun, interactive option, try the NYC Interactive Meal—perfect for team building.
It’s best to book 2-4 weeks in advance, especially for private dining rooms or large groups.
Yes, many event spaces allow outside catering. Check our list of event spaces in NYC for more details.
Booking Your NYC Group Dining Experience with Avital
At Avital, we are your experts in private dining and know the problems organizers face when booking NYC group dining. That’s why we’ve created the best dinner for groups, the NYC Interactive Meal. Let Avital be your personal curator, taking care of every detail so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.
