Fact: The holidays are just a little bit more special when they’re private. And they’re even better when they’re celebrated in one of these gorgeous private dining rooms.
Some good news: The available spaces are getting hipper and hotter every season — and this year, they include some of our favorite restaurants in town, bar none.
With space for 16 people to 100+, all tastes can (literally) be catered for. Isn’t it time to celebrate the holidays exactly the way you want?
Marianne’s, Union Square
Channeling the vibe of It Girl icon Marianne Faithfull, her super-chic namesake lounge is a part of the Hotel Zetta — convenient if you’re welcoming guests from out of town. There’s space for 25 (seated) or 50 (standing); if you’re looking for something slightly more rustic, try the neighboring Wine Stables, with its sexy-equestrian vibe and horsey-print decor.
Central Kitchen, The Mission
If you’ve ever flown home from a vacation in Italy wishing you could hold a family-style dinner in a Tuscan larder … we got your spot. Central Kitchen offers two spaces: the deli-styled Butcher Block (seated capacity 16, standing 25), and Euro-industrial The Upstairs (32/45). Expect a seasonal/local menu, like pork shoulder with stone fruit and onion.
Che Fico, The Mission
If you grew up going to holiday dinners in the spare room at your local diner — this is basically the opposite of that. Here, you’ll be in the Celentano Room at one of the city’s hottest eateries; invite up to 15 of your nearest ‘n’ dearest for a set menu rooted in Che Fico’s seasonal Italian — currently exemplified by a rabbit ragu with 24-month-aged parmigiano reggiano.
Fiorella, Richmond
If the weather cooperates, Fiorella’s Richmond District garden is a superior dining spot — even better if you buy out the space with up to 35 of your friends (seated, 40 standing). Obviously, you’ll be eating pizza and pasta — like the famous Clam Pie (with chopped clams, chilis, pecorino, and Fior di Latte) and cacio e pepe.
Leo’s Oyster Bar, Financial District
We challenge you to find a more-fun private event option than The Hideaway at Leo’s Oyster Bay, which looks like the scene of a particularly fashionable Mad Men party (seats 28). For an even bigger blow-out, consider buying out the entire restaurant (not for nothing our favorite oyster spot in town) — for 72 guests seated, or 110 standing. And one more choice: If you’ve ever dreamed of your own, private tiki bar (who hasn’t?), consider Leo’s bamboo-walled lounge. Christmas can’t get better than that.
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