Where to Throw a Party in New York

207 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003 (map)

Believe it or not, David Chang’s notoriously crowded Momofuku Ssam Bar is a great place for a small group dinner. That’s because reservations are only granted to groups--specifically, groups ordering the Bo Ssam, a feast that includes an entire fall-off-the-bone-tender pork shoulder, a dozen oysters, white rice and assorted garnishes. It feeds six to 10 people and costs $200--which would be worth it just to get a reservation.

190 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009 (map)

Though this rustic, hipster-friendly East Village restaurant doesn’t normally take reservations, larger parties can book one of two communal tables (which seat eight and 12, respectively) and partake in the restaurant’s family-style Farm Table Feasts.

83 N 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 (map)

The wine flows like water at this cozy, bucolic Williamsurg enoteca, which only takes reservations for parties of six or more, making it perfect for a low-key gathering. Helpful waiters will suggest wine pairings to complement the tasty cheese and charcuterie plates.

304 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10010 (map)

For an affair to remember, invite your guests to this upscale table tennis club, which is as much about ping-pong as boozing. Groups of 10 or more can reserve their own state-of-the-art, Olympic-caliber tennis tables for $100 an hour, and when it’s not your turn to hit the ball, hit up the 30-foot-long bar and engage in a different sort of rallying.

118 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011 (map)

This 10,000-square-foot bar/restaurant/lounge in Chelsea was once a taxi garage (hence the name), but all traces of concrete and yellow lines are gone. Several distinct areas with vastly different vibes can be rented for private parties, and at least one of them is bound to satisfy your needs.

457 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231 (map)

It’s best known as a great local spot for dinner or date night, but it just so happens that this Italian tapas spot and wine bar in Carroll Gardens is an even better place to throw a party. That’s because just behind the restaurant you’ll find the Stable at Frankie’s: A rustic, brick building that dates back to the early 1900s and is now used exclusively for private parties.

22 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 (map)

For a low-key affair, consider renting the back room at this Meatpacking District restaurant, which specializes in delicious, no-frills hamburgers, milkshakes (booze optional) and assorted sides. It's available for rent during lunch, dinner and late-night, and holds up to 50 people. For a larger affair, head to the Rockefeller Center location, which can accommodate private parties of up to 300.

5 Spring St Frnt, New York, NY 10012 (map)

For casual, boozy parties, this Nolita bar is a perfect place to gather, whether you're a group of 20 or 75. Summertime is best, when the large back patio is open until midnight, but most nights you'll find a decent crowd without a line or pretentious door situation, so you can tell your crew to show up without having to contend with a list or bottle service situation.