Finding the perfect private dining room in New York City that doesn’t break the bank can be a challenge. Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, a corporate gathering, or a family reunion, you want a space that balances ambiance, great food, and affordability. Luckily, NYC is home to many fantastic options that offer memorable experiences without sky-high prices.
For even more recommendations, check out this curated list of restaurants for large groups that offer excellent spaces for any budget. For an amuse bouche, here’s a list of 15 awesome yet affordable private dining rooms in NYC to explore as you plan your next group event.
The Best Affordable Private Dining Rooms NYC Has to Offer
When selecting a private dining room, it’s important to consider the overall experience, not the cost investment alone. Does the restaurant accommodate dietary restrictions? Is the atmosphere formal or casual? Will sound and laughter carry through the space for a more lively energy, or is the private room more intimate and reserved? Would the space allow for speeches, presentations, or A/V equipment rentals? =
Considering all these factors with care helps ensure your event runs smoothly, meets your expectations, and leaves your guests feeling warm and fuzzy after the perfect memorable dining experience.
1. Lil’ Frankie’s
Lil’ Frankie’s is cozy and casual with delicious wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian dishes at budget-friendly prices. This is one of the best casual and affordable restaurants for groups looking for an intimate setting.
- Location: East Village
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $1,500+)
2. Pig & Khao
A vibrant setting offering bold flavors and a lively atmosphere, perfect for groups of 30+ or a full-buyout for up to 70 guests.
- Location: Lower East Side
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $1,600+)
- Rubirosa
Famous for its vodka sauce pizza, Rubirosa’s private dining space is perfect for intimate gatherings looking for affordable private event options (groups 8-22 guests).
- Location: Nolita
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $1,200+)
4. The Smith
A go-to locals’ favorite for comfort food, with private spaces available at reasonable group rates, with several locations in Nomad, Midtown, East Village, and Lincoln Square– each offering private dining options (group sizes vary by location).
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Cuisine: American
- Price: $ (Private dining minimum: $1,000+)
- Boqueria
At Boqueria, enjoy tapas-style sharable plates and a warm, inviting setting that’s perfect for festive group celebrations.
- Location: Flatiron, Soho, Upper East Side
- Cuisine: Spanish Tapas
- Price: $ (Private dining minimum: $500+)
6. Casa Enrique
Casa Enrique brings Michelin-starred quality with surprisingly affordable pricing in a welcoming private space. Plus, they offer brunch-for-dinner on the weekends– a unique locals’ favorite!
- Location: Long Island City
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Price: $ (Private dining minimum: $750+)
7. Sweet Chick
Known for its chicken and waffles, Sweet Chick provides a relaxed yet festive setting for private events. Their private space is called “The Record Shop” complete with a bar and custom retro sound system, and accommodates up to 30 guests.
- Location: Lower East Side, Williamsburg
- Cuisine: Southern Comfort
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $1000+)
8. Tacombi
Tacombi is casual yet stylish, with a variety of tacos and margaritas that make for a fun group experience. With a dozen locations across the city, Tacombi makes it easy to book the perfect convenient dining room that won’t break the bank.
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Price: $ (Private dining minimum: $700+)
- Dante West Village
A chic space with award-winning cocktails, Dante West Village is great for intimate private dining experiences. A half buyout can seat up to 25 guests, or a full buyout will seat up to 60.
- Location: West Village
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired Cocktails & Small Plates
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $1,500+)
- Hearth
Hearth’s East Village private dining room seats up to 30 guests, and has a warm and rustic atmosphere paired with a health-conscious menu that still feels indulgent. During the summer, they also operate an open-air wine bar location in Chelsea on the Highline, called “Hearth on the Highline!”
- Location: East Village
- Cuisine: New American
- Price: $$$ (Private dining minimum: $2,500 +)
- Celestine
Overlooking the East River, Celestine offers stunning views, a gorgeous dining space, and a delicious Mediterranean menu. It’s a perfect spot for large group gatherings with a scenic backdrop.
- Location: DUMBO, Brooklyn
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Price: $$$ (Private dining minimum: $2,000+)
12. La Pecora Bianca
Bright, modern decor with fresh pasta dishes, La Pecora Bianca is perfect for mid-size to large group gatherings. Depending on location (they have several), they can host private parties of up to 140 guests.
- Location: Midtown, Nomad, Soho
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price: $$$ (Private dining minimum: $2,500+)
13. Baar Baar
Baar Baar offers a fresh contemporary twist on Indian cuisine with a stylish private dining space. Their innovative dishes and creative cocktails make it a standout for special occasions. They can host private groups from 14 all the way up to 300 guests.
- Location: East Village
- Cuisine: Modern Indian
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $800+)
14. Freemans
Freeman’s is a true NYC hidden gem with a rustic, cabin-like setting that makes for a cozy and special private event. Great for both lunch and dinner events!
- Location: Lower East Side
- Cuisine: American
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $900+)
15. Pepe Giallo
Pepe Giallo is a charming, cozy Italian eatery with an intimate private dining room with home-style comfort food dishes. Its warm atmosphere makes it ideal for small to mid-sized gatherings.
- Location: Chelsea
- Cuisine: Italian
- Price: $$ (Private dining minimum: $700+)
Plan Your Next Private Dining Experience
Whether you’re organizing a milestone birthday or a corporate dinner, these affordable private dining NYC options provide a variety of cuisines and atmospheres to suit any occasion. By choosing one of these hidden gems, you’ll ensure an unforgettable dining experience without overspending.
