Hi Spatula, well, LO never responded to my emails or contact forms for a private event. So they got eliminated. I am close to sorting this out though... ideally by the end of the week.

Sorry to hear about Prezza

that is hilarious. It took some time to explain the concept of a finished basement to my wife...

I am talking with Locke Ober. The experience does look entertaining for an event, but I am concerned about the quality of cooking after reading many savage reviews. If there is balance, fine. But if not, then the package won't work.

Spatula, others, what have been people's experiences here?

Cambridgedoctpr - totally agree with you on the steak issue. I was just told about a place called Craigie on Main in Cambridge. Any thoughts?

Checking into all these other ideas. Soon I will be better equipped to have parties in boston vs where I live. I'm surprised, many venues are really slow to private event enquiries.

Gabbata, do you think Erbaluce would be too casual for s/t like this? Thanks

thanks for the scoop on Grill 23, and the potential party hazards... I'm sure at least one of them would have joined you for a tequila shot. But I did get the impression that 30 ppl would be a squeeze.

The other running theme is a more "relaxed" Italian place as I am being lobbied for this by some guests. I may ignore them, but...

Does a fun, relaxed, quasi-casual italian (or italian american) place with a good wine list exist? They seem to be on either side of the spectrum, either very nice or too casual with suspicious wines. finding one in between is tough to figure out on-line.

thanks everyone

greygarious, having it at someone's home didn't work in the end, although would have been a great option, esp to retain control of wine/beer menu.

gabatta, thanks for the views and suggestions, will check them out
- food = good dry age US steaks or fresh seafood given Boston, nothing ethnic as easy access to that here.
- atmosphere = fun but something OK for broad age range; I like the idea of being on/near water and ability to mill about and relax with good food/wine
- night = Saturday.
- price point = not an issue if can find s/t where don't need to compromise on food/drinks combination, although Michelin stars or similar environs will likely freak out some attendees.

Allstonian, will be about 25-30 ppl. but I can upsize the guest list if a good venue requires it.

Hi all, I am flying into Boston from Europe for a joint 40th / 80th family b-day party. Planning this remotely is tough but lots of CH info has made it easier.

I started with steakhouses and seafood but slow going so far:
- Grill 23 - was told place is “stuffy” but menu looks good
- Delfriscos - really like waterfront venue, but wet aged beef and mixed reviews
- Abe & Louies - a contender but the private dining room pic looks like an art auction...
- Neptune Oyster – working on the private party / restaurant buy-out angle
- Legal Seafood – was vetoed by a key guest
- Trade – rec’d by a friend but not sure it works for the oldsters

Also thinking Italian for more relaxed party atmosphere. Skimming the boards, Prezza, Gran Gusto and Erbaluce are starting points based on food - although we're happy with either authentic or good Italian American.

Other ideas aren't working: traditional clam bake seems very touristy, and harbour cruise menus look rough.

As it's a very special occasion, I want to really do my homework. Any thoughts or recommendations from CH Boston crew? Would really appreciate it!

Cheers

A bit dated, but... ttoommyy, how did you like your meal at Prezza's if you can recall?

I am going through the same decision making process now.

Thanks

Veggo - by posting you have definitely made my wife and I happier (we are going to Cozumel with extended family). Is there anything else in Cozumel that scares off tourists but locals love? thanks again.