Thanks. Looks like Craft could be the winner.

One last thing on my mind was that I heard Ma Peche could be good for a large group ... anyone been? Maybe too dead in midtown late night?

That's too bad. Nuela looks like a great option - something about Latin inspired food feels very "lively" :) Maybe it will be open by may

Craft is a great idea. Its been about 5 years since I was there last, I'd forgotten. I will call them today

Some other suggestions I received were:
- Landmarc in the TWC
- Boulud Sud

Any thoughts on these? Would you prioritize Craft over them?

Thanks Riverman. I could go either way - a private room / fixed menu would be fine by me.

I was hoping to get the help of the Chowhound community...

We are taking out a recent graduate (22 years old) for a celebration meal + his parents and family. I'm hoping for a place that is lively and cool enough such that the honoree feels its a place for him, but not so much to be not appropriate for a family meal (other attendees will range from 35-55 years old). We are preparing for an about 200/person budget (though would be fine to go under that!). Not italian and probably not sushi. We have about 12 people and the dinner is in a few months so there is time to plan.

Any thoughts on a great place? Obviously great food is what we are looking for would be happy with a great location / great ambience. Ideally we would not go too far downtown as our other events are uptown

Mmmm...

Buccatini at Lupa
Orechietti with pork ragu at Lupa
Watermelon and crispy pork salad at Fatty Crab
Fluke with buttermilk, yuzu, and Sriracha at Momofuku Ko
Brussels sprouts at Alta
Soft-boiled egg with hackleback caviar at Momofuku Ko
Crispy watercress salad at Sripraphai (Queens)
Mutton chop at Keen's
Red Mango original with mochi, chocolate chips, and strawberries
Banh Mi at Banh Mi So #1 (Broome between Mott and Elizabeth)
Pork buns at Fatty Crab

Thanks! Keep them coming...I'm writing all of these down...

Thanks so much! We are going with a large group, so I'm glad it's a good atmosphere for that. I've heard the pork chop and the lamb are great. Did you try those?

We are meeting friends for dinner at Platiyo this weekend. Is it great? What dishes do you recommend? Thanks!

I lived in Chicago a few years ago and am returning for a visit this weekend. I'd love some great recommendations for the best current restaurants. We are staying in Wrigleyville and we especially love cheap and ethnic, but are willing to pay $ and commute for delicious food. Thanks so much!