
New York City’s mom-and-pop restaurants are vital to its soul, and it’s these independent places that led to fame for chefs like Ivan Orkin, Melba Wilson, and Roberto Santibañez.In a city that’s spoiled for choice with locally owned restaurants, some overtake the pack. These are the spots we go to when making dinner feels like a drag, where we meet up with neighbors for drinks and laughs, and where our server knows what we want before we even sit down.There’s a Harlem neighborhood staple that’s famous for its knockout chicken and waffles, an easygoing Mexican faithful where locals eat in sweats, and one especially family-friendly Cobble Hill steakhouse. Read on for a guide to 14 neighborhood restaurants that New Yorkers fiercely love.Brooklyn Gus’s Chop House (Carroll Gardens)Various plates of food including steak, a radicchio salad, roasted sweet potatoes, and French fries on a table at NYC restaurant Gus’s Chop HouseGus’s Chop House is a go-to destination for local families. | Photo credit: Gus’s Chop HouseGus’s is the kind of does-it-all place that’s just as great for an all-out celebration as it is for a weeknight dinner. That’s because chef and owner Chris McDade’s (Popina) menu has plenty of sophisticated steakhouse faves like lamb loin, wedge salad with leeks, and more. But the laid-back vibe, complete with black leather banquettes and spaced-out tables, makes this an inviting Carroll Gardens mainstay—it’s why families with babies always feel comfortable eating here, too. Book nowManhattan Afghan Kebab House (Upper East Side)New York has several solid Afghan restaurants, but Upper East Siders know to head to Afghan Kebab House for chef Izmir Rouzyi’s next-level kebabs and pilaus. The restaurant has more than half a dozen versions of the rice dish—arguably Afghanistan’s most famous delicacy. Consider getting an order with tender lamb or baby okra, and pair it with sizzling charcoal-grilled shrimp kebabs. Hot tip: BYOB is encouraged.Book now Atlas Kitchen (Upper West Side)The Upper West Side has one of the strongest Sichuanese food scenes in the city, but Atlas wins the most local hearts for its especially massive menu. Homesick Columbia University students and families pack the place for Kaiyuan Li’s cooking, which also includes dishes from his home region, Hunan. The move here is ordering everything to share—whole-steamed fish heads covered in red chiles, Sichuan-style sautéed pig trotters, and more—so you can do justice to all the regional Chinese hits.Book now Fonda (Chelsea, Park Slope, and Tribeca)An oval plate of mole with cilantro leaves and sesame seeds sprinkled on top at NYC restaurant FondaFonda’s vibe is so casual that it’s not uncommon to find neighbors dining in their sweats here. | Photo credit: FondaEven though this Mexican star expanded to new locations since opening in Park Slope in 2009, one thing remains the same: chef and owner Roberto Santibañez’s focus on running an unpretentious spot where locals feel comfortable dining in sweats. They can’t get enough of the rich Oaxacan mole, queso fundido with chorizo, and lamb birria—and the best part is knowing that lingering comfortably over a meal here is welcome.Book Fonda Chelsea Book Fonda Park Slope Book Fonda Tribeca Bhatti Indian Grill (Murray Hill)Manhattan’s South Asian community knows that Bhatti is a one-stop-shop for rich North Indian specialties like creamy dal and buttery kebabs. Silky smooth galouti kebabs, based on gold-standard versions from Tunde Mian in Lucknow, India, are the main attractions on chef Gaurav Anand’s (Moti Mahal Delux, Awadh) menu. Plus, Bhatti has a serious natural wine collection, busting the myth that only certain reds pair well with Indian food.Book now Melba’s (Harlem)Melba Wilson cooked at her aunt’s renowned Harlem soul-food restaurant Sylvia’s before opening her namesake spot in 2005. Wilson makes frequent appearances in the dining room, giving out hugs and walking through to check on how everyone’s doing. Plus, her top-notch cooking, including her TV-famous chicken and eggnog waffles has famous fans like Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.Book now Ivan Ramen (Lower East Side)A bowl of ramen with roasted tomatoes, an egg, and scallions at NYC restaurant Ivan RamenIvan Ramen marks 10 years in NYC this year. | Photo credit: Daniel KriegerLower East Siders have serious bragging rights: Their neighborhood ramen spot is run by Chef’s Table star Ivan Orkin, whose noodle knowledge is just as respected in Japan. Most ramen shops only do one style, but Orkin goes all out with six different broths and a broth-less mazemen. Regulars swear by the red chile ramen—a spicy, vibrant bowl of thin rye noodles, tender pork chashu, and smashed soft-boiled egg. Book now Mista Oh (Flatiron)Mistah Oh made a name for itself thanks to all the family firepower behind it. Mista, Mia, Holly, and Suby Oh, who all come from Busan, South Korea, make up the team of relatives at this fuss-free Flatiron gem. The homey vibe and Korean classics like galbijjim (braised short ribs), bibimbap, sundobu (soft tofu stew), and more are ideal for a relaxed meal with family or friends.Book now Rice x Beans (Hell’s Kitchen)NYC’s Brazilians know they can get a taste of home at Rice x Beans, an unassuming restaurant by chef and owner Carlos Roberto Inácio. Inácio recreates the dishes he grew up eating in Minas Gerais, Brazil, at the cozy Hell’s Kitchen spot, including cheesy pão de queijo and feijoada, or pork and black bean stew. But as the restaurant’s name suggests, nothing hits the spot like a plate of beans and rice, and that’s exactly what many New Yorkers keep coming back for.Book now Little Ruby’s Cafe (West Village)lA breakfast burrito on a white plate at NYC restaurant Little Ruby’sLittle Ruby’s Cafe has been an Australian staple in NYC since 2002. | Photo credit: Melissa HomFew NYC spots have perfected farm-fresh Australian food the way Thomas Lim and Tim Sykes’s Little Ruby’s Cafe has since it opened its first Nolita outpost in 2002. It now has three other locations, including a new West Village edition that’s the first to take reservations, and they all make excellent brunch spots. Make sure to get the breakfast burrito overflowing with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and tater tots, and wash it all down with a—what else?—flat white. Book now Sorsó (Union Square)For a rare escape by Union Square, make your way to Sorsó, a charming Italian wine bar. Sorsó —owned by famed photographer and entrepreneur Marcho Vacchi— is where locals come to unwind over prosecco, tuna crudo, and slow-cooked octopus with sundried tomatoes. Between 4 pm and 6 pm, you can score a glass of wine and bruschetta for $15, making it one of the best pre-dinner deals in the neighborhood.Book now Oda House (Upper East Side and Sheepshead Bay)The Georgian oval-shaped cheesy bread dish khachapuri on a wooden board at NYC restaurant Oda HouseCheesy khachapuri helped Oda House become a Georgian food favorite in NYC long before the dish became a viral sensation. | Photo credit: Oda HouseEven before khachapuri became a viral hit, Oda House was where locals broke bread together—literally—over the cheesy egg-topped Georgian dish. The original East Village location is now closed, but chef and owner Maia Acquaviva still pulls in plenty of old-timers to its Upper East Side and Sheepshead Bay locations. It’s because Oda House cranks out nearly 12 kinds of khachapuri and juicy khinkali (dumplings), to name just a few—and has a Georgian wine list that’s one of the best in the city. Book Oda House Upper East Side Book Oda House Sheepshead Bay Queens Blue Sea Taverna (Astoria)This Astoria mainstay was called Akrotiri Grill when it first opened in 2018, but recently renamed itself so that owner Chris Kouvaros could go all in on Greek seafood. That means dishes like htapodi (charcoal-grilled octopus) and lavraki (whole-grilled branzino) get their main-character moments, along with excellent new additions including tender-crisp seared scallops with creamy linguine. Book now The Bronx Da’ Franco & Tony’s Ristorante (Pelham Bay)Wear your stretchiest pants when you come to this old-school red-sauce joint by brothers Frank and Tony Hasanramaj. The Italian American food here is as hearty as it comes and draws an eclectic mix of nonnas, nonnos, and younger diners. Come extra-hungry for minestrone soup, homemade gnocchi in ragu, several types of parm, and much, much more.Book nowTried them all? Check out other options here.Tanay Warerkar is OpenTable’s NYC writer and a content marketing manager.Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner is a writer based in Brooklyn, where she lives with her wife and rescue dog. You can follow her on Instagram @melissabethk and Twitter @melissabethk

Washington, DC is known for its historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and world-class restaurants. And whether you want to escape the winter chill with a glass of whiskey inside a subterranean bar or post up at a historic, fireplace-filled Mediterranean gem, there are plenty of cozy restaurants in DC to choose from. Head to Georgetown for a cozy farm-to-table favorite known for hearty comfort foods. Visit an award-winning bar in Mount Vernon Square for innovative cocktails and one of the city’s best fried chicken sandwiches. Enjoy Mid-Atlantic-inspired dishes from a James Beard Award-winning chef at MICHELIN-Starred destination in Shaw.Book your seat at one of the best cozy restaurants in DC on OpenTable now.Read on for a guide to the top 10 cozy restaurants in DC.For MICHELIN-Starred Mid-Atlantic cuisine cooked over an open hearth – head to The Dabney (Shaw)A serving platter with sliced steak at the center surrounded by sides like grapes, sauces, vegetables, and more at The Dabney, one of the best cozy restaurants in DC, available on OpenTable.Expect bold, seasonal dishes with Mid-Atlantic influences at MICHELIN-Starred The Dabney. Credit: The DabneyOpen since 2015, MICHELIN-Starred The Dabney is where you go for bold, seasonal tasting menus with Mid-Atlantic influences from James Beard Award-winning chef Jeremiah Langhorne. Settle into the modern farmhouse space with a roaring open hearth for a feast of dishes that could include Maryland blue crab with black truffle and pork shoulder-stuffed squash. Bonus points for a rootsy soundtrack and warm service that make every meal here feel like dining in someone’s hip living room.For farm-to-table food in one of the best cozy restaurants in DC – check out Founding Farmers Fishers & Bakers DC (Georgetown)A dining room with dark wood tables and chairs and an alcove with comfy booths and warm lighting at Founding Farmers in Georgetown, one of the best cozy restaurants in DC, bookable via OpenTable.Founding Farmers is a DC favorite for its stellar farm-to-table menu. Credit: Founding Farmers Fishers & Bakers DCA longstanding DC favorite, Founding Farmers goes all in on crowd-pleasing American fare starring the very best ingredients sourced from top farmers and purveyors. Located on the Potomac River, the Georgetown outpost has an urban farmhouse vibe with dramatic archways, warm lamp lighting, and comfortable red booths—perfect for digging into standout dishes into hearty comfort fare like burgers, BBQ pork ribs, and chicken pot pie.For standout contemporary American dishes in a charming historic setting – visit Tabard Inn (Dupont Circle), one of the best cozy restaurants in Washington DCA cozy dining room with all wood furnishings, red velvet sofas with gold accents, and old art hanging on the walls at Tabard Inn, one of the best cozy restaurants in DC, found on OpenTable.Tabard Inn is known for its cozy, fireside lounge. Credit: Tabard InnOne of the best special occasion restaurants in DC, Tabard Inn is one of the District’s longest-running employee-owned hotels. The intimate, parlor-like setting complete with plush sofas and a fireside lounge makes every meal here a cozy and memorable one. Come for chef Matthew Zafrir’s elegant takes on contemporary American dishes that could include duck confit with Carolina gold rice or seared scallops with corn succotash; stay for rare whiskeys and live music on Sunday and Monday evenings.For elegant fine dining in the heart of Georgetown – head to 1789 Restaurant (Georgetown)A dining room with table settings with white tablecloths and small white lamps in front of a large fireplace surrounded by a green wall at 1789 Restaurant, available on OpenTable.1789 Restaurant is a Georgetown fine-dining gem known for its innovative American menu and intimate dining rooms with fireplaces. Credit: 1789 RestaurantLocated inside a historic Georgetown home, 1789 Restaurant goes all in on cozy design accents like roaring fireplaces, antiques, and crisp white tablecloths. It’s the perfect setting for chef Charles Kreiser’s refined menu of American dishes ranging from wagyu tartare to lamb bolognese and duck breast with foie gras dirty rice. If you’re drinking, don’t miss the stellar cocktails like an old fashioned made with butter-washed bourbon.For Mediterranean cuisine in a cozy venue – visit Iron Gate (Dupont Circle)A dining room with dark wood and brick walls, a fireplace, and red cushioned booths and chairs at Iron Gate, found on OpenTable.Iron Gate is set in a former carriage house and complete with a fireplace, pink banquettes, and vintage accents for days. Credit: Iron GateThis Italian and Greek favorite is set in a former carriage house and home to a cozy dining room with a fireplace, lanterns, and leather banquettes—perfect for digging into Mediterranean small plates and dishes like trumpet mushroom arancini and tagliatelle with pork ragu. Don’t miss the wisteria-clad courtyard, outfitted with fire pits for cooler evenings.For top-notch cocktails paired with upscale bar bites – check out Bar Pendry (Southwest Waterfront), one of the best cozy restaurants in DCA bar with dark wood furnishings and candles on the tables with plush booths and gold accents at Bar Pendry, one of the best cozy restaurants in DC, found on OpenTable.Bar Pendry is a stylish setting for enjoying elevated bar snacks and stellar cocktails. Credit: Bar PendryLocated inside the five-star Pendry hotel, this stylish lobby bar dials up the cozy factor with glam accents like dramatic velvet curtains, and dark wood galore. Cozy up at one of the sleek marble tables for a round of cocktails, premium whiskey flights, and fancy bar snacks like caviar deviled eggs. Don’t miss the “boozy tea menu,” complete with tea-infused cocktails like a vodka-based dirty chai paired with sweet and savory snacks.For innovative cocktails at an award-winning cocktail spot – visit Service Bar (Mount Vernon Square)A yellow cocktail with foam and sprinkled garnish on top sitting on a wooden table at Service Bar, one of the best cozy restaurants in DC that you can find on OpenTable.Cozy Service Bar is an industry favorite and one of the city’s top cocktail spots. Credit: Service BarOpen since 2016, Service Bar is known for innovative cocktails that have landed this neighborhood drinking den a coveted spot on North America’s 50 Best Bars list multiple years running. Sip on favorites like a tropical-inspired pisco punch and a celery-infused martini in the cozy, wood-paneled space beloved by industry insiders. Pair them with the fried chicken sandwich, one of the city’s best.For Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dishes at a family-owned favorite – visit LiLLiES Italian Restaurant & Bar (Woodley Park)A dining room with red walls and wooden floors and furnishings with candles on each table and warm lighting throughout at LiLLiES Italian Restaurant & Bar in DC, found on OpenTable.Elegant red wallpaper and wooden furnishings add to the cozy, old-school atmosphere at LiLLiES Italian Restaurant & Bar in Woodley Park. Credit: LiLLiES Italian Restaurant & BarLiLLiES Italian Restaurant & Bar serves up comforting Mediterranean- and Italian-inspired dishes using the very best regional ingredients—think chicken parm, roasted lamb shank, and lobster ravioli. With wooden furniture, elegant red wallpaper, and intimate tables add to the cozy atmosphere at this Woodley Park gem and DC date-night destination.For Southern-style bar snacks and one of the city’s deepest whiskey selections – check out Crimson Whiskey Bar (Mount Vernon Square)A seating area with red and brown cushioned couches and chairs around a table with taxidermy animals on the wall behind them at Crimson Whiskey Bar in Washington, DC, found on OpenTable.Crimson Whiskey Bar is a destination for its collection of over 300 whiskeys. Credit: Crimson Whiskey BarWith dark wood furnishings, lamp lighting at each table, and comfortable booths, this subterranean basement bar screams cozy. Choose from over 300 whiskeys by the glass and whiskey-forward cocktails like the classic paper plane. Pair them with Southern-style shared plates like oysters, smoked chicken wings, and crispy pork belly. Live music, DJs, and trivia nights add to Crimson Whiskey Bar’s always-lively yet cozy vibe.For French cuisine in an elegant atmosphere – check out L’Auberge Chez Francois (Great Falls)credit-lauberge-chez-francoisL’Auberge Chez Francois is a family-owned French gem in Great Falls. Credit L’Auberge Chez FrancoisAt family-run L’Auberge Chez Francois, expect elegant, traditional French fare inspired by founder François Haeringer’s Alsatian heritage. Filled with dark wooden accents, French murals, and family heirlooms, the historic Falls Church farmhouse is the ultimate cozy setting for a feast of favorites like escargots, duck foie gras, and an impressive strip steak with truffle sauce. Don’t miss the restaurant’s hot soufflé, best enjoyed by the roaring fireplace.When you’re looking to get cozy in DC, start with these must-visit restaurants. From an elegant French favorite with a roaring fireplace to a romantic, candlelit date-night spot to a lively subterranean bar, these top cozy restaurants in DC are some of the city’s best.Book your table at one of these cozy restaurants in DC on OpenTable as soon as possible.

Chicago is a vibrant, historic city filled with top-notch restaurants for an unforgettable night out with your whole crew. At these best restaurants for group dining in Chicago, you’ll dine on everything from high-end steaks to playful Indian street foods.Chicago’s neighborhoods offer memorable dining experiences for groups. The West Loop is home to a steakhouse with an Old Hollywood vibe and a Mediterranean spot with a great city view. Chinatown offers a DIY Korean barbecue experience, while West Town boasts large-format game dinners. Pilsen features one of the largest patios in the city. Each neighborhood has its own charm, waiting to be explored.Book your table at one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago on OpenTable today.Explore the top 10 best restaurants for group dining in Chicago.For signature Mediterranean dishes in a lush green space – head to Aba (West Loop)A large outdoor patio with light wood furnishings and plenty of foliage, couches, and cushioned chairs at Aba, one of the best restaurants for big groups in Chicago, bookable on OpenTable.Enjoy Mediterranean dishes with your group on the lush patio at Aba. Credit: AbaAba is where you go for a crowd-pleasing Mediterranean menu at one of Chicago’s most beautiful restaurants. Feast on CJ Jacobson’s made-for-sharing dishes like hummus served with warm housemade bread before moving on to mezze, kebabs, and standouts like chargrilled lamb chops in the spacious interior decked with large trees. Or spread out on the expansive rooftop patio, decked with potted plants and low-slung sofas—ideal for large groups.For a culinary journey inspired by the Silk Road, visit Bambola (West Loop)A top shot of a table setting containing an array of pasta, meat, and tortilla dishes with colorful plates and glasses of red wine atop a dark wood table at Bambola, one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago, found on OpenTable.Enjoy a hearty Italian meal at Bambola in the West Loop. Credit: BambolaBambola serves Italian-leaning cuisine with a twist—head chef Marcos Campos crafts a menu inspired by the flavors found all along the Silk Road from Italy to China. All items are made from scratch in the wood-fired kitchen. With ample space for large groups, the dining room with dark wood furnishings and vibrant tiles sets the stage for digging into gnocchi with pistachio pesto, carrots with date syrup glaze and baba ganoush, and other standout dishes.For an opulent steakhouse and one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago– visit BLVD Steakhouse (West Loop)Circular silver booths, chandeliers, and elegant place settings at BLVD Steakhouse in Chicago. Book on OpenTable.Opulent design touches like silver booths and glimmering chandeliers set the tone for elegant meals at this swanky steakhouse. Credit: BLVD SteakhouseBLVD Steakhouse is a swanky American steakhouse inspired by Hollywood’s famous Sunset Boulevard. Circular silver booths, glittering chandeliers hanging above the tables, and dark wood furnishings evoke the glamor of Old Hollywood. Celebrity chef Joe Flamm’s menu—think fresh oysters, tuna crudo, impressive wagus, and more—is equally elegant. Enjoy them in one of the restaurant’s cozy booths or spread out on the lush garden patio.For a DIY meat extravaganza, check out Daebak Korean BBQ (Chinatown)A table setting featuring a steel grill at the center surrounded by bowls and plates of fresh vegetables and sausages ready to be cooked at Daebak Korean BBQ, one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago found on OpenTable.Indulge in a Korean BBQ meal cooked right at your table at Daebak Korean BBQ. Credit: Daebak Korean BBQOne of the best restaurants in Chicago’s Chinatown, always-lively Daebak Korean BBQ is where you go for a celebration of all things meat. Looped K-pop videos create a festive atmosphere—ideal for group gatherings and everyday celebrations. So do attentive servers cooking signature dishes like thinly sliced brisket and other premium meats over tabletop grills. Pro tip: order the kimchi pancake along with a glass of soju.For American cuisine in a hunting lodge-like setting at one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago – visit Frontier (West Town)A dining area featuring a stone fireplace in the corner with dark brown leather couches and traditional American hunting decor on the walls at Frontier, one of the best Chicago restaurants good for groups available on OpenTable.Settle in by the cozy fireplace at lodge-inspired Frontier. Credit: FrontierAt cozy Chicago favorite Frontier, chef Brian Jupiter serves up the ultimate comfort foods with a Louisiana twist and seasonal ingredients. Share oysters or fried gator bites before moving on to group-friendly, meat-centric platters like the “farm and turf” and hearty, family-style sides like barbecued boar mac and cheese. Enjoy it all in a hunting lodge-like setting with cozy wooden furniture and a warming fireplace.For artisanal pizzas and comforting Italian American food – head to Labriola (Gold Coast/Streeterville)A bowl of fresh pasta topped with parmesan shavings and parsley garnish with a blue rim atop a wooden table at Labriola in Chicago that you can find on OpenTable.Dig into hearty Italian American fare at Labriola. Credit: LabriolaBaker extraordinaire Rich Labriola’s namesake Italian spot is where you go for top-notch homemade pizzas and pastas. Dig into Chicago deep dish and artisanal crust pizzas, plus a variety of shareable Italian plates like toasted ravioli, bruschetta and meatballs rounding out the menu. The cozy, Italian American atmosphere with warm lighting and dark wood furnishing is ideal for large groups.For Latin street food in a music-driven atmosphere in one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago – visit Pilsen Yards (Pilsen)A bowl of fresh red onions, avocado, peppers, and shrimp at Pilsen Yards, one of the best Chicago restaurants for large groups, bookable via OpenTable.Enjoy fresh ceviche and other Latin-inspired street foods at Pilsen Yards. Credit: Pilsen YardsPilsen Yards is a destination for its lively, open-air vibe and chef Juan Carlos Gutierrez’s stellar Latin-inspired street food. With a wraparound bar at the center surrounded by comfy booths, you can enjoy everything from tacos and ceviche to hummus and salads. The drink list is curated by beverage director Lance Bowman and includes top-shelf mezcals and other playful drinks to fuel your large celebrations. It’s also home to one of Chicago’s largest patios, making it great for large groups.For regional Italian specialties paired with pitch-perfect wines – check out Quartino (River North)A table setting with plates of pizza, pasta, meat dishes, charcuterie, paninis, and salads at Quartino in Chicago, bookable on OpenTable.Dig into standout pizzas and pastas at Quartino. Credit: QuartinoQuartino is known for its top-notch homemade pizzas and regional Italian specialties like Neapolitan pizzas, Tuscan soups, and artisan salumi. The generous portion sizes make this a great spot to bring your entire group. The sociable staff is happy to accommodate large groups in the relaxed atmosphere with light wood furnishings and a cheese fridge, but order ahead for parties of 20 or larger. Pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s stellar Italian wines.For Southern comfort foods in a lively space – head to Yardbird Table & Bar (River North)A plate setting containing golden waffles next to a gold metal basket shaped like a chicken containing pieces of fried chicken at Yardbird Table & Bar, one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago, found on OpenTable.Enjoy Southern comfort foods like chicken and waffles at Yardbird Table & Bar. Credit: Yardbird Table & BarMiami import Yardbird Table & Bar is beloved for its crowd-pleasing Southern comfort foods—think juicy fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, collard greens, and cornbread. Pair your meal with one of the restaurant’s bourbon tastings or a seasonal, whiskey-forward cocktail. Enjoy all this and more in the spacious dining room with a central bar.For playful Indian street food one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago—visit Bar Goa (River North)A dining room with wood furnishing and vibrant patterns on the walls with a bright blue bar on the right side at Bar Goa in Chicago, available on OpenTable.Bar Goa’s dining room goes all in on tropical vibes. Credit: Bar GoaBar Goa is a lively cocktail lounge from the acclaimed ROOP team. The menu goes all in on playful Portuguese-Indian mashups like chicken cafreal stew and prawn and chorizo fried rice. Dressed with bright colors and foliage, the tropical-themed dining room transports you to the beach, complete with an electronic music soundtrack and pitchers of mango sangria for the whole crew.Large groups searching for a place to dine in Chicago have plenty of options. Whether you’re looking for a large patio space, a lively bar, or a swanky steakhouse for a large celebratory dinner, there’s a restaurant in Chicago for you.Book a table at one of the best restaurants for group dining in Chicago on OpenTable as soon as you can.

From a California-meets-Mediterranean fusion spot known for its movie screenings to a historic grill with elegant private dining rooms, the best restaurants for big groups in SF have space for the whole crew and every type of celebration.Dine on fine Cantonese cuisine in a swanky room with antique furnishings in Chinatown, or spread out in a large booth at a luxury steakhouse in Mission Bay. Enjoy the sunset from a chic terrace at a Peruvian restaurant in the Financial District.Whether dining with a group of six or over 100, you can find a restaurant in San Francisco with space for everyone—plus food to impress the whole group.Book a table at one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF on OpenTable today and ensure a memorable group dining experience.Read on for a guide to 10 of the best restaurants in San Francisco for big groups.For ceviche and other Peruvian dishes with waterfront views – visit La Mar Cocina Peruana (Financial District/Embarcadero)A wood tray with cutouts holds three tacos with raw tuna, avocado, and roe at La Mar Cocina Peruana, one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF on OpenTable.Try ceviche, tacos, and other dishes made with fresh seafood at La Mar Cocina Peruana. Credit: Le Mar Cocina PeruanaLed by celebrity chef Gastón Acurio, La Mar Cocina Peruana serves stellar ceviche and classic Peruvian dishes like tiraditos and richly layered causas in a lively space. Made-for-sharing favorites like bandeja cevichera—a feast of four signature ceviche—make it one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF and a popular spot for holiday gatherings. Enjoy waterfront views while you dine under a heat lamp on the patio, or relax in the chic, blue-accented interior.For Asian-inspired small bites and cocktails with killer views – book a table at Charmaine’s Rooftop Lounge (Downtown/Union Square)A rooftop terrace with views of San Francisco’s skyline at night at Charmaine’s Rooftop Lounge, one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF.Experience the city at night from The Point at Charmaine’s Rooftop Lounge. Credit: Charmaine’s Rooftop LoungeLocated in the Proper Hotel, Charmaine’s Rooftop Lounge is one of the best rooftop restaurants in San Francisco. Spread out with a group in the low-slung striped chairs ringing cozy fire pits to sip on standout cocktails from Bon Vivants Hospitality (Trick Dog), including several zero-proof options. Snacks—think lemongrass chicken wings, skewers, and dips—are made for sharing. Come at sunset for sweeping city views, and don’t miss the weekday 7@7 Happy Hour for food and drink specials.For fine Cantonese dining in a historic space in one of the best restaurants in San Francisco for big groups – visit The Empress by Boon (Chinatown)The dining room with contemporary Asian décor and blue accents at The Empress by Boon in San Francisco, a restaurant available on OpenTable.The opulent dining room at The Empress by Boon sets the stage for elegant Cantonese dishes. Credit: The Empress by BoonIf you’re celebrating a special occasion or seeking an opulent setting for a group meal, The Empress by Boon impresses with geometric screens, royal blue sofas, and skyline views. Come to one of the most beautiful restaurants in San Francisco for acclaimed chef Ho Chee Boon’s elegant, five-course prix fixe menu with decadent, Cantonese-inspired hits like a scallop and caviar roll. For private dining, choose the Empress room, which seats up to 20 guests.For top-quality beef and seafood at an upscale steakhouse – enjoy a meal at Miller & Lux (Mission Bay/South Beach)A dining room with C-shaped leather booths, dim lighting, and vintage chandeliers at Miller & Lux, one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF, on OpenTable.Tuck into one of the leather booths at Miller & Lux and enjoy a meal of top-quality steak. Credit: Miller & LuxLed by chef Tyler Florence, Miller & Lux is a sophisticated steakhouse with vintage accents in Chase Center. Don’t be fooled by the location—this restaurant is designed for formal occasions or a splurge-worthy meal before watching the Warriors. Select high-quality, dry-aged steaks sourced from ranches across the country, or enjoy premium seafood from the raw bar. With over 70 bottles of fine wine and a spacious, C-shaped leather booth, sharing a meal with a large group is easy at Miller & Lux.For Mediterranean dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients in one of the best restaurants in San Francisco for big groups — grab a table at Taksim (SOMA)A white plate holds a lamb shank surrounded by cannoli beans and sun-dried tomatoes at Taksim, one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF on OpenTable.Dishes from Taksim’s evolving seasonal menu are inspired by Turkey and the Balkans. Credit: TaksimSourcing recipes and culinary techniques from Turkey and the Balkans, Taksim is where you go for familiar favorites and creative takes on Mediterranean dishes. Think lamb chops with smokey eggplant labneh, beef tenderloin shish kebab, or olive-crusted lamb carpaccio. For groups of 10 or more, the restaurant can arrange private or semi-private dining and personalized menus in one of five spaces. Expect an industrial-chic ambiance with exposed wooden beams, metal detailing, and warm wooden accents.For seafood specialties at the oldest restaurant in San Francisco — try The Old Clam House (Mission Bay/South Beach)The vintage dining room with checkered floors, nautical antiques, and framed photos on the walls at The Old Clam House, a restaurant available on OpenTable in San Francisco.The oldest restaurant in San Francisco, The Old Clam House dials up the antique charm. Credit: The Old Clam HouseBring a group of friends or the whole family to The Old Clam House. Open since 1861, the city’s oldest restaurant serves up crowd-pleasing seafood favorites like creamy clam chowder and fragrant cioppino. Enjoy them in a vintage dining room—think red-and-white-checked tablecloths and walls lined with historical photos and nautical antiques. No meal here is complete without a warming glass of clam juice.For premium steaks and historic, private dining rooms — find a table at Historic John’s Grill (Downtown/Union Square)A historic dining room with high ceilings, circular tables, and two black and white portraits on the wall at Historic John’s Grill, one of the best restaurants in San Francisco for large groups on OpenTable.Historic John’s Grill is a top SF destination for group dinners. Credit: Historic John’s GrillHistoric John’s Grill has been a celebrity and local favorite since opening in 1908. The interior boasts big, circular tables ideal for large groups, and black-and-white photos deck the walls. Expect high-end, American steakhouse fare ranging from filet mignon and New York steak to lobster ravioli. The restaurant also has three elegantly appointed private rooms for groups ranging in size from 14 to 100 seated guests.For vegetarian food with incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge – reserve a table at Greens Restaurant (Marina Cow Hollow/Presidio)Boats and the Golden Gate Bridge can be seen through a window at Greens Restaurant in San Francisco on OpenTable.Get prime views of the Golden Gate Bridge from the bright and airy dining room at Greens Restaurant. Credit: Greens RestaurantWoman-led Greens Restaurant is where you go for stellar, vegetarian and vegan dishes prepared with seasonal, local produce from organic farms. The airy dining room boasts plenty of space for group dining and uninterrupted views of the Golden Gate Bridge through the floor-to-ceiling windows. You can also book one of three small spaces for private events. Although the menu changes seasonally, expect clever plant-forward dishes like eggplant pizza and grilled cabbage shawarma.For a business lunch or dinner in an upscale French bistro – try La Société Bar & Café (SOMA)A plate of oysters with two different sauces at La Société Bar & Café, one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF on OpenTable.Oysters are one of the specialties at La Société Bar & Café. Credit: La Société Bar & CaféCharming neighborhood bistro La Société Bar & Café is a destination for its French brasserie classics with a California twist. With cozy banquettes and a statement wall of colorful modern paintings, the space has a contemporary, laid-back feel. Book a large table in the dining area or reserve a private room for your party. Try the salt spring mussels or savor the pommes frites made with duck fat paired with a glass of red.For Mediterranean food with a California twist and a movie – enjoy a meal at Foreign Cinema (Mission District)A patio with an Old Hollywood movie projected on the wall and string lights at Foreign Cinema, one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF, on OpenTable.Watch a movie on the Foreign Cinema outdoor patio after dusk. Credit: Foreign CinemaCombine dinner and a show with friends into one activity at Foreign Cinema. Open since 1999, this concept restaurant shows independent and classic films once the sun goes down, and the Mediterranean-California fusion menu is just as enchanting as the setting. Must-try dishes include five-spice duck and sirloin beef carpaccio paired with a regional wines. The restaurant also has private areas for parties ranging from 12 to 60 guests.From Peruvian ceviche with just enough tang to top-tier steaks, the best restaurants for big groups in SF have something for every occasion and meal preference.Dine on cioppino at the oldest restaurant in San Francisco, or customize your menu in a private room at a Mediterranean restaurant. Visit a contemporary French bistro with work colleagues or take your extended family to a fine-dining Cantonese restaurant. Regardless of your party’s size, a restaurant in San Francisco is waiting to host your group.Book a table today at one of the best restaurants for big groups in SF on OpenTable.