147626 Thu Apr 08 15:59:01 -0700 2004 5 12 Boston Area 0 791349 Hi, I'm planning a 30th birthday dinner for fifteen people and I'm trying to decide between Fugakyu (Brookline) and Ginza (Chinatown). I know there are better places in town (Oishii, etc.), but these two seem best suited for a large crowd. There was a thread two years ago on this topic (http://www.chowhound.com/newengland/boards/boston3/messages/9857.html) -- I was wondering if anyone has some updated thoughts on the two restaurants. Also, other recommendations would be welcome, just please keep in mind that I'd prefer to dine in Boston/Brookline/Cambridge. Thu Apr 08 15:59:01 -0700 2004 0 sadotter 1 791355 Fugakyu has better food and atmosphere, more diverse menu (plus it was recently expanded), Kimoto honjyozo sake, valet parking in case you need it, and private tatami rooms (with leg wells for those who aren't comfortable kneeling; be sure to remind your guests to wear fresh socks ;). You can even reserve a room with projector facilities, for those who like to watch while they eat. Thu Apr 08 16:41:23 -0700 2004 791349 0 barleywino 2 791356 YOu can probably even pick up a birthday cake down the street at the Japonaise bakery (on Beacon). Thu Apr 08 16:57:53 -0700 2004 791355 0 barleywino 1 791358 I was just at Fugakyu for my own birthday last weekend, and was once again extremely pleased with the food and the whole experience. I've never been there with a group as large as yours, myself, but they've certainly got the space for it. Ginza is good too, but I'll admit that I've basically dropped it from my regular sushi rotation in favor of Tsunami (in Brookline) and Suishaya (in Chinatown). But you wouldn't want to take 15 people to either of those places, and Fugakyu is more festive than either of them, anyway. Thu Apr 08 17:10:24 -0700 2004 791349 0 glenn 1 791365 big price difference. fugakyu is better quality, but you are going to pay for it. i think it is that simple. Thu Apr 08 20:42:59 -0700 2004 791349 0 nomadfromcincy 1 791407 Thanks for the info, hounds, but as it turns out I can't get a table at Fugakyu, so Ginza it is. Fri Apr 09 14:00:26 -0700 2004 791349 0 sadotter