thanks everyone - we did end up going to paladar and had a great time. We got served family style with three dishes for nine people - I was still hungry!
I second Sticky Rice for a big inexpensive party. I went for the first time recently and was surprised at how nice the restaurant looked for such inexpensive food. Plus, it's BYOB, wheee
Congee Village is also a cheaper alternative. They have 'authentic' Chinese dishes. Some of the stuff is really out there (frog, rabbit) but the typical dishes are really good. They have a good drink menu and the decor is cool.
that's so funny. I was going to suggest Paladar as well. They have an area in the back that would be perfect to seat 10. I haven't had a bad time there yet.