Happy Birthday to Me ;)

[rdstargrl]

So, I have decided to plan a last minute birthday celebration for next Saturday.
I am trying to figure out where to host it. I wouild like to find a place that I could have about 10 or so people meet for food and drinks. I would also like to follow up dinner with some drinks at a place where we are not screaming to try and speak to each other, but is also lively.
A Fondue place would be awesome. Maybe something along the lines of the melting pot but not necessarily a chain! Is Buca Di Beppo totally cheesy?
Thanks in advance hounds~

[rdstargrl]

Gonna check out Osha Thai on Valencia. After reading so many mixed revews on the mentioned places. I have been to the Osha on 2nd. and enjoyed it very much. Plus I figure, if we are in the mission, there will be plenty bars to walk to after dinner. Hopefully it will all work out ;)

[oaktowngirl]

The shabu shabu idea is a good one. Juban in the mall in Japantown is good food, nice decor and centrally located. (Paid parking available in the underground garage.)

[rdstargrl]

So far, this place seems to be the best to accommodate a big group and is nicely centrally located! Thanks for the recommendation

[Carrie 218]

Juban is NOT shabu-shabu -- it is Yakiniku (BBQ, similar to the Korean-style where you grill the meat in the middle of the table). It is expensive for what you get.

[liujenny]

If you want shabu shabu, I think Mums in Hotel Tomo is a pretty good choice given that you make a reservation in advance. They have all-you-can-eat for $23.95 per person, and if you want to make it extra festive, you can go for the all-you-can-eat PLUS all-you-can-drink (including house sake, hot or cold, beers like sapporo and asahi as well as soft drinks) for $39.95. I somehow had an impression that they didn't have all you can eat on weekends, but then it's not mentioned on the website, so perhaps I'm wrong.

http://mumssf.com/

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Cafe Mums
1800 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA

[rdstargrl]

I'm looking for any place that is good for a big party. And that has good chicken and vegi dishes! And great deserts!

[Carrie 218]

*I* think Buca di Beppo is beyond cheesy and into the realm of Chef Boyardee bad. You live in a city with exceptional Italian food and would consider a chain like this? For shame...

I'm afraid I have no knowledge of any decent fondue places, but would you consider Shabu Shabu? That is sort of Japanese fondue. Another thought would be Korean BBQ (I like Brother's on Geary) where everyone can cook their own food.

[rdstargrl]

Thanks, I am looking into some Shabu Shabu places. I was ONLY thinking Buca because of the party atmosphere. I have been to 2 locations (for birthdays) in Los Angeles (Universal City Walk and the one in Claremont, CA) and it was pretty good. The desert there is awesome! My parents love that place~
I just need to make sure I can accommodate a big group!
I have only been in the city for over a year, and I have not come accross any exceptional Italian or mexican food! If you have any tips, PLEASE ADVISE ;)