50th Birthday Party for 40

[AlwaysUpperWest]

Looking for a restaurant to throw a 50th birthday party for a friend. Her husband has no clue, but wants something nice. He says he's thinking about 40-50 people coming in - many from Westchester or Long Island.

Food palates will range from beginner to (oh, let's just say) advanced intermediate. Doesn't need to be (and shouldn't be) super trendy, but no Ruby Foo's!

I suggested Cafe Boulud and The Modern. Any thoughts from Chow?

Oh - right - the party NEEDS to be Saturday, December 6. Adds to the fun, right???

Thanks!

[RGR]

If you're looking for a private room -- which would make sense considering there will be 40-50 people -- Cafe Boulud is out because they don't have one.

The Modern does have a private room which can accommodate a group that size. The cuisine might be a bit "advanced" for the beginner palate.

http://www.themodernnyc.com/modern/modern.html

Eleven Madison Park has two private rooms upstairs that can be combined to accommodate 50. We've dined there with people who are not the most adventurous eaters, and they've enjoyed the food.

http://www.elevenmadisonpark.com

[AlwaysUpperWest]

Thanks! Acutally, they've booked the party at Bar Boulud - the new restaurant on the UWS. The y actually have 3 private rooms. They booked the "Caviste" room - holds up to 70 people.

I guess once they're done with the expansion, there may be even more room.