638947 Thu Jul 23 14:08:15 -0700 2009 4 18 Manhattan 0 4884971 Looking for a nice dinner spot that is large enough to comfortably accommodate a group of 8 and will not explode the budget. Any neighborhood would work and cuisine should be french/italian/new american, etc... While I say second tier, I simply mean below that of Le Bernardin, Daniel, etc... So, it can still be nice, but perhaps entrees under $35 or pre-fixe<$70 Thoughts? We have been to most of the usual suspects (gramercy tavern, union square cafe, EMP, etc...). I tentatively have a reservation at Aldea, but I am afraid this place will be too small. Thu Jul 23 14:08:15 -0700 2009 45101 rw2157 1 4884995 Although Aldea's space is not huge, it can accommodate a group of 8. Most importantly, the food is delicious and prices are a steal! Another excellent "second-tier" restaurant is Allegretti. In addition to the a la carte menu, they offer a 3-course dinner prix fixe for $39. Superb cuisine, excellent service, and lovely ambiance. No problem at all fitting a group of 8. http://www.allegrettinyc.com Thu Jul 23 14:15:09 -0700 2009 4884971 13867 RGR 1 4886009 Aldea is great. I have not been to Allegretti, but it sounds good as well. I would also consider Harbour, Locanda Verde (more casual and lower-priced but fabulous food), Bar Blanc, and Olana (very comfortable and can easily accommodate large parties). Thu Jul 23 20:41:50 -0700 2009 4884971 126803 rrems 1 4887880 How about Balthazar or Pastis? Fri Jul 24 12:41:00 -0700 2009 4884971 252331 eameyer 1 4888066 I had a great meal at Apiary about two months ago. Entrees around mid $20's. It was fairly noisy on a Saturday so a group of 8 wouldn't feel out of place. Fri Jul 24 13:44:22 -0700 2009 4884971 1095093 ella_minnow