664363 Tue Nov 03 09:12:17 -0800 2009 4 19 Outer Boroughs 0 5152025 --for 40 people --nice but not overwhelmingly fancy--ie not necessarily river cafe-- --birthday "girl" would ideally prefer buffet of bagels, french toast etc --but we'd love a nice place, good view, etc any suggestions??? Tue Nov 03 09:12:17 -0800 2009 1121384 cwaxler 1 5152277 I've been to a brunch buffet at Archives (the restaurant in the Brooklyn Bridge Marriott)--it was lovely, and they can cordon off as much of the dining room as you need. I assume they are still doing it--my friend who hosted her son's wedding reception there found them easy to work with. Tue Nov 03 10:19:48 -0800 2009 5152025 10292 Marion Morgenthal 2 5152348 thanks! Tue Nov 03 10:38:34 -0800 2009 5152277 1121384 cwaxler 1 5152669 I hate to say it, because this place drives me up the wall, but you should check out Bubby's in Dumbo. Great view of the bridges and the East River, and they can accommodate a party that size upstairs without even disrupting their regular service. Tue Nov 03 12:14:55 -0800 2009 5152025 1111129 chorosch 2 5152869 iCi has a private room upstairs that I'm sure could handle your group, assuming all of the guests can climb a flight of stairs. The food is locally sourced and very good, but not too fancy.(Note if your interested, check if they have a restroom upstairs, so guests don't have to go up and down to use the facilities). Pacificana, the Cantonese restaurant in Sunset Park can handle groups that size (although Sunday brunch might be a problem as they do Dim Sum. Very modern and clean without being fancy. And most people can find something they enjoy on a Cantonese menu. Upstairs but with an elevator and a garage (for a fee) in the building, so it can be very convenient. Tue Nov 03 13:09:59 -0800 2009 5152669 12428 bobjbkln