Dinner for 15 not too far from UPenn

[gateway girl]

We are meeting a group of people (parents and 25 year old sons) for an event at UPenn and want to go to dinner afterwards. Any suggestions? We've been to Pod the last four years and want to try something different. Thanks.

[somervilleoldtimer]

The White Dog? You'd have to make a reservation.

[sylviag]

We very much like Nan, at 40th and Chestnut. French/Thai - excellent food, good varied menu.
byob.

[cwdonald]

Distrito.. upscale mexican in a casual atmosphere.

[Philly Ray]

My only hesitation for Distrito is that I am not a fan of small plates restaurants for large groups. Some people might not want to share and even if they do, it is tough to share with that many people and actually get a good taste of the dish.

[Boognish]

I've seen Distrito handle large groups by serving platters of food where everyone can eat family style. We sent several parties there last year with great success. They've also catered a few events for us. Just an fyi.

[Philly Ray]

Well, that's different. I was at Chifa with only 4 people and I really didn't want to share my pork belly buns because I only got a bite of half a bun.

[Boognish]

Yeah, I didn't orchestrate the events and was a little hesitant about it, but they seemed to pull everything off well for our relatively large group. IIRC, you actually have to coordinate the event through Garces Restaurant Group as opposed to the actual restaurant.

[barryg]

If everyone orders the tasting menu they will do a good job making sure everyone gets a good taste of everything. If you order a la carte you can run into issues for sure.

[gateway girl]

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions. I'll report in on where we go.

[urbanfabric]

I'd recommend JG Domestic, they have a small room that might accommodate your group. Otherwise, it's a big place, so I suspect they could create space for you.

[rabidog]

if you called ahead i'd bet gojjo could accommodate. it's ethiopian, very reasonably priced, decent bottled beer selection, and i just love stuffing my face there with a group. we usually order in platter form, always extra extra extra shiro wot (pureed spiced lentils). :) the bar takes up most of the place, but the dining room in the back is often nearly empty if not entirely. i don't understand the lack of crowds - i adore that place!!!

also, vietnam cafe's expansion probably makes it a decent option for your group... the place is huge. i've only been for lunch, not sure about dinner crowds.

both places are on baltimore ave a little west of upenn.

http://www.eatatvietnam.com/vietnam_cafe.php
http://www.ethiopianrestaurant.com/pe...