Looking for an upscale restaurant for 8 to celebrate a 60th Birthday

[pamelar]

I"m looking for a place for dinner for 8 people ( wide age range ) for a 60th birthday celebration in October. We'd like, American, French, Italian, or Seafood. We'd prefer a restaurant that has round tables since I think for larger group it works better. We'd like a place that is not too noisy, beautiful space, good service and of course great food. The location can be anywhere in Manhattan. We've been thinking about Gotham Bar and Grill, Babbo, Le Bernardin, Del Posto?
I'm not sure if they're all in a similar price range. This is not a large wine drinking crowd, perhaps at best 1.5 glasses each. We'd like to be within $85-110 for food.. I'd love some suggestions if any of the above standout or we welcome other places as well.

[ChefJune]

My personal favorites (and I'm in *that* age range) would be Gramercy Tavern, Blue Hill (New York) or Tocqueville.

And if your party is likely to drink "1 1/2 glasses each" of wine, ordering two bottles will not only be more festive, it will serve your whole group with better quality wines at a lower price point.

[pamelar]

Thanks for the feedback. We've all been to Gramercy Tavern and Blue Hill so I'm going to look into Tocqueville.

[ellenost]

Just had a lovely dinner tonight at Tocqueville. Don't believe they have round tables for eight. I did see 2 round tables of 6 that did seem tight. The food and service were excellent. It would be best for you to contact the restaurant.

[fm1963]

I think Del Posto only has two multi-course dinner options at $115 and $145, but call to confirm.

Lincoln has tables large enough for your party and would also fall within your budget. The food is very good and the noise level isn't overbearing.

Ai Fiori might be another option. I've seen round tables there which I think can accommodate eight people.

[ellenost]

You should consider Bouley: excellent French food, beautiful decor, and attentive service. I celebrate all of my birthdays at Bouley. They've recently revamped their website, and it has their current menus. Bouley has long (12+ years) been one of my most favorite restaurants anywhere. Bouley has large round tables that would accommodate your party. The "a la carte" menu at dinner would work for your budget. Bouley also offers a $55 multi-course tasting menu at lunch.

[kathryn]

Babbo cannot handle parties larger than 6.

Del Posto imposes the 5 or 7 course menu on parties larger than 4. So $115pp minimum, before tax, tip, wine and drinks.

Le Bernardin is prix fixe or tasting for dinner. Their dinner prix fixe is $125pp, over your budget.

[pamelar]

Thanks. How about Gotham Bar and Grill or any other suggestions?