Ciano or SD26 or something better (hopefully)!!!

[Farfalle]

What do you all think. I could really use a recommendation for something different too because I am not really sold on either spot. Here are the particulars:

Group of 10
Somewhere with an upbeat vibe
Great food, preferably Italian, American or French but would consider others.
North of Houston street
$150/pp budget for food, tax and tip and a couple of cocktails. .

My first choice was the Nomad, but they are closed for a private event that night. Any suggestions would be great.

Thanks

[roze]

Agree with both Union Square Cafe and Maialino. I know Maialino has a gorgeous room for big parties that might be perfect .

[Spiritchaser]

Either of your choices would be fine, Ciano has great food but I'm not crazy about the service (too rushed/haphazard), SD26, love the salumi/cheese platters they can put together (always great for groups). But add these other possibilities to your list: A Voce (Madison) based upon a great meal we just had there and Ai Fiori (they handle good size groups there all the time) wonderful food.

[erica]

ABC Kitchen? You could ask for the room to the rear of the main dining room. They also have large round tables in the main room--I think these could fit 10.

[barberinibee]

Maialino? Place to go for cocktails is next door in the hotel. I like Junoon too and their cocktails are delicious.

[intrepid3591]

vice versa west 51 st

[rrems]

Why are you not sold on these two? I think they are fine choices. How far in advance is this? I would add Annisa to the list but they book up far in advance and a party that size will require a big table. For something different, if upscale Indian would be of interest I highly recommend Junoon.

[peter j]

Union Square Cafe is now accepting reservations for large groups.
http://dinersjournal.blogs.nytimes.co...