Your special day is coming, and you’re excited to party. But when it comes time to pick a restaurant, the options can be overwhelming. In fact, there are nearly 700,000 restaurants to choose from in the United States.
For a big party and events, the right restaurant can be the difference between an unforgettable night and a disaster.
There’s no need to panic. We’ve got your back. Here are some simple tips for picking the perfect restaurant for your party.
First Things First: Plan for the Ideal Experience
Before a party planner decides to pick a restaurant, it’s a must to nail down priorities. Think about how many people will attend the party. You don’t want to show up to your dream location only to find out there’s not enough room for your party.
Consider dietary restrictions and what your perfect menu would look like. And try to match the tastes of your attendees to the restaurant you pick.
These things will make guests more comfortable. And that will boost the level of fun at your party.
Once you have the specifics in hand, here are the best things to consider when comparing restaurants.
Location Should Be at the Center of Your Choice
What good is a party if nobody can get to it? Before you pick a restaurant, figure out what area will work best for everyone at the party.
If people are traveling from out of town or don’t have a vehicle, consider how connected a restaurant is to public transportation. The more accessible a restaurant is, the more likely it will be that the whole group shows up.
Location can also provide a glimpse into how busy the venue might be on the big night.
Pick a Restaurant with the Right Feel
A restaurant’s ambiance can make or break a party. If the group plans to get rowdy, a fine dining atmosphere may put a damper on things.
At the same time, if guests want to have deep conversations, a place that blasts music could put people off. And if party-goers hope to dance, it’s wise to pick a party venue with a dance floor or DJ.
The restaurant’s size can also have a big impact on its feel. It could be the difference between feeling crowded and having fun, intimate interactions.
On the other hand, an empty, cavernous room might trample the mood.
If the weather is nice, guests might enjoy a place with outdoor party seating or a solid indoor view.
Evaluate the Restaurant’s Value
Before you pick a restaurant, think of what attendees might value.
For instance, if someone values quality wine and refined tastes, a restaurant would be much better than a local pub.
At the same time, if guests are on a budget, it’s smart to check out menus beforehand to get a feel for prices. And value can go well beyond costs. Consider the quality of service at party venues.
If you have a large group, it’s important to investigate how well the restaurant can accommodate the crew.
Keep the Party Going
These tips will get you rolling towards party fun. But after you pick a restaurant, there is still plenty to plan.
Check out our blog here for insider advice about celebrations and parties.