Question for Metrobloggers: private dining in DC?
This question has come up several times for me over the past year, and again recently: if you want to host a private dinner in DC, where do you call? A couple requirements:
- “Banquet rooms” that hold large numbers (min. 20 ppl) don’t count.
- “Private” demands privacy. For instance, the alcove at the Oval Room with a curtain that can be drawn doesn’t count.
- It would be nice to identify a couple at different price points. It tends to be easy if you’re looking at spending $70-$100/person, but who’s got that kind of scratch?
If enough spots are identified - it’d be great to create a reference list for the future. You may only need one such venue per year, but it can be a total pain if there’s no good place to look if you’re not a professional meeting planner. Speaking of which - I did find this list (pdf) but it tends to cater to the catering customer.
Related posts:
When you say “host a private dinner” but you don’t mean a banquet hall, what’s the actual range of people you’re thinking of?
Let’s call it anywhere from 8-15. Basically, one or two tables of guests.
I believe the Fillmore Room at the Boulevard Woodgrill can be private, with doors shut, and opened only for service.
that’s a pretty comprehensive list you already have. you had two of my suggestions already.
i can add to his by noting the JW Marriott on Pennsylvania has a private dining room (I think they refer to it as a wine cellar) between their 1331 lounge and avenue grill.
The wine room at Galileo seats up to 16 or so.
Try Urbana @ Hotel Palomar and Poste @ Hotel Monaco.
Smith and Wollensky, Mr. K’s, Mortons, Daily Grill, David Greggory (little larger party).
Acadiana has a back room that can apparently be partitioned into two rooms, one of which looks like a 8-25 capacity.
There is a room at Zola’s that can be closed off and fits about 15 people. There is a smaller room at Poste (very cool) and also one at the Oval Room
I am absolutely thrilled to recommend Harry’s Essential Grille at 8521 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA 22182
For a private party call 703.752.2693 and ask to speak with Chef William Conway. The room seated 22 very comfortably - but a party as small as 10 would not be lost in the room, and you might be able to go to as many as 30.
My husband and I selected from the standard menu - two appetizers, three salad options, four entree selections, and four desserts - they printed a menu and our guests individualized their orders.
Food was fantastic, service and presentation excellent. . . and all for about $40 a person
Call Chef Conway today!!