The best private dining rooms in New York City

A London import, Hawksmoor did pretty well across the pond. Whilst we can't say the thought of British (read: beige) food normally gets us excited, this is different. Holed up in the historic United Charities Building, steps from Gramercy Park, Hawksmoor has certainly arrived in style.

The essence of Hawksmoor lies in its commitment to sourcing all-natural beef from family-run farms in upstate New York, Pennsylvania, and New England. Emphasizing simplicity and quality, each steak is seasoned with flaked sea salt and expertly seared over live-fire charcoal, showcasing the true art of steak preparation. Opt for the char-grilled filet, potted beef with Yorkshire puddings and beef fat fries so good they almost reverse the damage Phil Sokolof did back in the '90s.

In addition to its main dining area, Hawksmoor boasts two private dining spaces, ideal for those seeking a more intimate or exclusive dining experience.

Renting a private dining room at Charlie Palmer at The Knick is like dining in a New York postcard, with Times Square views that make you feel more important than you probably are. Perched on the fourth floor, this spot combines the classic allure of The Knickerbocker with Chef Palmer's modern American cuisine, all while overlooking Broadway and 42nd Street. It's perfect for when you want to impress someone, or just pretend you're part of the Manhattan elite.

The restaurant caters to private events for up to 120 people, because why celebrate with a few when you can celebrate with many? Semi-private gatherings for six or more are also on offer, complete with stylish glass, marble, and metal-mesh drapes that subtly scream "I'm fancy." It's the ideal setting for those who enjoy the 'see-and-be-seen' atmosphere, or for those who simply like to people-watch with a touch of luxury.

Ideal for pre-theater dining or high-powered breakfast meetings, Charlie Palmer at The Knick is where you go to make a statement, or at least to enjoy the view while pretending to understand the menu's market-driven ingredients. Just remember, the view might distract you from the fact that you're actually there to eat.

If you’re looking to feed a hungry group, look no further than Carmine’s – a beloved Italian spot that’s been resident in the Upper West Side for over 30 years. Inside, you’ll be transported back to Old New York (well, - 1990s NYC). The restaurant occupies a former ballroom with vaulted ceilings, classic wood paneling, and gloriously over-the-top chandeliers, whilst obligatory black and white photos of Italian-Americans decorate the walls.

The menu is familiar yet extensive, offering everything from shrimp scampi and penne alla vodka to a tiramisu bigger than your face. The massive portions are made to share – unless you’re planning on channeling your inner Tony Soprano, we promise we won’t judge.

Carmine’s has multiple options for private dining. The full restaurant buyout holds 325 people. A private dining room is available for up to 42 guests, or there’s a semi-private space for up to 125 (for when your extended, extended family is in town). If you can brave the area, the Times Square location can hold 700 people. That’s a lot of pasta.

Renting a private dining room at Vinegar Hill House is like stepping into a secret Brooklyn garden party, if that party was hosted by someone with an exceptional taste in food. Tucked away in a historical part of the Brooklyn waterfront, it’s the kind of place you choose when you want to impress but pretend you’re not trying too hard. With a private dining room featuring an open fireplace, a historic carriage house, and a garden under a cherry tree, it’s perfect for those who like their celebrations with a side of whimsy and wood-fired oven eats.

Ideal for anything from birthday bashes to intimate weddings, this Michelin Guide-recommended spot comfortably accommodates 9 to 32 guests for seated meals or up to 45 for cocktail receptions. It’s where you go for a 'relaxed' event that's secretly meticulously planned down to the last artisanal crumb.

N.B. They also give directions to the restaurant in the form of a poem. More of that, please.

At 53, you can rent a private dining room that’s as eclectic as the city itself. Nestled under MoMA’s extended wing, this spot offers an artistic dining experience, blending Asian flavors with a New York City vibe.

Designed for those who appreciate the culinary arts as much as the visual ones, it’s perfect for an intimate gathering in a space that's both modern and buzzing with energy. Spearheaded by Chef Akmal Anuar, the menu is as diverse as you'd expect from one of New York's most exciting new spots. If you're looking to impress with more than just your art knowledge, 53's private dining might just be your canvas.

L'artusi has rightly earned its reputation in New York for quality Italian cooking that stays true to what it does best: truly fantastic bowls of pasta.

Renting L'Artusi's Private Wine Room is like hosting a dinner party inside an Italian wine encyclopedia, but with less reading and more eating. Tucked within a 2,000-bottle walk-in wine cellar, this space offers an oenophile’s dream backdrop for any event. It's perfect for those who want to casually drop into conversation that their party was surrounded by more Italian wines than most people can name. The sharing-style menu, crafted from seasonal offerings, ensures your guests will be too delighted to notice if you can't tell a Barolo from a Brunello. With early and late seating options, it's ideal for both the fashionably early and the stylishly late.

Just try not to knock over any bottles, please.