If it’s true that 60 is the new 30 and the octogenarian celebration is the only time you can appropriately tease the birthday girl or boy that they are “over the hill,” what’s the best way to celebrate a 30th, 40th or 50th birthday party in style? A kegger in the woods? Raiding your own liquor cabinet followed by a binge of racy R-rated movies? A night of clubbing?
How about an elegant private party dining room experience for you and your closest friends. You know who. The ones who make you feel young, vibrant, and truly alive. Here’s a few spots that get our stamp of approval.
Terre a Terre: Farm-to-table seasonal cuisine tastes even better when the chef creates a menu just for you and your crew. We loved our experience and you can check out the details here. Chef Todd Villani works with local purveyors to curate a menu that changes often based on what’s in season.
Vibe: Rustic, Farmhouse, Casual and Warm with personal visits from the Chef between courses.
The Table: Set in a separate dining area off the main room, seats up to 8 people (can accommodate more for a private event)
The Menu: From 5 to 9 courses, selected with attention paid to dietary restrictions and preferences.
Details: Includes welcome drinks (non-alcoholic) and antipasti, BYOB, starting at $50pp.
Where: 312 Hackensack St, Carlstadt, 201.507.0500
River Palm Terrace Edgewater Obviously you’ve hit the main dining room, bustling with a nyc vibe. But have you met it’s cozier, quieter, sister- the upstairs dining area, which can be used for private gatherings or to accommodate larger tables.
Vibe: Dressy but cozy, definitely a “special occasion” feel.
The Table: Table clothes over round tops or long rectangular tables from 10 to up to 50 people, starting at $45.95pp
The Menu: Completely customizable based on budget and what you want: from steaks to chops to sushi. Top shelf wines are in stock.
Details: A sushi appetizer table and pass-arounds plus amazing staff (who make sure drinks are always filled) are part of their formula for party success.
Where: 1416 River Rd, Edgewater, (201) 224-2013
Oceanaire Seafood Room The upscale eatery, which is part of the Landry’s Restaurants has private dining in mind, with two private rooms available, serving top-of-the-catch fish from the world’s most reputable suppliers and more.
Vibe: Modern, sleek and lighting that works in your favor.
The Table: Contemporary, comfortable, long tables. They offer one smaller dining room which can accommodate up to 10 people and a larger room with space for 40.
The Menu: Special menus available, starting at $55pp for food, with drinks upon consumption.
Details: Oceanaire serves brunch too, so it’s great for baby and bridal showers.
Where: The Shops at Riverside, Hackensack
Dimora Restaurant County fave Dimora Restaurant has an upstairs where they serve up crowd pleasing pastas and choices of favorite entrees for you and 30 to 60 guests.
Vibe: Warm and inviting.
The Table: Cozy banquet style seating, usually in an “L” shape or a long table.
The Menu: Offering various menu options or really “anything you want”, pricing based on your menu choices and number of people.
Details: We could swear the food is actually better than the downstairs restaurant (or maybe that was just the two glasses of wine talking).
Where: 100 Piermont Rd, Norwood, (201) 750-5000
14 and Hudson is a newcomer on the dining scene but co-owner Paula Woods brings years of catering experience to the table (she honed her skills at The Four Seasons NY)
Vibe: Don’t be fooled by the bustling downstairs, the upstairs private dining space is serene, brand new, with wood floors and great natural light.
The Table: Rounds seating up to 50 guests or 60 for cocktail parties.
The Menu: Chef/Owner Eric Woods’ standard menu items are full proof, but they will customize based on your budget, taste and theme.
Details: Think Pinterest-worthy place settings, decor and floral arrangements. Brunch is an option too.
Where: 457 Piermont Avenue, Piermont, New York, 845-680-0014
