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Written by Tara Monjazeb - May 24 2024


The best places to throw a private party in Midtown


You can argue all you want, but we think it’s unfair that the tourist attractions have given Midtown a bad reputation among locals. Sure, we all avoid the heart of Manhattan while we can, but you can’t deny its status as the iconic heart of NYC.


On the bright side, some standout party venues will make you feel a little better about dragging all your friends toward Times Square. Here are five of the best.


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1. You’ll forget you’re in Midtown at this party venue: Bryant Park Grill

Midtown, New York

Nestled behind the New York Public Library amongst the trees of Bryant Park is the aptly named Bryant Park Grill. With Parisian-inspired interiors and lush greenery climbing its garden spaces, this party venue will sweep your guests away from the skyscrapers of Midtown (though, if you really miss them, you can get a peek from the outdoor spaces).


There are several options available for private parties. The Garden, Cafe, and Rooftop Terrace offer al-fresco dining with a verdant backdrop for up to 220 guests each. The Grill dining room is a sophisticated setting for sit-down dinners, weddings, or cocktail parties of up to 220 guests. For a smaller option, book the semi-private indoor/outdoor space for 45.


Party menus include a dessert buffet, a three-course dinner, and cocktail hors d’oeuvres. The New American fare features creative takes on classics like fig and fontina grilled cheese, and lamb kabobs with lavender honey. Add on a bar package or enjoy drinks a la carte to top it all off.



2. A sophisticated cocktail lounge for a Midtown party: Raines Law Room at the William

Midtown, New York

Enter Raines Law Room and you’ll be transported to a 20th-century dark academia library: long drapes, velvet furniture, and deep jewel tones greet you amongst stacked bookshelves. Known for their masterful cocktails, you’ll find limited-edition signatures, small-batch spirits, and seasonal themed drinks. Try the Latin Heat, which highlights spirits and spices from Central and South America, or Fresh Start, which has floral and fruity elements celebrating warmer weather.


Rent out the full space for a Hemingway-themed birthday party (or maybe just corporate drinks) for up to 150 guests. Smaller guest lists can be accommodated in the Peacock Room (max.40), the Library (max.40), or the Hawthorne Terrace (max.50).


Along with the specialty cocktails, you can order small plates like crispy goat cheese, NYC pastrami sandwich bites, and chocolate truffles.



stout sports bar bryant park midtown party venue nyc
stout sports bar bryant park midtown party venue nyc

3. An elevated sports bar to throw a party in Midtown: Stout Bryant Park

Midtown, New York

There’s nothing like getting a hundred sports bros together to watch the Knicks or the Jets on too many TV screens. If that’s your idea of a party, head over to Stout Bryant Park, a public house-inspired community space in the heart of NYC. Find comfortable furniture, giant portions of chicken fingers, and TVs in the double digits.


The main bar is ideal for prime viewing, with sixteen TVs and the option to rent out a semi-private space, so you can still be a part of the atmosphere. Or, opt for the private Mezzanine, which can accommodate 100 guests standing and overlooks the main restaurant. A full-service bar, six TVs, and a DJ-ready A/V setup make it a versatile party space. Smaller group occasions can rent the dining room for up to 25.


On the menu, you’ll find Baja fish tacos, turkey burgers, and Wisconsin-style thin-crust pizza. To feed the masses, you can order trays of pigs in a blanket, Stout burger sliders, or spring rolls. Of course, it’s not a sports bar without beer – there’s a variety of drafts, bottles, and cans from New York and beyond.



4. Throw a Big Easy party in the Big Apple: Alligator Pear

Midtown, New York

This Midtown party venue blends eclectic decor and drinks with New Orleans-inspired tradition. With various private rooms, each uniquely decorated with funky patterns and bright colors, you’ll find something suitable for your next bash.


Smaller groups can book the nature-inspired Autumn in the Air area for up to 20 guests, or opt for the Oak Room for a more formal low-key dinner party of 14. For a fully private space, the Speakeasy Bar is available for up to 130 standing guests, complete with a flamingo pink bar and bright blue seating. A full buyout is also available for up to 500 guests. Rooms offer A/V capabilities from TVs to DJ setups, depending on what you’re planning.


The signature cocktails are tropical, with fruity flavors like pineapple, passionfruit, and rhubarb. Rich New American dishes like blackened salmon and lobster rolls are on the menu, and if you’re not finishing off with one of their beignets, you’re doing it wrong.



5. A Midtown party venue with laid-back Aussie vibes: Daintree

Midtown, New York

Named after Australia’s largest rainforest, Daintree’s location can’t be more of the polar opposite. However, its bohemian interior is flushed with greenery, and woven fixtures with vibrant plush seating enhance the tropical oasis. Situated on the 29th floor, the floor-to-ceiling windows and terrace give you skyline views, so you can see out from the treetops of the concrete jungle.


Event packages offer a few different spaces to rent, including the Bar Room (max. 45), the enclosed penthouse (max. 120), or the Treetop Terrace (max. 70). A full buyout accommodates 220 standing guests and 100 seated. Choose from passed hors d’oeuvres like crispy halloumi bites or mini macarons, or opt for food stations offering NY strip steak and rigatoni alla vodka.


Specialty cocktails are a blend of culture, like the Aussie Spritz with Aperol, strawberry, blood orange, and thyme, or the Southern Touch with Jack Daniel’s black tea, amaretto, and peach. Order calamari, truffle fries, or sliders to snack on a la carte. If you’re feeling experimental, order the kangaroo skewers. That’ll take you down under.



Find the perfect party venue near Midtown.

Party in Midtown like there's no tomorrow, in venues that turn night into day and events into legends. Book a space where the vibe is as vibrant as the city's pulse, and rent a venue that's the epitome of Midtown's nightlife. It's not just a party; it's a pulse-raising, show-stopping, talk-of-the-town bash. From rooftop raves to secret soirees, find the perfect party venue and let the city's electric energy fuel a night that will be hashtagged for years to come.

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The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Party Venue in Midtown

So, you’ve decided to throw a party in Midtown, NYC—a place where dreams are made, skyscrapers touch the clouds, and people perpetually act like they’re late for something. You’re brave, ambitious, and possibly a little bit mad. But fear not! This ultimate guide will help you navigate the concrete jungle to find and hire a venue that will make your event the talk of the town. Whether it’s for a birthday, corporate event, or just because you felt like flexing your hosting muscles, you’ve come to the right place. This exhaustive and humorous guide will walk you through every step of finding and privately hiring the perfect party venue in the heart of the Big Apple. Let’s dive in!

Why Choose Midtown for Your Private Event?

Midtown is the epicenter of New York City's hustle and bustle. It's where yellow cabs honk their way through gridlock and street food vendors serve up the best hot dogs you'll ever eat. Home to more Starbucks than you can count, it’s the place where tourists and locals alike come to experience the quintessential NYC vibe. With its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Broadway, and the Empire State Building, Midtown is the perfect backdrop for any event.

Do you know your Midtowners?

Let us break it down for you. In the mid-1950s this area boomed with office space in the form of tall skyscrapers to rival Wall Street and since then the suits have stuck around the area. You've got The Corporate Titans, high-powered executives, armed with a smartphone and a relentless drive to close the next big deal. Or The Tourist Extravaganza, wide-eyed with wonder, trying to figure out which way is uptown. Or look out for The Theater Buffs, heading straight towards Broadway, humming show tunes as they rush to catch the latest hit. But let’s be real – you’re not here for the tourist traps. You’re here to find a private venue where you and your guests can enjoy your event without elbowing through hordes of selfie-stick-wielding tourists. Once you've navigated the crowd and got an idea of the Midtown vibe, you can begin to think about the venue.

Here's our Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Perfect Private Hire Venue in Midtown:

Step 1: Define Your Party Needs

  1. The Guest List. First things first, how many people are you planning to invite? Midtown venues range from intimate spaces perfect for a close-knit group to expansive halls that could host your entire LinkedIn network.

  2. Date and Time: When is the event happening?

  3. The Budget. Midtown isn’t exactly known for being budget-friendly (hello, $10 lattes!), but there’s a range of options to suit different wallets. Establish your budget early to avoid falling in love with a venue that costs more than your annual salary. Midtown is notorious for its sky-high prices, but there are gems to be found at every price point. Remember things like minimum spend and tipping staff and think about whether you need food and drink. Most places offer catering and customisation which can make your event stand out. HeadBox tip: Many venues will offer package deals that can save you some serious bucks.

  4. The Vibe. Are you going for classy and elegant, or wild and quirky? Maybe a bit of both? Midtown venues are as diverse as the people you’ll find on a Monday morning in Times Square. Knowing the vibe will help you narrow down your choices.

Step 2: Scout the Perfect Location

  1. Start your venue search online through HeadBox. Just fill in our brief building with all your necessities and any requests and HeadBox will match you with a plethora of venues that fulfil your needs. Think if Airbnb and Tinder had a baby. And we won't match you with those with bad reviews – no one wants to discover their dream venue has a rat problem after signing the contract.

  2. Don't be afraid to shut the laptop screen and take a stroll around. Sometimes the best hidden gems are found by stumbling across them. Plus, seeing a venue in action is more insightful than a thousand polished marketing photos.

  3. Social media can also be a good way to get a personal insight into a venue. Try TikTok-ing 'best midtown venue' and watch an influencer sip on a bars signature cocktail or a team enjoying working a unique meeting space.

Step 3: Shortlist Your Favorites

Now it’s time to decide. Can you see yourself and your guests in any of these places? Don't be afraid to visit in person. Pictures can be deceiving, so it’s worth taking the time to visit your top choices in person. Seeing is believing! Match with them on HeadBox, slide into those DMs or, if you’re old-fashioned, give them a call. When contacting the bars, be sure to consider:

  1. Location, Location, Location. Midtown stretches from 34th Street to 59th Street, between 3rd and 8th Avenues. Make sure your venue is accessible for your guests. Proximity to major subway lines and landmarks can be a huge plus (no one wants to walk 15 blocks in stilettos).

  2. Amenities. Does the venue have a sound system? How about a bar? Is there space for dancing, or will your guests be stuck awkwardly swaying in their seats? List your must-haves and deal-breakers.

  3. Policies. Some venues are stricter than your high school principal. Check their policies on things like noise levels, decor, and whether they let you bring in your own caterer (because Aunt Linda’s lasagna is non-negotiable).

  4. Availability: Is the date you want open?

  5. Capacity: Can they accommodate your group size?

  6. Private Hire Details: What’s included in the private hire? Are there any restrictions or additional fees?

  7. Other Options: Do they offer food and drink, or can you bring in your own? Do they have the right AV for your presentation? Can you customise the cocktail to match your hair color?

Step 4: Once you're satisfied, Lock It Down!

Once you’ve found the perfect venue, it’s time to seal the deal. Make sure to get everything in writing: Contracts are your friend! Confirm all details: Double-check the date, time, and what’s included. Plan the logistics: Think about transportation, decorations, and any other details to make your event a success. Read the fine print. Ensure you understand the terms before signing anything. Pay attention to cancellation policies and what happens if you need to change the date. Some venues require event insurance. It sounds boring, but it’s better than paying for a broken chandelier that someone mistook for a monkey bar.

Step 5. Plan the Party

The last push! Here is where you can really make it your own. Think about:

  1. Theme and Decor: Midtown venues are often blank canvases. Whether you’re going for a chic black-tie event or a whimsical wonderland, plan your decorations accordingly. Just remember to check with the venue about what’s allowed.

  2. Catering and Drinks: Midtown is a culinary melting pot. From gourmet catering to food trucks, the options are endless. Decide if you want a sit-down dinner, buffet, or just finger foods. And don’t forget the bar—hire a mixologist if you want to impress your guests with fancy cocktails.

  3. Entertainment: Hire a DJ, live band, magician, or even a karaoke machine. Midtown is crawling with talent, so you have plenty of options to keep your guests entertained.

  4. Send Invites: Whether you go old-school with paper invites or modern with e-vites, make sure your guests have all the details, including dress code, directions, and any special instructions.

  5. Confirm Details: Double-check everything with your vendors and the venue a week before the event. Confirm the guest count, final menu, setup times, and any other critical details.

  6. Relax and Enjoy: On the day of the party, try to relax. You’ve done the hard work, and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Plus, nothing says “party host” like a calm demeanor and a drink in hand.

Conclusion

Finding and privately hiring a party venue in Midtown, is a thrilling adventure filled with endless possibilities and the occasional stress-induced hair-pulling moment. But with this guide, you’re armed and ready to conquer the concrete jungle and throw a party that even the most cynical New Yorker would RSVP to. After all, you’re planning an event in one of the most vibrant places on earth!

So go forth, planner extraordinaire, and may your Midtown party be nothing short of spectacular!

Frequently asked questions

Venues in Midtown Manhattan vary widely in size and can accommodate anything from small intimate gatherings of 20-30 people to large parties of 500 or more guests. When selecting a venue, it’s important to confirm the maximum capacity to ensure it comfortably fits your guest list.

Noise restrictions and curfews depend on the specific venue and its location within Midtown Manhattan. Some venues may have strict noise ordinances or time limits, especially if they are in residential areas or have agreements with neighboring businesses. It’s important to discuss these details with the venue manager to ensure your party plans comply with their policies.

Many venues in Midtown Manhattan offer flexibility in terms of décor and setup, allowing you to personalize the space to fit your party’s theme and style. Some venues may provide in-house event planning and decorating services, while others may allow you to bring in your own decorators. Always confirm the extent of customization allowed and any additional fees that may apply.

Midtown is well-served by public transportation, including subways, buses, and taxis, making it accessible for guests traveling from different parts of the city. Many venues do not have dedicated parking but may offer valet services or have partnerships with nearby parking garages. It's important to talk to your chosen venue with information on the best transportation options and any available parking facilities

Catering options can vary greatly depending on the venue. Some venues have in-house catering services with set menus, while others have preferred caterers you must use. Additionally, some venues allow you to bring in outside caterers for a fee. It’s important to discuss your catering needs with the venue to understand the available options and any restrictions.

For peace of mind and an easy booking process let us know exactly what you’re looking for via our brief builder. This way we can approach the best venues in Midtown with the exact needs of your event.

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