The top small party venues to rent in New York City

The Gem Saloon offers a cozy and stylish backdrop for small gatherings in NYC. The Mezzanine, a private events space with its own bar, combines a classic, rustic New York vibe with a touch of vintage glamour. The space is outfitted with plush seating, warm lighting, and antique accents, creating a charming atmosphere. The venue features a full-service bar, with a variety of beers, wines, and signature cocktails like the Campfire, a bourbon-based drink topped with ginger beer and toasted marshmallow. Trixie’s has a distinctly upscale but relaxed ambiance ideal for an unforgettable, refined experience with a group of close friends or colleagues.

Set apart from the main floor, this lounge-like space offers a customizable layout, for up to 90 standing guests or 25 seated.

Jumpin' Jacks at ModernHaus offers a blend of upscale ambiance and relaxed vibes, ideal for intimate gatherings. The space is sleek and modern, with large windows that showcase stunning city views, setting a dramatic backdrop for events. The venue’s flexible layout works well for private cocktail parties or relaxed celebrations, with mid-century-inspired seating and curated artwork adding an extra touch of personality By day, it serves as a sunlit coffee bar and casual workspace, and at night, it transitions into a chic and lively cocktail lounge. Whenever you’re planning to have your event, Jumpin' Jacks is a super versatile option ideal for events at any time of day.

This venue is ideal for smaller events, with available space for up to 80 individuals.

One of the most iconic restaurants in the city, Union Square Cafe is home to two private dining spaces ideal for elegant dinner parties. The award-winning restaurant features a hearty menu of pasta, meat, and seafood dishes all prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Treat up to 40 of your closest friends to a fabulous meal in the private Park & Irving room, a sophisticated dining room dotted with floral vignettes. For smaller parties, The Alcove offers a semi-private table for 10 guests with a view over the buzzing main dining room.

Crystal Lake is a quirky, vintage-inspired small party venue and bar that gives off a cool, eclectic vibe. Set in a former warehouse, it has that classic Brooklyn charm, with exposed brick, high ceilings, and vintage decor bringing a cozy, rustic ambiance. The venue features two bars, plenty of lounge seating, and an open space that can be customized for different types of events, from casual parties to intimate gatherings. Order $12 cocktails (yes, $12!!!) like The Gimmy, made with pear vodka, elderflower, and lemon. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a laid-back, unique setting with a bit of an edge – typical of Williamsburg.

Their back lounge is great for groups of up to 90 and offers banquette seating and a dance floor.

If you’re torn between hosting your party at a green space or at a gallery, The Standard Plaza gives you the best of both worlds. This lush courtyard below The Standard’s High Line location offers an imaginative space for outdoor gatherings. With rotating art displays, your guests can enjoy inspiring artwork while mixing and mingling.

Choose from their vast selection of breakfast, brunch, and lunch, which can be served as buffets or as seated meals. They also offer a bar menu or you can choose a signature cocktail for your party.

The Standard Plaza can host 40 guests for seated events and up to 70 for standing cocktail parties.

When New York City leaves you feeling a bit out of touch, BLACKBARN Restaurant is here to bring you down to earth. No trends or gimmicks, just simple, hearty meals in a rustic setting. With food so fresh you might run into the chefs picking up ingredients at the nearby Union Square Farmers Market, you can feel assured your guests will be served the highest quality dishes.

Host a small party in one of the seven exclusive private event spaces, reflecting the organic menu with natural furnishings and minimal decor. Each dining table is a repurposed barn door, bringing new meaning to the term “farm-to-table”.

For private dining, BLACKBARN can host 14 to 80 guests.

Felice Columbus will transport your guests from the hustle and bustle of NYC to the serenity of the Tuscan countryside. This Italian restaurant serves traditional dishes in their warm and inviting dining room. Downstairs, their private event space The Lounge, feels like stepping into the wine cellar of a Tuscan villa, with cozy seating areas and atmospheric touches.

The space is ideal for intimate cocktail parties: guests can choose from an extensive menu of cocktails, including six different martini recipes. The Lounge can accommodate up to 60 guests.

The Empire Room is a stylish, intimate space that combines vintage charm with modern flair, making it great for small gatherings. Located in the basement of Downtown Social, the Empire Room stands out with its plush, retro-inspired decor—think dark wood accents, moody lighting, and mirrored details. The space’s layout is cozy and private, ideal for cocktail parties, company socials, or birthday celebrations. Enjoy classic shareables like onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and buffalo wings, as well as cocktails like The Monarch, made with gin, lavender simple syrup, lemon, and cranberry.

The Empire Room offers space for up to 80 party guests. With a full-service bar, chandeliers, and a refined vibe, it’s ideal for your next small party celebration. For bigger parties, the room can be adjoined with The State Room.

If your dream party is an elevated version of the tea parties you hosted in your backyard as a kid, The Orangery is the perfect place to invite your friends for a grown-up afternoon tea. From the bold furniture to the outdoor space with views of a sculpture garden, The Orangery is sure to capture your guests’ imaginations.

If you want something a bit more substantial than scones and tea, the menu also includes breakfast and brunch options alongside an extensive cocktail menu. Refreshing sparkling and signature cocktails are a pretty great alternative to the imaginary “tea” you served in childhood.

The Orangery can host up to 18 guests for seated meals or 25 for standing reception.

The Whiskey Cellar in the East Village offers a more laid-back, dive bar feel, making it an ideal spot for casual small gatherings with a gritty charm. The venue has dim lighting, exposed brick, and straightforward decor that gives it an unpretentious, cozy atmosphere. The menu features classic dive bar-y options like chips and salsa, quesadillas, and various wines and classic cocktails.

Renting out the entire venue provides enough space for up to 50 individuals (with room to dance), or you can book out the back room for 30 guests, which includes a private bar.