Churros stick out of a metal pail lined with paper, alongside a spicy chocolate dipping sauce, at Gustazo in Cambridge. — Churros from Gustazo.

12 Restaurants Around Boston That Are Great for Groups

Take a bunch of friends here for dinner to celebrate

by Karen Wilber Nov 4, 2022, 10:16am EDT

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Churros from Gustazo.

| Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

by Karen Wilber Nov 4, 2022, 10:16am EDT

Whether it’s a birthday dinner, family coming into town, a work gathering, or just a regular weekend out with friends, everyone finds themselves in a situation that calls for the perfect restaurant for a group. Here’s a collection of excellent options for planning, with great food and a variety of vibes.

Of course, with any group outing consider a reservation or contacting the restaurant. For even more group options, check out these heated patios, igloos, and yurts, or these private event spaces for an even larger gathering.

Gustazo Cuban Kitchen & Bar - Cambridge

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With multiple levels, Gustazo has the space for a group night out with a menu to match. The small plates selection is flavor-packed, with plenty of easy to share options for a group — try the yuca frita and the croquetas. The bartenders shake up some incredible cocktails, and wine, beer, and mocktails as well. Make reservations for up to six online, and contact the restaurant for more.

2067 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140

(855) 487-8296

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Interior of an upstairs room of a restaurant. — Gustazo in Cambridge.

Bow Market

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It’s no secret that Bow Market is perfect for a group – it’s choose-your-own-adventure style so everyone in your party can get what they’re craving most. Book a fire pit or take advantage of any of the several other ways to enjoy Bow.

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1 Bow Mkt Wy, Somerville, MA 02143

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Bar Enza

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Located within the Charles Hotel, Bar Enza’s dining area is spacious with plush, inviting booths ideal for groups. Order the ciabatta breadsticks to start, which are served alongside a decadent plate of mascarpone, olio nuevo, sorrento lemon, and lava salt.

1 Bennett St, Cambridge, MA 02138

(617) 661-5050

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Night Shift Brewing - Lovejoy Wharf

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In addition to serving up irresistible Detroit style pizza, this huge brewhouse offers plentiful seating and often has many large group reservations available online. Keep an eye out for anything on the menu with their chive ranch — it’s delightful.

1 Lovejoy Wharf #101, Boston, MA 02114

(617) 456-7687

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Ariana Restaurant

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If a group is looking for a calm, relaxed atmosphere, head to Ariana. Try the aushuk, Afghani dumplings with a garlic and mint yogurt sauce. For a larger group, contact the restaurant about their private dining room.

384 Western Ave, Brighton, MA 02135

(617) 208-8072

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Committee

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Committee is ready for a group: they offer large format drinks, a balanced menu with plenty of options for veggie-eaters and meat-eaters, and easy online booking. Groups of up to 10 can book online, even a month or two in advance.

50 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210

(617) 737-5051

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Brown Sugar Cafe

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If you’re looking for a casual, fun outing, Brown Sugar puts on a whimsical light show for diners celebrating a birthday. It may very well have one of the longest menus in Boston, so there’s plenty to choose from.

1033 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215

(617) 787-4242

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Penang Malaysian Cuisine

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Located in Chinatown, this Malaysian spot is an easy meetup for folks coming from all around the Boston area. Many circular tables make Penang a group-friendly experience, especially if you’re lucky and land one of the tables with a Lazy Susan. From the massive menu, be sure to try the homemade roti and the beef rendang with coconut rice.

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685 Washington St, Boston, MA 02116

(617) 451-6373

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Empire Garden Restaurant

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A group dim sum outing means never having to say no when a cart comes by, and Empire Garden offers a distinctive experience in a vintage theater with a funky atmosphere. Plenty of large tables makes it easy for groups to enjoy all of the pork buns, steamed rice rolls, and shrimp dumplings.

690 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111

(617) 482-8898

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Bootleg Special

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Bootleg Special is the perfect outing for a birthday, or just treating yourself to a fantastic seafood boil (heavy on the garlic). For those with a sweet tooth, don’t skip beignets after dinner or the soufflé pancakes at brunch.

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400 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116

(617) 451-1800

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Coquette

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This glamorous Seaport restaurant is a destination spot. Ethereal décor, big cozy booths, and seafood towers make this an ideal birthday or bachelorette group location.

450 Summer Street, Boston, MA 02210

(617) 882-0090

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Blossom Bar at Sichuan Garden

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Blossom Bar’s all-around excellence makes it an excellent choice for groups. While you may not want to share your Chengdu dry hot chicken wings, the large format main dishes are perfect for sharing and getting to try more of the menu. Booking options are available for groups of many sizes.