Hosting a large group at a restaurant requires careful planning, from making reservations to choosing a menu that caters to everyone’s tastes.
Whether it’s a birthday party, work event, or just a night out with friends, finding the right spot to accommodate your group can be a challenge.
To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top 11 restaurant chains that cater to big gatherings with spacious dining areas, customizable menus, and excellent service. These options range from casual to fine dining, ensuring you find the perfect spot for any occasion.
11 Best Group-Friendly Restaurant Chains
1. Buffalo Wild Wings
If your group loves sports and a laid-back atmosphere, Buffalo Wild Wings is a great choice. Known for its extensive menu of wings, tenders, and appetizers, this chain is perfect for big gatherings, especially with its sports-bar vibe.
Buffalo Wild Wings has around 1,200 locations across the U.S., and many of them accept reservations for large groups. Calling ahead to let them know you’re coming is highly recommended.
- Best For: Casual get-togethers, game day events
- Group Size: Accommodates large parties, but call ahead for seating arrangements
2. Dave & Buster’s
For a more interactive group experience, Dave & Buster’s combines food, drinks, and games for a fun night out. This part-arcade, part-restaurant chain has 140 locations and offers packages for groups of up to 20 people, including platters and drink options.
You can reserve larger spaces online, and many locations also have private dining options. The variety of games and entertainment ensures there’s something for everyone.
- Best For: Family gatherings, corporate events, birthday parties
- Group Size: 20 or fewer for reservations, larger groups can book private spaces
3. The Capital Grille
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, The Capital Grille offers a fine dining experience with world-class steaks, seafood, and an impressive wine list.
The restaurant can accommodate parties of up to 12 in their main dining area, but for larger events, private dining rooms are available with customizable menus and personalized service.
- Best For: Corporate dinners, special celebrations, formal events
- Group Size: Private dining for larger groups, reservations recommended for parties under 12
4. Benihana
A fun dining experience awaits at Benihana, where skilled chefs prepare meals tableside on a teppanyaki grill. With its interactive dining experience, Benihana is perfect for both family outings and group events.
They accept reservations for up to 15 people, and larger parties can take advantage of their private dining rooms.
- Best For: Birthday parties, group dining with entertainment
- Group Size: 15 or more with reservations for private dining
5. The Old Spaghetti Factory
For Italian-American cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere, The Old Spaghetti Factory is a fantastic option.
This chain has locations across the country and offers private dining areas for large groups of up to 150 people. Their classic menu, featuring pasta dishes, salads, and desserts, makes it easy to please a crowd.
- Best For: Family reunions, casual celebrations, team outings
- Group Size: 150 max in private dining areas
6. Seasons 52
For health-conscious diners, Seasons 52 offers a seasonal menu with fresh ingredients, with all dishes under 595 calories.
The chain provides a mix of private and semi-private dining spaces, accommodating parties up to 12 for a sit-down meal. It’s an excellent choice for groups who want to enjoy flavorful yet balanced meals.
- Best For: Health-conscious groups, business lunches, intimate dinners
- Group Size: Up to 12 people for reservations, private dining for larger groups
7. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
Known for its high-quality steaks and elegant atmosphere, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is ideal for group dining with private rooms available for larger gatherings.
Their extensive menu of steak, seafood, and sides can be customized for events, making it a top choice for special occasions.
- Best For: Corporate events, anniversary dinners, special celebrations
- Group Size: Private rooms available, reservations for smaller groups
8. The Cheesecake Factory
With an extensive menu offering something for everyone, The Cheesecake Factory is a go-to for group dining. While they accept reservations for up to six people, many locations offer banquet rooms for larger parties. Their signature cheesecakes and diverse menu make it a crowd-pleaser for any event.
- Best For: Birthday parties, family dinners, casual celebrations
- Group Size: Up to 6 for reservations, larger groups accommodated in banquet rooms
9. Cracker Barrel
For those who prefer comfort food, Cracker Barrel serves classic Southern favorites like chicken fried steak and biscuits. While they don’t take traditional reservations, they do offer a waitlist option for larger groups.
Cracker Barrel also provides ample space for big family gatherings, with a laid-back, homey atmosphere.
- Best For: Family gatherings, casual meals, reunions
- Group Size: Up to 15 on a waitlist; larger groups can request special seating arrangements
10. P.F. Chang’s
For a taste of Asian fusion, P.F. Chang’s offers a variety of dishes, from sushi to stir-fries, all made fresh daily. They can accommodate groups of up to 12 with reservations and offer a variety of menu options for private events. Larger groups should call ahead as P.F. Chang’s tends to fill up quickly.
- Best For: Group dining with Asian cuisine, business dinners, casual gatherings
- Group Size: Up to 12 for reservations, larger groups by request
11. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Medieval Times offers a live dinner show complete with jousting and sword fighting.
Groups can enjoy a four-course meal served during the performance, making it an entertaining choice for birthday parties or family outings. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and larger groups can inquire about special packages.
- Best For: Family outings, themed events, large gatherings
- Group Size: 15 or more for group packages, reservations for smaller parties
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a fun night out with friends or hosting a formal event, these restaurant chains offer excellent options for large groups. From casual sports bars like Buffalo Wild Wings to upscale steakhouses like The Capital Grille, there’s a restaurant to suit every occasion.
Be sure to call ahead or book online to ensure the restaurant can accommodate your group, and take advantage of private dining options where available for a more personalized experience.
