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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the US

Casual dinners with friends

Made for those who value the company of their friends and insist on a low-pressure environment where the conversation matters more than the dress code.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
Chubby Curry image 1
Chubby Curry image 2
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Japanese curry restaurant

Anime-themed decor with Manga replicas and anime figures creates a vibrant, fun atmosphere. Open-air layout with a second-floor dining area offers a welcoming, comfortable space. Tables include unique activities like board games and puzzles, adding a playful touch to the experience.

Cozy and inviting ambiance suits late dinners with friends or lovers. Space works well for casual gatherings or family dinners.

Cozy and inviting ambiance creates a casual atmosphere. Friendly staff offer accommodating service that fits relaxed dining. Decor supports a comfortable mood for casual meals.

People are saying

"The chicken katsu curry was amazing and perfectly fried."

"The tonkatsu here is so crispy and moist inside."

"The anime decor here is quirky and playful."

Good to know

1

Membership is required to earn points on purchases at Chubby Curry.

2

Parking is available right in front of the restaurant.

3

A locals discount is offered for nearby residents.

02
The Great Dane Pub image 1

Space combines brick walls, chandeliers, and leather booths with family photos and green plaid accents for an upscale pub vibe. Atmosphere balances fun and lively energy with comfortable acoustics suited for conversation. Several TVs support a family pub feel that welcomes groups and sports fans alike.

Offers a casual spot for dinner with friends and watching games. Serves solid meals suited for group dining.

Good vibes and a casual atmosphere make it easy to relax. Prices stay reasonable, fitting for casual hangouts or a nicer night out.

People are saying

"The food here is spot-on, with juicy burgers cooked perfectly."

"It's a gorgeous space with upscale pub energy, perfect for casual hangouts."

"The staff's friendly recommendations made our Dinner With Friends great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Parking in Royal Oak requires an app for meter payment; be prepared.

3

The menu offers diverse options, including pizza and vegetarian dishes.

03
Torizaku image 1
Asian restaurant

Wooden decor and warm yellow lights create a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels like a slice of Japan. The space balances stylish, modern design with a lively yet comfortable vibe typical of an izakaya. It attracts groups and couples looking for a wholesome, relaxed dining experience.

Casual dinners with friends focus on relaxed vibes and great drinks. The spot suits groups looking for a laid-back evening out.

Ideal for a casual night out, this spot suits date nights and hanging with friends. Drinks and casual dinners fit the vibe well.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is perfectly grilled and smoky."

"It's a really cozy spot with authentic Japanese vibes."

"The casual skewers are grilled to perfection, crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs Monday to Friday from 4 to 6 PM for $16.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of yakitori skewers worth trying.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

04
Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill image 1

Elegant dining space features floral decor with hanging flowers and butterflies, creating a cozy yet stylish atmosphere. Covered outdoor patio with heaters offers a comfortable seating option. The vibe suits celebrations and gatherings, blending Instagram-worthy aesthetics with inviting warmth.

Casual dinners with friends happen in a cute setting that fits relaxed vibes. The spot works well for date nights or just hanging out over a meal.

The spot suits families and casual nights out with a relaxed vibe. It works well for casual dinners and also handles special occasions without fuss.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"The casual curries here are rich, aromatic, and full of flavor."

"Dinner with friends here feels so cozy and thoughtfully designed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with limited drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended for birthday celebrations and large groups.

3

Customers typically wait about 15 minutes for a table during peak hours.

05
Osteria Nonnino image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers tableside pasta preparation and live culinary shows in a cozy, beautifully decorated space with outdoor seating. Atmosphere is lively but can be noisy due to cramped seating and sound reverberation. Guests enjoy a warm, inviting vibe with a mix of contemporary and rustic design elements.

Saturday night dinners with friends fit well here, especially for groups around eight. Ambiance suits celebrations, family gatherings, and date nights.

Warm and inviting atmosphere fits both casual dinners and special occasions. The vibe stays relaxing and cozy, with a very casual dress code.

People are saying

"The tableside Cacio e Pepe pasta is phenomenal."

"Dinner with friends here features amazing homemade pasta, especially the truffle Cacio e Pepe."

"The casual service here is attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times for walk-ins, especially during peak hours.

3

Happy hour runs until 7pm with discounts on drinks and snacks.

06
Ahgassi Korean Barbecue image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant with powerful individual BBQ extractors and spacious two-level layout creates a well-ventilated environment. Loud acoustics and K-pop music set a lively, energetic atmosphere that can make conversation challenging. Unique interior styling resembles a fortune teller's shop, offering a distinct visual experience alongside the food.

Dinner with friends features attentive service and excellent cooking. The setting supports a relaxed and enjoyable group meal.

A casual vibe mixes with a chic, modern interior creating a cool spot for dinner. The atmosphere feels lively and bar-like, fitting for catching up with friends or family.

People are saying

"The Korean food service here is outstanding and thoughtful."

"The food for Dinner With Friends was amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The marinated meat here is so tasty and cooked right in front of you."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

For groups larger than 6, booking in advance is necessary.

3

There is a strict 90-minute dining limit for all customers.

07
KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious dining area with high ceilings and ample seating creates an inviting environment. Energy stays lively and energetic, suitable for casual meals and celebrations. Self-serve bars and innovative ordering via iPad add a modern touch to the experience.

Offers a chill atmosphere for dinner with friends. Serves quick, satisfying meals that work well for casual group dinners.

Lively and energetic atmosphere suits a fun night out or a casual dinner. Clean space works well for quick, satisfying meals alone or with friends.

People are saying

"The food service here is super friendly and attentive."

"This casual spot has fresh, flavorful meats and seafood."

"Our server Rose made our Dinner With Friends experience so memorable and top-notch."

Good to know

1

You have a time limit of 2 hours for your meal.

2

The price for the all-you-can-eat option is $22 per person.

3

Unlimited appetizers are available during your meal.

08
Elephant Ear image 1
Thai restaurant

Boho chic design creates a tropical, relaxing atmosphere with comfortable seating and attractive lighting. Interactive hibachi chefs provide live entertainment including jokes and musical acts, adding energy without overwhelming noise. Late hours suit those seeking a chill spot after shows.

Offers a solid spot for dinner with friends after a long day. Serves well for last-minute plans and casual group meals.

A casual, fun vibe sets the tone for both dinner and lunch here. The atmosphere suits small groups and works well for a relaxed night out or a simple meal with friends.

People are saying

"The soup dumplings here are amazing, juicy, and flavorful."

"The Thai food here is bursting with fresh, bold flavors."

"The service for Dinner With Friends was so helpful and attentive."

Good to know

1

The Hells Kitchen musical is currently showing on Broadway.

2

Elephant Ear is open until 12:00 AM.

3

Elephant Ear can accommodate last minute reservations for large groups.

09
Chi Restaurant & Bar image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious interior with tasteful decoration and private rooms suits large groups and offers dog-friendly indoor seating. Atmosphere combines lively energy with occasional background noise and high temperature. Cocktails and unique Asian dishes complement the vibrant dining experience.

Sleek and cozy ambiance suits casual dinners with friends. The vibe stays perfect for relaxed gatherings and comfortable conversations.

Works well for casual gatherings with family and friends. Suitable for both lunch and dinner in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The food here is truly amazing and delicious."

"The casual Chinese food here has bold, well-balanced flavors."

"Dinner with friends here is delicious and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 pm during the week with food and drink specials.

2

Lunch specials are available and offer good value.

3

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up after 6 PM.

10
Top Thai 55 Carmine image 1
Thai restaurant

Big space crowded with many tables creates a congested atmosphere. Loud sound levels make it hard to relax, but authentic Thai decor and outdoor dining area add unique charm. Occasional birthday celebrations bring lively energy to the place.

The spot offers a chill atmosphere ideal for relaxed dinners. It suits both casual dates and gatherings with friends.

Warm and inviting atmosphere suits casual dinners and chill nights with friends. Food and drinks match the vibe, making it a solid spot for relaxed dining or special occasions.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The food here is so flavorful and perfectly spiced."

"Dinner With Friends here has flavorful, fresh soups and juicy, flavorful steak."

Good to know

1

Happy hour cocktails are available until 7pm with diverse and affordable options.

2

Reservations are necessary as the restaurant can get crowded, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant has a table time limit, so be prepared to finish your meal promptly.

11
Boucherie Union Square image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers an elegant Parisian-inspired decor with a beautiful high ceiling entrance and a long bar that draws people for cocktails. The atmosphere is lively and crowded, with pounding music that fills the space and creates a high noise level. Tables sit close together, adding to the energetic and bustling vibe.

Atmosphere suits big groups well, making it easy to enjoy a nice dinner with friends. Food and setting support a fabulous shared meal experience.

Food suits casual lunches with a straightforward, no-frills approach. Atmosphere fits both casual get-togethers and special occasions without fuss.

People are saying

"The food here is awesome and top-notch."

"Dinner with friends here has fantastic food and service."

"It's a lively and casual experience here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price cocktails.

2

On Sundays, enjoy $10 glasses of wine during happy hour.

3

Monday happy hour features a selection of discounted drinks.

12
OLIO E PIร™ image 1
Restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful interior with close tables creating a loud, lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating provides a laid-back, cozy patio experience with plants and heating. Crowds fill the space, making it energetic and bustling.

Cozy, European vibe with pretty lights and decor creates a romantic trattoria feel. Casual enough for a girlsโ€™ night or dinner with friends.

Effortless casual air blends with a cozy European vibe featuring pretty decor and soft lights. The setting suits both a romantic trattoria feel and relaxed gatherings with friends.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"It's a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for casual gatherings."

"Our Dinner With Friends was made special by the kind and attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 3 PM and offers great deals.

2

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Olio offers a three-course dinner during New York restaurant week.

13
Boucherie West Village image 1
French restaurant

French restaurant offers casual chic dining with an elegant, warm interior and a beautiful patio featuring direct sunlight and a protective roof. Atmosphere feels like a Parisian brasserie, inviting and lively with attentive staff. Outdoor seating becomes crowded on nice days, creating a bustling vibe.

Cozy atmosphere suits casual dinners and date nights well. Great spot for gathering with friends in a relaxed setting.

Dining feels casual chic with relaxed pacing that lets you enjoy your meal without rush. Staff create a welcoming vibe suited for cozy date nights or casual dinners with friends.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and very good."

"The food here is so yummy and comforting."

"Dinner with friends here feels like a cozy escape to Paris."

Good to know

1

There is a 50% off selected wines from January 1st to February 12th.

2

Happy hour is only at the bar from 2 PM to 7 PM.

3

Wine bottles are 50% off till the end of February.

14
SAPPEISAN image 1
Thai restaurant

Neon-lit space with bold retro decor and vibrant accent lights creates a lively atmosphere. Loud noise levels make conversation difficult, while Thai music from a jukebox adds cultural flavor. Frequented by groups enjoying private nooks and a full bar serving creative cocktails every few minutes.

Dishes come in easily shareable portions, making it simple to try a variety with friends. The spot suits celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries and works well for casual dinners or date nights.

Design suits dates, birthdays, casual nights out. Offers a satisfying meal in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and well seasoned."

"This casual spot's food is packed with fresh, authentic flavors."

"Dinner With Friends here is made extra enjoyable by the friendly, attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Lines start to form after 7 PM on weeknights.

2

Happy hour starts at 8 pm.

3

You need reservations as it is busy.

15
La Grande Boucherie image 1
French restaurant

Belle ร‰poque building houses a Parisian bistro style restaurant with a beautiful bar and huge outdoor seating area sheltered from rain. The atmosphere feels classy and cozy, enhanced by jazz music and elegant decor. The pub room offers a comfortable, fun space for casual meals without reservations.

A relaxing atmosphere suits dinners with friends well. The bar offers a great spot for drinks and casual meals together.

Charm and elegance mix with a casual vibe here. It suits both special occasions and relaxed dinners with a touch of sophistication.

People are saying

"The French food here is served in a gorgeous, grand interior."

"The service here is friendly, attentive, and makes the experience delightful."

"Dinner With Friends here is amazing, especially the filet au poivre."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available at this bar, which is hard to find in NYC these days.

2

The happy hour at Bench offers great prices.

3

You should make reservations at La Grande Boucherie because they are super packed.

16
Signature Steak image 1
Restaurant

Upscale sports bar with modern black-and-white decor and large screen TVs creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Dim, private lounge offers a contrasting intimate vibe with great music. Signature cocktails and well-crafted drinks stand out amid close seating and energetic crowds.

Great for dinner with friends or a date night with a relaxed ambiance that encourages lingering over delicious food.

Food suits both casual dining and upscale date nights. Venue fits well for casual hangouts and special occasions.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are thoughtful, indulgent, and expertly executed."

"Dinner with friends here means perfectly cooked steak and flavorful salmon."

"It's a laid-back yet refined vibe with subtle lighting."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

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