A Dozen Metro Phoenix Spots Dying to Host Your Holiday Party

If your goal is to throw a holiday party, you already know that the first hurdle you need to jump is finding the perfect spot. Whether you're looking for hip, elegant, intimate, spacious, scenic, or any combination of these styles, there are all kinds of places to fit your needs. We've put together a list of potential places to help you settle on something. Here are 14 metro Phoenix restaurants that would be golden for a holiday bash.

Phoenix Ale Brewery Central Kitchen

Whether you're in need of a private or semi-private room, this north central location of the Phoenix Ale Brewery gives you either option, along with patio space for partying outdoors. The menu is loaded with pub fare, from crispy wings to pretzel bites, as well as entrees including cast iron mac and cheese, pizzas, and fried chicken. Signature brews range from light and fruity to hearty and dense. To inquire about planning your party, call 602-313-8713  or email [email protected].

J&G Steakhouse

If it's a scenic view you're after, this restaurant atop the Phoenician resort fits the bill. The eatery serves a slate of classics reinterpreted by legendary New York chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten. We're talking about seafood on ice, perfectly seared steaks, and that kind of classic. For your party, you can buy out the entire restaurant or book one of the two private dining rooms. The spacious outdoor patio is also available for your event. Contact Elena Torres at 480-214-8000 or email [email protected].

Southern Rail

Located at The Newton in Phoenix, Southern Rail has become a favorite for those who like Southern-inspired dishes like grits and jambalaya. Helmed by chef Justin Beckett, the restaurant also features an array of cocktails and a Wine Spectator-award-winning wine list. As for private dining space, Southern Rail's room comes decked out with a 62” flat-panel TV as well as privacy shutters and curtains. The room fits a party of 30 or fewer. For inquires, call 602-200-0085 or email [email protected].

 DeSoto Central Market

Whether you're planning a party for 15 or 600, the DeSoto Central Market in downtown Phoenix can accommodate your celebratory needs.This hot spot is equipped for holiday partying (or any kind of partying, really). With two full bars and six kitchens, this hipster hang \out can handle pretty much any kind of catering situation, plus there's plenty of indoor space and a dog-friendly outdoor patio. By day, the space is always flooded with picture-worthy natural light. When you're done eating, you're already right in the heart of the downtown nightlife scene. If you have an idea for an event, email [email protected].

 Citizen Public House

This sleek and comfortable restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale offers an 18-seat semi-private alcove, as well as a 36-seat private speakeasy located above the restaurant. Either way, chef Bernie Kantak's restaurant is ready to help create a custom menu for you and your guests. To book the restaurant for your holiday shindig, contact Robin Geraci at [email protected] or 480-708-7180.

Sassi

Recently, this north Scottsdale restaurant announced its closure date as June 2018, so now's the time to book your party. The elegant venue can handle parties as small as eight and as large as 170. Multiple private room options include a relaxed garden terrace, a more traditional dining room, and a cozy wine cellar that features a vaulted brick ceiling and views of the restaurant's impressive wine cache. Call 480-502-9095 or email [email protected] for more info.

Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

Fun fact: This award-winning cocktail bar is housed inside the former office of the Arizona Prohibition Headquarters. Elevated cocktails, tasty food, and a hip and stylish atmosphere has made this establishment a downtown destination. From intimate cocktail receptions to a full venue buyout for a 120-guest maximum, you have some range at this drinkery. Email [email protected] for all the information.


Marcellino Ristorante

Seasonal Italian cuisine from handmade pastas to fresh seafood dishes can be a part of your holiday bash at this restaurant. A private dining room with a wooden table for 14 offers a warm and personal dining experience. Other options include a semi-private room for 15 to 40, enclosed by tall mahogany shutters, or the patio with its scenic waterfall for a small group. Ask about full buyouts as well. Contact Bettina at 480-990-9500.

St. Francis

This modern central Phoenix restaurant specializes in wood-fired cuisine, from warm and crusty bread to roasted meats and vegetables. The stylish spot is a classic 1955 building renovated in 2009; it's got a homey feel. From the spacious patio to the more intimate mezzanine, there are different ways to tailor and plan your event. Chef Aaron Chamberlin's eats are bound to impress. Email [email protected].

The Duce

Between the boxing ring, dance floor, full bar, and foosball table, The Duce in downtown Phoenix has pretty much everything your guests could want in a holiday party venue. The Prohibition-themed venue has space for both indoor and outdoor eating and drinking, making it a natural choice for your holiday event. To start planning, call 602-866-3823 or email [email protected].

Cowboy Ciao

Give your guests a real Southwest experience this holiday season by hosting your event at Cowboy Ciao, one of Scottsdale's classic dining destinations. Cowboy Ciao has been known for its quirky, Western decor, impressive wine list, and Southwestern fare. The restaurant has private dining space for large or mid-size parties but will accommodate groups as small as six. For sample group menus or a customized proposal, contact event planner Nancy Watson at [email protected] or call 480-946-3111.

Dominick's Steakhouse

If you want a glamorous party with a high wow factor, get familiar with Dominick's Steakhouse in Scottsdale. The place has a modern interior decorated in rich browns and offers a rooftop patio and several cozy dining spaces. For private parties, you can choose from options including the restaurant's wine room, executive room, and library — all of which come with art audio and visual capabilities. The restaurant will create custom menus and can accommodate parties ranging from eight to 350 people. To start planning an event, contact Madison Rose at [email protected] or call 480-272-7271.

Olive & Ivy

This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant not only has two private dining rooms and a large outdoor patio with views of the Scottsdale waterfront, but also an impressive wine selection and food that's both approachable and exciting. For smaller private events, Olive & Ivy offers The Gold Room, which comes with a round table for 12, a Murano glass light fixture, and patio access. Larger events can look to The Stamp Room or the patio, which features multiple fireplaces and water features. To book an event, email [email protected] or call 480-905-3273.