chopped liver

June 28, 2009 8:05 AM

interested in renting a (very affordable) small space (auditorium, banquet hall, etc) for a "roast" for a friend's birthday in november in new york city.

our needs would be simple: some tables, some electricity, and the ability to BYO if necessary. we have the PA already. it DEFINITELY does not have to be "fancy" or "formal" in any way. in fact, the more creative, classic, dive-y and the like would be better; think sammy's roumanian house, or an old high school that rents its big auditoriums out.

we're probably going to be around 30 people; the thing is, we are all students or work in non-profits, so something cheap/affordable really is the priority here (thinking $20 max per person if possible). it also needn't be a weekend night, so perhaps something during the week is cheaper...

thanks!

also, suggestions to roast material (other than reviewing old movies) is also highly welcomed!

posted by yonation to sports, hobbies, & recreation (4 comments total)

At that price point, which seems way low to me, especially for NYC, I might suggest checking with your local VFW, American Legion and other fraternal organizations. They often rent out their meeting halls and I haven't seen one yet that couldn't accommodate a crowd of 30.

Another idea - I planned an alumni reception at a Steak & Ale years ago for about 30 people, with guest speakers and a film presentation. The room will be free - and someplace at the Steak & Ale quality level shouldn't run too much more than $20 a head for dinner and a drink. It won't be BYO obviously.
posted by COD at 8:51 AM on June 28

COD, and others reading this thread: if $20 is way too little, i understand obviously, andd am open to suggestions of more expensive places. but again, we really would love to go cheap (and maybe some kind MetaFilterer owns/knows of a small place we could go to...).
posted by yonation at 9:07 AM on June 28

I put on an event at Madam X and was reasonably happy about it.
posted by aquafortis at 9:51 AM on June 28

As COD says, call up the Masonic lodge closest to you. They typically have medium-sized halls that aren't being used every night. The bonus of calling them first is, typically they are friendly, helpful people. Even if their space isn't ideal for you, they might know of one that is or give you someone's number.

Also, does it have to be exclusive, or can it be the back room of some place like a bowling alley or Chuck E. Cheese? Lots of places do private parties.
posted by ctmf at 10:01 AM on June 28