Union Square Cafe

What groups say

Groups book the upstairs private room or mezzanine alcove for birthdays, corporate dinners and private events, usually on a limited set menu.

• Private events use upstairs spaces, described as a back room and a mezzanine alcove, in a multi-level room with high ceilings.
• Reported group sizes range from 6 to a 32-person 50th birthday party served four courses.
• Large-party events run on a limited preset menu; reviewers note little flexibility for substitutions or picky eaters.
• One family party of 7 reported just over $700 including tip ordering a la carte at lunch.

Drawn from 70 Google reviews of Union Square Cafe that mention a group, a private room or a celebration, read September 2026. The reviews below describe a group visit, private rooms and larger events first, with the critical ones kept in.

• private room dinner

  Legendary spot in Union Sq. I last ate here a LONG time ago, but recently enjoyed a large group dinner in the private dining room. The pros: the restaurant cares about quality -- and the limited menu from which we had to choose was really smart. I'm not a dessert person, but I will admit that the tiramisu was truly outstanding. Also my fish was cooked perfectly and the broccoli appetizer fantastic. The reasons to pause: I'm a picky eater and I don't like "surprise" ingredients in my dishes. I also really like flexibility in the kitchen. Neither expectation proved totally realistic in this case. Also, the wine we were served (at least the first bottle of Sancerre from which I was served) was corked. But I recognize balancing service and quality with such a large group is challenging. Overall, I feel this spot still deserves a special place in NYC restaurant history and it's a fine spot for individuals who don't mind eating at a very large and famous institution.

• 50th birthday party, party of 32

  Attended a large 50th birthday party (32 people). The servers were the utmost professionals and very efficient. My server went out of her way to make sure they gave me a vegan dish for each of four courses. So gracious and accommodating! And the food was delicious! Loved the artwork!

• mezzanine alcove event

  I was recently at an event at the Union Square Cafe; we were upstairs in the mezzanine alcove. We really enjoyed the evening- the host-Paul-really exemplified hospitality and helped make the evening work. Food was great and enough variety to work for the entire party. Thanks!

• corporate network dinner

  I was here for a network dinner upstairs in the backroom for a dedicated event. The food was tasty enough and the mixed drinks were solid. The location is unassuming from the outside but spacious with high ceilings. Close to union Square it's a solid option id recommend for a descent meal and good drinks. Not cheap though.

• group dinner, party of 6

  We were a party of six and five out of six loved their entree. I ordered the roasted trumpet mushrooms and they were raw, rubbery, and tasteless. There was some type of sauce which was bland as well. Very disappointing for the reputation of the restaurant. I do recommend this lovely venue but order anything but the shrooms.

Good to know

Danny Meyer's first restaurant serves seasonal New American fare in a casually refined setting.

Hours, spend and amenities from Google. Private event hours and minimums are set by the restaurant.

Frequently asked questions

Does Union Square Cafe have a private dining room?

Union Square Cafe offers a semi-private dining space for groups rather than a fully enclosed room. Flexible private/semi-private spaces for various party sizes.

How much does it cost to book a private event at Union Square Cafe?

Guests at Union Square Cafe typically spend $50 to $100 per person on a regular visit, according to Google, before drinks and tip. A private room or group booking is usually priced on a food and beverage minimum that scales from that per-head figure rather than a flat room fee. Minimums run higher on Friday and Saturday nights and through December. Contact Union Square Cafe for the current minimum and deposit terms.

When is Union Square Cafe open?

Union Square Cafe is open Monday to Friday 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM, and Saturday and Sunday 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM, serving brunch, lunch and dinner. The restaurant takes reservations for regular tables. Private rooms can often be booked outside these hours, including daytime events, so ask when you inquire.

What kind of restaurant is Union Square Cafe?

Union Square Cafe is a $$$ New American restaurant in East Village, New York City, rated 4.6 stars across 2,570 Google reviews. Google describes it as: Danny Meyer's first restaurant serves seasonal New American fare in a casually refined setting. It has a wheelchair accessible entrance.

What do guests say about group dining at Union Square Cafe?

Groups book the upstairs private room or mezzanine alcove for birthdays, corporate dinners and private events, usually on a limited set menu. Private events use upstairs spaces, described as a back room and a mezzanine alcove, in a multi-level room with high ceilings. Reported group sizes range from 6 to a 32-person 50th birthday party served four courses. Large-party events run on a limited preset menu; reviewers note little flexibility for substitutions or picky eaters. One family party of 7 reported just over $700 including tip ordering a la carte at lunch. Reviewers praise: attentive, professional service even with large parties; dietary needs handled well, including vegan and gluten-free courses; smartly edited limited menu for big groups; spacious upstairs rooms with high ceilings. Watch for: kitchen inflexible on substitutions during group menus; not cheap; entrees run roughly $35 to $68; a large private party upstairs can slow service to other tables. Based on 70 Google reviews of Union Square Cafe that mention a group, a private room or a celebration.

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