1. Juniper & Ivy
Juniper & Ivy, the new restaurant from chef Richard Blais, opened in February near Little Italy. Serving what he describes as "refined American food with left-coast edge," the stylish space mixes exposed rafters and ducts with chic, neutral-toned circular booths. A second-floor private dining room overlooking the bar and a floor-to-ceiling wine wall seats 45 or holds 60 for receptions. Semiprivate options on the main floor offer seating for 75 or room for 85-person receptions. Smaller groups can meet on a patio, which holds 50 for receptions, or reserve spots at the chef's table, which seats as many as 14.