Product Launch Party-- Good Venue??

We are having a product launch party in November. Most of our attendess will be staying at the Convention Center and we would like to host the party within walking distance. Numbers will be about 45-60. We are going to do a butler passed wine service, heavy apps, etc. I want a restaurant that%26#39;s relatively classy, with a comfortable space for the larger group size. Atmosphere is important as well as quality service, food, etc. We cater to pharmacists so I%26#39;m not looking for a swanky or club scene...you get the idea.

Any ideas??

Product Launch Party-- Good Venue??

Although I generally stay away from chains, I really like Maggianos and I think it fits want you want perfectly. Good food, banquet rooms/menus, atmosphere, close to the convention center, etc.

Product Launch Party-- Good Venue??

I was at a private party last month at the Maggiano%26#39;s downtown and thought it was terrible. Service, food all lacking.

One place that came to mind that was close was Sotto Varelli.

http://www.varalliusa.com/

I have also gone to private events at the Ritz, which have always been top notch. Not sure if that is the direction you would like to go in. ( well within walking distance).

Just something to think about - maybe the Downtown Club would be an appropriate venue? They offer a number of rooms to accomodate a variety of capacities and the building itself boasts a wonderful view of Philadelphia. Just an idea...

Suzanne

I was just at the Downtown Club three weeks ago for an event and they did a fabulous job!

I%26#39;ve been to several events at the downtown club, all except one were excellent and the exception would be rated very good (don%26#39;t think it was their fault either, music was too loud!)

Their website is located at: http://www.downtownclub.com/index.html

It would be about a 7 block walk from the conv center? (someone check my math)

Loonbeam~ I think that the acoustics are off in the main room of TDC. A live band had preformed at the event we were at three weeks ago and they didn%26#39;t sound the same as they had previously at other events.

That would make sense then. Was about a year ago, just a DJ but sounded off.

Looking at the chart, they would not need the main room for this..

I had a private party at the KOP Maggiano%26#39;s a few months ago, I thought the food was ok, but I was not impressed enough to want to go back. We had a party of about 40-50. and could have fit comfortably another 20.

Ehh...Maggiano%26#39;s. As everyone here pretty much knows, I am not a fan of chain restaurants, although Maggiano%26#39;s is better than many of its counterparts. But I%26#39;d still give it a miss.

Another option could be the top floor of the Loews Hotel in Philly - my husband had his holiday party there last year. Good food, great views.

Suzanne

THANK YOU all so much. I have never used this type of forum before but being completely unfamiliar with Philadelphia I though I would give it a try and its been extremely helpful.

I am currently making a decision between the Ritz and Varalli. Downtown Club was booked. Both the Ritz and Varalli were two I would have never found and either one will be perfect for our dinner, as well as in walking distance.

So, thanks again. I very much appreciate the input.

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