Feast and Fete

Photo by Person+Killian

Grill 23 & Bar

We challenge you to find a guy who doesn’t walk into Grill 23 and grin like a fool. With its mahogany paneling, massive Corinthian columns, marble accents, brass detailing, oak floors, and new high-tech A/V system, this spot just feels undeniably manly. That’s not to say that women don’t also appreciate Grill 23’s clubby feel — and its prime dry-aged beef and extensive wine list. The Exeter Suite upstairs accommodates 26 and has a cozy fireplace perfect for evening affairs. Even better, the happy couple gets a dedicated chef and staff for the party. Now look who’s smiling. >> 161 Berkeley St., Boston, 617-542-2255, grill23.com.

Erbaluce

If we could take one chef with us to a deserted island, it would be Erbaluce owner Charles Draghi. The man knows how to cook just about anything found in the wild: braised sunflowers with herbed ricotta; rack of wild boar roasted over walnut shells. When the rescue boat arrived, we’d wave it away and continue feasting. So just imagine the delicious morsels Draghi can dream up for your get-together. Erbaluce’s private dining room holds up to 75, and while the décor is low-key, the food is as vibrant as can be. >> 69 Church St., Boston, 617-426-6969, erbaluce-boston.com.