I'm hosting a dinner for 12 people in December - some friends but mostly colleagues of DF and their partners. Can you suggest a restaurant, beautiful setting, intimate, nice lighting, maybe some history and character, excellent food. Comfortable but elegant, not stuffy. Open to price and location. Thank you.

With a party of 12, you might want to think twice about an intimate space, because most other diners will be couples, and your group would overwhelm the room. Or if you do want an intimate space, then go for a private dining room.

For a place that can accommodate 12 easily, and would suit all palates, check out Maceo.

http://www.maceorestaurant.com/album...42/7459180.htm

This link might be more useful about Maceo

http://www.maceorestaurant.com/Maceo...venements.html

May I know what kind of food are you interested in? For a party of 12, maybe you can consider Benjamin's Home Restaurant. He was a contestant of Top Chef and my friends and I were in Paris last summer and booked his meals for a birthday party. It was really a nice experience, he was introducing to us how he prepares his meals and sharing about the parisian culture.

I've been here twice for private events - one a business meeting and the other a wedding. The rooms can't be beat for atmosphere, the service was good and the food was, too. http://www.laperouse.com/

I've also been to a couple of lunch and dinner meetings at Maceo - I don't think the rooms compare with Laperouse at all, and did not find the food very interesting, either. Don't know why everybody raves about this place - I think the people who chose it when I went just did it for the location, which was convenient for work.

Have a look at Chez Les Anges in the 7th too, which has a Michelin Bib Gourmand rating. It is a lovely restaurant, with elegant decor, and very friendly and helpful staff. They also have a private room for groups up to 12.

http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/742176

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the suggestions. Since my last post the number catapulted to 16 but realistically it might be 18 when all's done. Any more ideas? Thanks.

You've gotten good responses. What else are you looking for? Do you have a certain price level in mind?