Looking for an inexpensive resturant around Macy's that can accommodate a group of around 30 for a Saturday around 5:00 p.m.

This one's a gamble but worth checking into - there's a terrific Italian place on W 38th between 7th and 8th called Veronica's Ristorante Italiano. They serve cafeteria style and weekday lunches only but perhaps they'd make arrangements for a Saturday dinner if the group was large enough and they got a deposit? I've seen multiple rave reviews in the chowhound.com message boards and their prices are low. There is also a TGI Friday's or Ruby Tuesday's at corner of 34th and 8th. NOt my idea of a place to eat when in NYC but their prices are moderate.

I answered this question on another thread yesterday...my suggestion was Carmine's on West 44th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues...(212)221-3800...they will probably be able to accomodate you if you call in advance...they serve family style and the food is good and plentiful...Macy's has a few restaurants located on different floors throughout the store, but I don't know if they can accomodate your group...there's a steakhouse called Keen's on West 36th Street, but it's not inexpensive...there are also the usual chain fast food places such as McDonald's, Wendy's, pizza, etc....there's a Houlihan's on the corner of 34th and 5th, or at least there was.

Thought I should mention Merilee... Keen's just got some very bad comments from multiple people in the same Chowhound.com forum. Apparently they may have change ownership/management in the past few years? I always knew of it to be a very good steakhouse but the current reactions indicate that it's really gone downhill.

Carmine's is a GREAT place to eat.. depends on how you're paying for it.. usually it's a BIG bowl of food divided amongst you...
Lucy

Other restaurants good for large groups are Ruby Foo's, Virgil's BBQ.

Owen, or anyone else, can you tell me if Andrews Coffee Shops are still around? There was one around 35th & 7th Avenue and another on Madison in the 34th Street area (33rd?). Also, is Christine's Polish American Restaurant at 208 1st Avenue the one that used to be on Lexington at about 39th St? Thanks.

There's an Andrew's at 38th or 39th and Broadway. Don't know about the ones you mentioned. Not familiar with Christines.