Where to Host the Best Holiday Office Party of 2015

Big box stores are adorned with santas and reindeer, the annual debate of what we can or should say in greeting to one another has begun, and Starbucks sparked a faux-outrage over paper cups. That can only mean one thing; The holiday season is upon us, and that means holiday parties. Whether you are hosting a dinner party for your company, or just entertaining friends, here are some bars and restaurants that offer spaces, food, and drinks for all of your private dining needs.
 

For a more casual holiday party, you can rent out the Rally Room of Shut Up and Eat, a killer sandwich spot in outer SE. This private space has a movie projector, sound system, and bathroom, with seating for up to 40 people. Renting the room is free, and hosts have the option between the larger catering menu or letting their guests order (and pay) for themselves off of the regular menu. While the restaurant is counter service, servers are provided for the space, which does require automatic gratuity. A charge may be applied if the space is reserved after the restaurant normally closes. Reserve the Rally Room here, or call 503-719-6449. (3848 SE Gladstone St.)
 

The Italian food at Renata is some of the most popular in the city, and while it may not be the most traditional for a holiday party, your guests probably would not mind. The private dining space in Renata is intimate, with room for 14 seated guests, or 20 standing. Rates are discussed with the coordinator, but food and drink prices start at a minimum of $600 during the week, and $700 for the weekend. There is also the option for buying out the entire restaurant for a more extravagant event. Fill out a request form here, or call the events coordinator at 503-702-7874. (626 SE Main St.)
 

This wine bar offers two spaces available for private parties. The first is The River Room, whose main draw is the view of the Willamette River. During the holiday season, seating is available for up to 55 standing or 35 seated, while the summer months see the space open up for outdoor seating. During the winter, a large fireplace keeps the space cozy as guests dine at bistro tables or in comfy leather chairs. There is also a private bar in the room.
 

The second space is the Cellar, which features a more formal dining space with boardroom tables. Up to 45 guests can comfortably dine, or 55 for a more reception based event. Again, there is a private bar available. Rates and menus vary by season and time of day. More information can be found here. (0315 SW Montgomery St., #330-360)
 

Coquine hasn’t been open a year yet and is already garnering multiple accolades, including Eater’s Restaurant of the Year award. We looked at the lovely cocktail menu this past summer. Coquine doesn’t offer a private dining room, but it does offer the possibility of buying out the entire restaurant. You would be hard pressed to find a better chef than Katy Millard to impress your holiday guests. Call 503-384-2483 for inquiries. (6839 SE Belmont St.)
 

Departure Restaurant and Lounge
With one of the best views in Portland, and one of the most celebrated chefs, Gregory Gourdet, Departure makes an amazing destination for your holiday party. Departure offers spaces in four areas of the restaurant: The State Room, The East Deck, The Sea of Love (an intimate 13 person dining room available for three hours), and The West Deck. All spaces have a required food and beverage minimum and tiered pricing menus of Departure’s modern Asian cuisine. Cocktails are available to suit your special occasion. Book your reservation online here, or contact Carrie Kissel at 503-802-4642 or carrie.kissell@sagerestaurantgroup.com for larger groups. (525 SW Morrison St.)

Photo via Departure