Hey there, fellow food lover! As someone who’s been to Owings Mills for few times, I’ve had the chance to chow down at pretty much every restaurant in town. Whether I’m grabbing a bite with my family, celebrating a friend’s birthday, or even hosting a big ol’ group gathering, I’ve got the inside scoop on the best spots to accommodate a hungry crowd.
Over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about where to go when you need to feed a bunch of people. It doesn’t matter if it’s a fancy business lunch, a birthday bash, or even a sports team victory party – Owings Mills has got you covered!
I’ve put together a list of my all-time favorite restaurants that know how to cater to groups like pros. Trust me, these places have seen it all and can handle any kind of dining situation you throw their way.
Evaluate Group Size and Budget
Before deciding on a restaurant in Owings Mills, the first things to consider are the size of your group and your general budget. How many people need to be seated? What’s the per person budget for food and beverages? Getting a handle on these factors will help narrow the list down. For instance, some restaurants may not be able to accommodate very large parties, like more than 12-15 people, especially on short notice. And other dining spots may be a bit too expensive if you’re feeding a crowd and looking for quantity over luxury. Assessing these details upfront makes it easier to select the right restaurant fit.
Ask About Group Menus and Packages
Once you have a restaurant in mind, be sure to inquire about any group packages or menus they offer. Many Owings Mills restaurants catering to group events will have preset multi-course menus at a fixed price for large parties. This takes the guesswork out of ordering for a crowd. The restaurant handles the food planning and you get to enjoy a stress-free meal. Some may also allow you to customize a menu by selecting dishes in advance. And a select few eateries also have private dining rooms specifically for group events, giving you a more intimate setting. Asking about what group amenities are available is key to having the best dining experience possible.
My Go-To Picks for Group Dining
Of all the restaurants I’ve been to with family and friends over the years, a few go-to picks stand out as prime spots for accommodating group dining needs in Owings Mills. Based on variables like menu options, pricing, private spaces, etc. here are my top recommendations:
The Oregon Grille
As one of the most popular fine dining restaurants in Owings Mills, The Oregon Grille has fantastic food and excellent service that’s perfect for celebratory group meals. They have a variety of spaces like the Hunt Valley Room that can host more than 100 guests reception style. Food is superb, with mouthwatering wood-grilled meats, seafood and signature cocktails. It’s on the pricier side but worth it for a special occasion with a group, like a retirement party or graduation celebration. Be sure to inquire about group menus and book well in advance.
Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet
When it comes to having an abundant variety of food at an affordable per-person price point, Hibachi Grill and Supreme Buffet can’t be beaten. Their massive buffet lineup with Asian, American and hibachi fare means everyone in your group can get exactly what they like. Portion sizes are generous and menu items are continuously refreshed. Plus they have hibachi tables where an expert chef prepares noodles, rice and meat dishes with flare right before your eyes – an ideal option for feeding and entertaining big groups, especially kids! It does get busy on weekends though so I recommend an early dinner reservation for larger parties.
Pairings Bistro
For a more upscale atmosphere with gourmet food at reasonable prices, Pairings Bistro has superb group packages perfect for celebrating special occasions or hosting corporate gatherings. Their private dining room accommodates up to 45 guests with homey farm tables in a vibrant French country decor. And you get to select in advance all menu items being served family style, from a choice of salads, entrees like short ribs bourguignon or seared salmon, sides and desserts. Staff are very attentive to groups. And it’s centrally located right in Owings Mills town center, easy for guests to get to. Love Pairings for milestone birthdays or retirement parties.
Mission BBQ
If you have a casual work group, sports team or any party where good comfort food is a priority over ambiance, then Mission BBQ fits the bill. They excel at serving large crowds with fan favorite American classics like juicy ribs, pulled pork, wings and smoked brisket by the pound. Patrol the buffet of sides like mac & cheese, green beans and cornbread to add to your meaty plate. Seating sprawls throughout with long picnic tables so big groups can eat together. And patriotic decor celebrates first responders. Reasonably pricedbuckets of signature meats make Mission BBQ in Owings Mills an ideal spot for feeding a team or hosting a large family.
Fogo de Chão
When only the finest quality Brazilian steakhouse will do, Fogo de Chão is the ultimate group dining splurge for meat lovers. This globally renowned dining concept brings the centuries-old Southern Brazilian churrasco tradition stateside with expert Gaucho chefs roaming the dining room, carving slow-roasted meats tableside off spinning skewers. The dazzling Market Table starts your meal with seasonal salads, cured meats, imported cheeses and more. Then embark on the full churrasco dining experience by sampling unlimited cuts of signature fire-roasted meats like picanha sirloin, lamb chops and linguica sausage. An upscale contemporary space with private dining rooms, Fogo caters well to large parties celebrating milestone events. While a more expensive restaurant, the white tablecloth service and endless parade of succulent, fork-tender proteins makes Fogo worth the price, especially when shared family style. This is my top pick for celebrating graduations, showers and intimate weddings.
Tark’s Grill
For affordably priced American favorites from burgers and flatbreads to salads and sandwiches, Tark’s Grill is a local staple perfect for casual group brunches after church or early dinner gatherings with friends and family. With a comfortable rustic interior anchored around a striking wood- burning oven, guests feel right at home bellying up to the bar or digging into hearty helpings of familiar cuisine from this innovative grill. Try their hot sub sandwiches or custom pizzas baked in the fiery oven as great group meal shareables.
Tark’s also has daily dinner specials like comfort food Mac & Cheese Mondays and $12.99 Steak Tuesdays that make feeding a crowd easy on the wallet. Gluten-free and vegetarian friendly menu options also abound. And the restaurant’s Owings Mills location is right off I-795, making it conveniently accessible for groups. For good times with good friends or casual family functions, Tark’s Grill checks all the boxes.
Coal Fire Pizza
Coal Fire Pizza For freshly baked artisan pizza pies, housemade pastas, paninis and big garden salads served up at modest prices, the welcoming confines Coal Fire attracts crowds. Groups large and small can imbibe local craft beers at the angular bar before indulging in cheesy pepperoni or margherita pizzas fired fast in the namesake coal ovens. Campfire-style seating and exposed filament bulbs add warmth. While reservations aren’t taken, the efficient staff has no issue promptly seating and serving big parties. I recently hosted 16 extended family members here on a Friday evening and we took over half the restaurant, easily accommodated and well cared for. The generously sized pies and pastas make dining both delicious and economical, especially with groups taking advantage of ongoing specials. Gluten-free crust also available. Ideal for casual employee gatherings, scout troops or low-key birthday dinners.
Mimi’s Bistro
Mimi’s Bistro For French-Mediterranean fare in a cozy, romantic atmosphere, Mimi’s Bistro entices groups seeking quality global cuisine at affordable neighborhood prices. Daily chalkboard specials like Bouillabaisse seafood stew, pan-roasted duck breast a l’orange and rainbow trout amandine lineup alongside staples like escargot, onion soup au gratin, creamy risotto and decadent crème brûlée. An intimate space with warm decor, Mimi’s has superb food at reasonable prices. I often book long candlelit tables for large parties celebrating special occasions like engagement dinners or wine-paired rehearsal events. With most main courses under $30, it’s a delicious value. And the refined yet casual setting encourages groups to linger for hours over bottles of Chianti, savoring Mediterranean small plates and offering up endless toasts around the table. A local gem for memorable group dining evenings graced with Mimi’s signature hospitality.
Manor Hill Tavern
For locally sourced farm-fresh American cuisine with Belgian flair, Manor Hill Tavern has an intimate vibe perfect for group gatherings of family and friends. Their carved up chalkboard menus change with the seasons, overflowing with tasty share plates and beers on draft. I’ve enjoyed many birthdays and brunches here with groups that take over the wood-laden bar area and surrounding community tables for a leisurely feast. Staff is very accommodating for large parties. Be sure to try their jalapeño duck poppers, BYOB bloody mary bar and homemade doughnuts if you have a group. Outstanding food and chill environment make Manor Hill Tavern a reliable choice.
Final Words
Alright, folks! I hope this little guide has given you a solid starting point for finding the perfect spot for your next big group dining adventure in Owings Mills. Whether you’re rolling with a small crew or a massive party, on a tight budget or ready to splurge, looking for a casual hangout or a fancy schmancy venue – there’s a restaurant on this list that’s got your back!
Once you’ve narrowed down your top picks, don’t forget to hit up the restaurant and ask about their group menus and pricing options. Trust me, it pays to be prepared! Oh, and if you’re planning on bringing a seriously big group, make sure to book those reservations early. Especially if you’re hoping to snag a private dining room – those bad boys can fill up fast! A little extra planning can go a long way in making sure your whole party has an unforgettable dining experience. So, go forth and eat, my friends!
Of course, if you’ve got any other burning questions about organizing a group dining shindig in Owings Mills, I’m always here to help. Just give me a shout, and I’ll do my best to steer you in the right direction. Happy eating!
FAQs
Versatile menus with selections like Italian, American/New American, Brazilian steakhouses and Asian fusion tend to please diverse groups since there’s a dish for every preference. Buffet concepts also satisfy groups since guests can customize selections.
For feeding a large crowd on a budget, some affordable picks include Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet, Mission BBQ, Tark’s Grill or Coal Fire Pizza. Their menus provide quality and portions without breaking the bank.
Some restaurants like The Oregon Grille, Pairings Bistro and Fogo de Chão have private dining rooms that can be booked specifically for large group functions, allowing your party to dine in a separate, intimate setting.
Some may offer a slight discount for groups booking far in advance or groups spending over a certain dollar amount. Be sure to inquire with the restaurant on group rates when you call to make reservations for your party.
Yes, many restaurants in Owings Mills like Pairings Bistro, Manor Hill Tavern, Mimi’s Bistro and even Fogo de Chão offer custom group menus with family style courses so bigger parties can easily share a variety of dishes in a convivial, engaging setting.
For business meetings and corporate group functions, I’d likely suggest either The Oregon Grille for it’s upscale atmosphere and excellent private rooms or Pairings Bistro for affordability along with quality food and a charming French countryside vibe in it’s private space.
