"Having a birthday meal in a storage room surrounded by pasta machines might sound strange, but at Osteria La Buca, it’s the seasoned move. The second-floor private dining space has a bird’s-eye view of the lower level, an aux cable for music, and a BYO wine policy, all of which make the experience feel like a fun loft dinner. For food, you get to build a custom, family-style meal from La Buca’s menu beforehand (stick to classics like roasted brussel sprouts, pork meatballs, and bucatini), which means fewer decisions to make once your party arrives. " - brant cox