21St Birthday Restaurants Near Me (2024)

FAQs

How do I make a birthday request at a restaurant? ›

If you want a restaurant to recognize someone's birthday at your table, there is a proper way to ask. When you call to make a reservation, tell the receptionist that you're celebrating in advance, or if you book online, make a note on your reservation.

Call the restaurant a few days before. Tell them what the occasion is for and ask if they do anything special. I once went to lunch with some friends to a Mexican restaurant. They told them it was my birthday.

To make the birthday dinner extra special, coordinate with the restaurant to arrange for a birthday cake or a special dessert to be presented at the table. This moment becomes a memorable highlight, with the birthday person receiving a surprise treat everyone can enjoy.

Should I pay for the birthday dinner? According to The Daily Meal, the general and most ideal approach to handling the bill is for all guests — minus the guest of honor — to evenly split it. That way, it attaches similarly to people's orders and, in addition, separates out the birthday person's bill for taxes and tips.

Some restaurants let guests make special arrangement requests. Common requests include seeking window seats, separate booths, or a candle lit dinner. Of course, you can bring a smile to your date's face by having flowers or a bottle of wine or champagne delivered to the table.

Generally, the most agreeable, fairest way to handle the bill after a birthday dinner is for all guests, minus the guest of honor, to split it evenly. That way everyone is roughly paying for their own food and drink, plus a fraction of the birthday person's bill and an equal share of tax and tip.

Be kind. Be aware of the time you are calling the restaurant and avoid busy lunch or dinner times. Ask, “if it is possible” could they make a note that you would like a table by the window if possible. Thank the person again for their time and that you look to see them on the day.

Waiting to tell your server until they first approach the table can seem cloyingly desperate, so consider notifying the staff ahead of time — mention it when making the reservation over the phone, or indicate the birthday online if the restaurant or reservation site asks if you're celebrating anything.

Streamers, balloons, and even a birthday banner can be wonderful restaurant birthday decoration ideas. Flowers can be placed on the table, a balloon centerpiece may be added, or balloons tied to the chairs. Gifts can be presented or placed on one end of the table.

Turns out, people tend to expect between five and 10 people to celebrate their birthday, though numbers vary depending on age. For 20-somethings, somewhere between eight and 10 people is the norm, while those in the 30 and up category would celebrate with somewhere between five and seven friends.

Is it rude to show up to a birthday dinner without a gift? ›

It's kind to think of something to bring as a birthday present, even if your budget allows only a greeting card or a balloon from the grocery store. To bring nothing at all to a birthday party is a bit rude. And don't ask the host if you have to bring a present. That's even ruder.

The best way would be to turn down the invitation, and treat your friend to a dinner later at a place you can afford, or at your place. That way, everybody's happy. Just tell her, “I'd love to go, but I simply can't afford it.”

Waiting to tell your server until they first approach the table can seem cloyingly desperate, so consider notifying the staff ahead of time — mention it when making the reservation over the phone, or indicate the birthday online if the restaurant or reservation site asks if you're celebrating anything.

Making Requests: Instead of saying, “I want a table for two,” you can use “Could we have a table for two, please?” or “Can we get a menu, please?” When ordering, consider saying, “May I have the chicken salad, please?” or “Could I get a glass of water, please?”

If there is a birthday party, how do you convince your parents to let you go? By asking politely for permission, as a respectful and responsible young person. Show them the invitation, and have some ideas for handling possible issues.