Become a BEST partner Swap to AU

5 Private Dining Rooms Perfect for Team Celebrations

Published 11 June 2025

There’s no better way to get team spirits soaring than through the belly. Whether you’re commemorating a new workplace milestone or just want to have a chat outside the office, some good kai never hurt anyone. If you’ve been given the task of choosing a venue for your next work function, fear not. This is the prime guide for the LinkedIn warriors looking to host a tasty event more substantial than a coffee chat.   

We believe there are three big components behind a great gathering. Good food is a must, alongside great seating options, and a warm vibe. Whether you’re planning for your own team celebration, or have the responsibility to impress the boss, here are some recommendations for some great restaurants with private dining rooms and group friendly offerings. 

  • Carmen Jones

    382 Karangahape Road, Auckland Central, Auckland CBD
    It's perfect for mezze, music and wine with a bohemian buzz.
    You need to try the lamb kofta or harissa-spiced cauliflower.
    Look out for velvet seats, candlelight and a global playlist that brings it all together.

    Carmen Jones is a contemporary Mediterranean spot, serving a range of tapas dishes spanning across regions like Turkey and Spain. This spot is the perfect venue for casual and formal occasions alike. Planning a team dinner? They’re well set up for large seated groups. Want to keep it casual with drinks and bites? Book the Havana Room — a semi-private lounge that lets your team mix, mingle, and roam with canapés in hand. 

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Carmen Jones Buy
  • Margo's Queenstown

    26 Ballarat Street, The Mall, Queenstown
    It's perfect for bold Mexican flavours with a cheeky alpine twist.
    You need to try the tuna tostadas or birria tacos.
    Look out for colourful murals, flaming cocktails and a party-ready playlist.

    Mexican food is a go-to favourite for group events for good reason. Margo’s in Queenstown is a fun and flavourful option to bet on if you’re in Queenstown. They offer three versatile spaces to suit your group size, and a flexible menu that caters to all tastes and appetites. From shared tacos to seated dinners, Margo’s has just the right amount of flavour and fun. 

    Read more
    Buy a gift card for Margo's Queenstown Buy
  • Azabu Mission Bay

    44 Tamaki Drive, Auckland CBD

    Azabu in Mission Bay is yet another Auckland favourite. Dishing up Japanese-Peruvian inspired creations for almost a decade, the Mission Bay location is a prime venue for those with finer palates. With a sprawling patio, their outdoor area is the perfect setup for a night of mingling, and their indoor area has some comfy booths for good conversations. Depending on the capacity, group bookings can occupy either space.

    Read more
  • Smoke n Barrel

    616 Ferry Road, Woolston, Christchurch

    Smoke n Barrel is a restaurant and catering company accustomed to serving an assorted number of people. With a friendly interior and rearrangeable floor, this place has some valuable assets for small and medium groups looking to dine in. For large-scale work functions, their catering and delivery is highly praised in Christchurch– after all, nothing brings people closer together than good kai!

    Read more

Featured locations

You may also like