Group dining in Southampton
Planning a group meal out? Whether you're celebrating a birthday, organising a work get-together, arranging a pre-theatre dinner, or looking for somewhere to host a large gathering of family and friends, Southampton has plenty of group-friendly restaurants and venues to choose from. With spacious seating, varied menus, and central locations across the city, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for your occasion, no matter the size of your party.
Restaurants for large groups
When you’re organising a meal for a large party, space and flexibility matter. Several restaurants in Southampton city centre and nearby areas are well-equipped to accommodate bigger groups, offering set menus, long tables, or semi-private areas that can be reserved in advance.
Papillon on Commercial Road is a firm favourite for group bookings, thanks to its spacious layout, housed in a stunning renovated church. From sirloin steaks and braised pork belly to juicy burgers and protein packed salads, there’s something to keep everyone happy. Over at Shanghai 1814, located on the High Street, you’ll find an elegant setting adorned with lanterns and cherry blossoms with booths and a karaoke function room ideal for groups, plus unique menus and cocktails to add a celebratory feel.
Private dining rooms and exclusive hire
If you're looking for a more exclusive experience, Southampton also has venues that offer private dining rooms or the option to hire a space just for your group. This is a great choice for milestone celebrations, business dinners, or any occasion where you’d like a bit more privacy or tailored service.
The Mayflower Village offers a function space with private bar, great for mid-sized groups, complete with bar game entertainment and extensive selection of food and drink. On Oxford Street, XOXO also provides a private room perfect for group gatherings, with an extensive cocktail menu.
These venues combine atmosphere with exclusivity, giving you space to celebrate with your group in comfort.
Budget-friendly group meals
Not every group meal needs to break the bank. Southampton has a strong range of affordable group dining options, where you can enjoy tasty food and great service at excellent value. These are ideal for student meetups, family meals, or casual celebrations on a budget.
Turtle Bay is a popular spot for groups thanks to its laid-back vibe, Caribbean menu and two-for-one cocktails. They offer group-friendly booths, and a party atmosphere most nights of the week. L'Osteria and Bella Italia are also great for affordable and familiar menus with fast service and plenty of seating.
Many local venues also offer special offers or seasonal discounts depending on the time of year so make sure you visit our special offers page for all the latest deals in Southampton.
Helpful tips for booking group dining in Southampton
Booking for a group doesn’t need to be complicated, but a bit of planning goes a long way. Most restaurants recommend calling or booking online in advance for groups of six or more. Some may require a deposit, especially during weekends or busy times of year like Christmas or graduation season. It's also common for group bookings to be asked to pre-order or choose from a set menu, especially in fine-dining settings.
If your group includes vegetarians or vegans, or diners with food allergies, be sure to check menus online in advance or speak to staff about available alternatives. Many venues are happy to tailor menus when given advance notice.
