Group Dining Guide
Everything you need to know for the perfect group dinner experience (4-8 people)
Gathering 4-8 friends for dinner? Carnys is designed for group dining experiences that go beyond typical restaurants. Share Mediterranean mezze, explore hookah flavors together, and enjoy live entertainment - all in a setting that encourages conversation and connection.
This guide covers everything from making reservations to ordering strategies, ensuring your group has an unforgettable evening without the usual group dining stress.
Why Groups Love Carnys
Sharing-Friendly Menu
Mezze platters, large kebab portions, and family-style sides are designed for sharing. Try multiple dishes without ordering huge individual meals.
Flexible Seating
Semi-private lounge areas for intimate groups, or main dining with live music energy. We accommodate groups of 4-8 comfortably.
Interactive Experience
Sharing hookah creates a social ritual. Exploring new flavors together becomes a conversation starter and bonding experience.
Diverse Drink Options
Craft cocktails, wine, beer, mocktails, and botanical drinks. Everyone in your group will find something they love.
Live Entertainment
Live music 5 nights per week adds atmosphere without overpowering conversation. Perfect background for group dinners.
Open Late
Open until 2am daily. No need to rush or relocate after dinner - continue your evening in one place.
Choose Your Seating Style
Semi-Private Lounge
Perfect for groups who want intimate conversation in a more secluded setting. Plush seating, dimmer lighting, and slightly separated from the main dining room energy.
Best For:
- Friend groups catching up after a long time
- Smaller, more intimate gatherings (4-6 people)
- Groups who prefer quieter conversation
Main Dining Room
Central seating with live music ambiance and full restaurant energy. Great for groups who enjoy a lively atmosphere while dining.
Best For:
- Groups who love live music
- Celebratory occasions (birthdays, promotions)
- Larger groups (6-8 people)
Pro Tip: Mention your seating preference when making your reservation. We'll do our best to accommodate, though availability depends on the night.
How to Order for Groups
Start with Mezze (3-5 dishes)
Order a variety of shareable appetizers for the table. This allows everyone to try multiple flavors and accommodates dietary restrictions.
Recommended for 4-6 people:
- • Hummus Trio (vegetarian, gluten-free)
- • Baba Ganoush (vegan, gluten-free)
- • Falafel Plate (vegetarian, can be vegan)
- • Cheese Borek (vegetarian)
For 6-8 people, add:
- • Lamb Kibbeh
- • Fattoush Salad
Mix Shared Platters & Individual Mains
Order 1-2 Mixed Grill Platters for sharing, plus individual kebabs for those with specific preferences. This balance gives variety without over-ordering.
Sample order for 6 people:
- • 2x Mixed Grill Platter (to share)
- • 2x Joojeh Kebab (individual)
- • 1x Lamb Chops (individual, for the adventurous eater)
- • 1x Vegetarian option (Ghormeh Sabzi or extra mezze)
Add Hookah (1-2 for the group)
For groups of 4-6, one hookah is sufficient. For 6-8, consider two different flavors so everyone can try their preference.
Pairing suggestions:
- • Fruity + Minty: Mango Tango + Mint
- • Classic + Exotic: Double Apple + Passion Fruit
- • Signature Blends: Mediterranean Breeze + Midnight Jazz
- • Herbal Option: Add 1 nicotine-free for non-smokers
Decide on Dessert & Drinks Strategy
Order 2-3 desserts to share (Baklava, Kunafa) rather than individual portions. For drinks, decide if you want a round of cocktails or individual orders throughout the meal.
Money-Saving Tip: Instead of everyone ordering individual cocktails, consider ordering a bottle of wine to share (more economical for groups of 4+).
Budget Planning for Groups
Per Person Estimates
Payment Options
1. Split Evenly
Simplest option. Let your server know at the start: "We'd like to split the bill evenly." Works best when everyone orders similarly.
2. Separate Checks
Inform your server at the beginning if you need separate checks. Note: shared dishes will need to be divided manually.
3. One Person Pays
One person covers the bill, others Venmo/Zelle them later. Fastest option for large groups.
Pro Tips for Group Dining Success
Call Ahead for 6+
Groups of 6 or more should call 24-48 hours in advance: (818) 489-2557. This ensures we can accommodate your party comfortably and prepare for dietary restrictions.
Best Times for Groups
Weeknights (Mon-Thu) 7-9pm: Quieter, easier for conversation. Weekends:More energy, live music. Arrive by 8pm for best seating.
Confirm Head Count
Get an accurate head count 24 hours before. If your group size changes significantly, call us to update the reservation so we can adjust seating.
Designate an Organizer
One person should coordinate with the server for ordering, payment method, and any special requests. This prevents confusion and speeds up service.
Ready to Plan Your Group Dinner?
Call us to reserve for your group, or explore our menu to start planning your order.
16101 Ventura Boulevard, Encino, CA • Open Daily 4pm-2am