Dallas' Best Bars and Restaurants for Hosting a Last-Minute Party

You may, genetic makeup depending, occasionally find yourself with the need to entertain large groups of friends, from the office or otherwise. You could invite everyone over to your place, but then someone might hang out longer than you want them to. You could drop in at any old bar, but then you run the risk of inadequate seating and waiting too long to get your next beer. Then there's the problem with minimum tabs, split checks and other mathematical headaches.

Lucky for you, there are a few bars and restaurants that thrive with large groups, and they're ready to help you party like you were born to. Here are six places that are ready and waiting. Pick your favorite and then draft that office memo.

Goodfriend (pictured above)
This may be the best spot in Dallas for a moderately sized group, and all you have to do is call ahead and they'll hold the whole lounge for you. Tired of finding nachos crumbs in your couch cushions after the big game? Tell your friends to leave them here while you order another cold local draft from the impressive beer menu.

Dish Preston Hollow
Nothing says party like a climate-controlled patio. Even better is a climate-controlled patio with a dedicated bar. The largest table here seats 18, which should be big enough to seat your whole department. Just note it's first come, first served. Weren't you looking for an excuse to sneak out of the office a little early?
Ten Bells Tavern
Just call ahead. That's all you need to do to make sure there's adequate space and the kitchen is ready to handle  your group. And you'll want them to be ready. In addition to having one of Dallas' most cozy covered patios, Ten Bells also has some of the city's best bar food.
Mr Max
The dining room at Mr Max was built with large parties in mind. The planks of wood that bridge the floor are removable so that tables can be pulled together on the fly. You'll definitely want to call ahead with a large party, but on the weekdays this Irving izakaya shouldn't have any problem handling your group. Their menu is perfect for large groups that like to share interesting plates, and there's plenty of sake and beer.
CBD Provisions
During the week, snagging the table for twelve in the bar room should be easy. There are even a few smaller tables you can pull up if your party is larger. Expect no minimums or hassles as long as you're not looking for a spot at 8:30 on Friday night, where minimum charges will rain on your party. As always call ahead, and don't even think of leaving this place without eating a goat pie.
Truck Yard
This East Dallas bar takes no reservations, but the reason it's still on this list is because it's huge. Just about any evening after work you'll be able to find tables for your whole office, and that holds true later in the night, too. The only caveat are those nicer days, where the sun is warm and the breeze is cool. If the weather's so nice you freak out when you step outside and it's a Saturday afternoon, stay far away from the Truck Yard. Not only will you not be able to find a table if you squeeze through the door, but the place will be a zoo.