Introducing 8 1/2 at 9 West 57th
Holiday Party | 8 1/2 @ 9 W 57th | Senior Event Director Jodi Smith
Midtown’s Sophisticated New Venue for Modern Gatherings
Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan at 9 West 57th Street, 8 1/2 has officially opened its doors for catering and events, offering a stunning new setting for corporate celebrations, seasonal parties, and sophisticated social gatherings.
A contemporary reimagining of a classic New York space, 8 1/2 balances modern luxury with dramatic architectural elements. The venue’s sweeping circular staircase, polished finishes, and striking multi-level layout create a natural sense of arrival. Soft curves, warm textures, and soaring sightlines make it an unforgettable backdrop for events that call for something elevated yet inviting.
Whether hosting an intimate reception or a full-scale holiday celebration, guests are immediately immersed in an atmosphere that feels at once grand, modern, and unmistakably New York.
Event Gallery
A Holiday Celebration to Welcome the Space
To mark the opening of the venue, we recently hosted an internal holiday gathering—an evening designed to experience the space exactly as our guests would. With approximately 75 attendees utilizing half the venue, the event showcased how beautifully 8 1/2 accommodates open-flow reception formats, interactive stations, and dynamic guest movement across levels.
Seasonal décor accented the venue’s architecture—the curve of the staircase wrapped in greenery, warm red and green light washing the walls, and a glowing tree anchoring the lounge area. Elegant high tops, lounge seating, and clear modern chairs allowed the room’s design to shine while still offering comfort and flexibility.
Throughout the evening, guests explored curated food stations, enjoyed butlered hors d’oeuvres, sipped winter cocktails, and lingered in conversation across both levels of the venue. Even at half capacity, the space felt full of energy without ever feeling tight—an ideal balance for receptions, client events, and team celebrations.
The Menu: Seasonal, Abundant & Designed for Mingling
Our culinary team crafted a menu that celebrated winter flavors and the interactive nature of the space. Guests enjoyed a wide range of options—from passed bites to sushi to hot stations—allowing them to graze, taste, and connect throughout the evening.
Event Menu
Patatas Bravas with Garlic Aioli & Salsa Brava (Vegan, GF)
Crispy Arancini with Tomato Marinara (Vegetarian)
Truffled Mac & Cheese Bites (Vegetarian)
Coconut Shrimp with Apricot Mustard
Maryland Crab Cakes with Chesapeake Remoulade
House-Made Kosher Pigs in a Blanket with Deli Mustard
BBQ Short Rib on Stone-Ground Grits with Roasted Poblano (GF)
Chicken Satay with Lime, Cilantro & Fresh Chiles (GF)
Hot & Spicy Chicken Meatball with Thunder Pickle Remoulade
NY Carvery
Cedar-Planked Salmon with Honey & Charred Lemon (GF, DF)
Twice-Baked Mini Potatoes with Cheddar & Herbs (Vegetarian, GF)
Gruyère Creamed Spinach (Vegetarian, GF)
Classic Caesar Salad with Parmesan & Sourdough Croutons
Rustic Breads: Sourdough Boule, Ciabatta, Pugliese & Baguette
Chef Carving Station
Herb-Seared Strip Steak
Sauces: Chimichurri, Horseradish Cream & Mustard Sauce
Pasta Stations
Truffled Fall Orecchiette (Vegan)
Garganelli with Short Rib Bolognese
Sushi Station
Prepared onsite by sushi chefs
Rainbow Maki
Ichiban Roll
Crouching Tiger Roll
Salmon Avocado Maki
Spicy Tuna
California Roll
Avocado Cucumber
“You’re Just a Sweetie” Roll (vegetable & forbidden rice)
Soy Sauce, Pickled Ginger & Wasabi
Flourless Chocolate Cake Bites (GF)
Vanilla Cream Bombolini
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites (GF)
S’mores Squares
Spiced Pear Margarita
Tequila, pear purée, lime, cinnamon honey syrup, cinnamon stick garnish, cinnamon-sugar rim
Why 8 1/2 Is Perfect for Holiday Parties — December & January
With its central location, dramatic design, and flexible multi-level layout, 8 1/2 is an exceptional choice for:
- Corporate holiday parties
- Client receptions
- Team celebrations
- Milestone gatherings
- January holiday parties
The space shines during the holiday season, but its sculptural architecture and warm palette make it equally compelling year-round for events that deserve something truly memorable.
Plan Your Holiday Party or Seasonal Gathering
Whether you’re looking to host a last-minute holiday celebration this month or planning a January event to kick off the new year, our team is ready to help you create an unforgettable experience at 8 1/2 Events & Catering.
