Where to Throw a Party in L.A.

7605 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 (map)

This always bustling Italian restaurant debuted their semi-secret "Wine Room" in late 2009. It's a bit hard to find (in the back of the restaurant and not really open daily to the public), but that's what we love about it--it'll make you feel like an instant VIP with secret celeb-like access. Exposed brick and wine bottles line the walls and a dresser serves as a bar where holiday spirits are kept cool for revelers. Call for rates and availability. (Don't worry, you don't need a secret password.)

617 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90014 (map)

Downtown denizens have long been booking this staple for private parties, especially the mezzanine level. But if you really want to dazzle guests, Cicada also owns the stunning Oviatt Penthouse in the same building--think Art Deco style with a rooftop terrace and stunning views of downtown Los Angeles.

8764 Melrose Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

This London import hot with agents continues to sizzle this season even as the weather cools down. Their elegant chandelier-laden back room, dubbed the "butterfly room" (named after the Damien Hirst installation that lies within) holds up to 40 people and has already hosted a gaggle of celebs (everyone from Seth Rogen to Simon Cowell) since it emerged inside Cecconi's in early 2009.

246 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (map)

The private "wine cellar" room at Mastro's is an all-around classic for special occasions and is typically booked with holiday parties well in advance, but call for availability as this year may be a recession exception. Seats up to 50.

515 W Seventh St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Taxidermy is always a holiday winner, we say, and Seven Grand's stuffed deer mounted on the wall is primed as your office party conversation starter. The bar hosts private parties throughout the year in a side room, which comes cheaper than you'd think. Call for full details and availability.

453 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (map)

Always a fun time, Nic's is a perennial favorite for holiday gatherings thanks to their Vodbox where you can sip icy cold vodka in a freezer right outside the lounge area. Perfect for groups of 30, but the entire lounge area is available for rental and can hold up to 110.

4326 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (map)

This Silver Lake favorite is brimming with festive energy. Recently, the restaurant added a second floor space perfect for private parties with exposed brick walls and a large back room with a floor that just seems destined for dancing the night away with co-workers.

1221 N Valley Dr, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 (map)

Manhattan Beach's slick Shade Hotel has loads of party options, including the Skydeck on the top floor. For a more down-to-earth affair, book the Courtyard, which sits adjacent to the popular Zinc Lounge and can accommodate up to 300 people for cocktails and 160 for dinner.

826 N La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069 (map)

Office party planners love throwing shindigs at this La Cienega mainstay thanks to reasonable rates, multiple configurations and a simple layout. Your friends will love it because of the margaritas.

8401 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 (map)

Formerly known as the "Riot Hyatt," 8401 Sunset Blvd. has had some legendary bashes over the years (think rock stars like Keith Richards tossing TVs out the window or the end-of-tour party scene of "Spinal Tap," which was filmed here). These days, however, it's all about the rooftop sundeck which has unrivaled views of L.A. Of course, there's also the sleek mezzanine-level "Studio 4" for those on a tighter budget.