COOLinary is one of our favorite New Orleans culinary events. Held during the entire month of August, over 100 New Orleans area restaurants participate, giving you your choice of cuisine to indulge in. And with special, multicourse pre-fixe menus priced at $28 or less for lunch and $58 or less for dinner or brunch, you can plan the perfect culinary roadmap without breaking the bank.

We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite splurge-worthy picks and iconic restaurants, but special dining opportunities should feel, well, special. And what better way to add some pomp and circumstance to the week than by sharing a meal with friends?

Mister Mao’s COOLinary special features a take on their dim sum-style brunch menu. Families can share sweet and savory breakfast-y items from dumplings to fairy bread.  

Osteria Lupo and Costera, both co-founded by Reno de Renieri and chef Brian Burns, feature family-style tasting menus on the regular—and COOLinary is no different. Pick either spot for a delicious three-course spread of refreshing European dishes featuring local produce and Gulf seafood. 

Pretty much any restaurant in New Orleans can accommodate large parties. However, those planning to dine with 9 or more people should keep an eye out for restaurants with expansive dining rooms. Check out the COOLinary menus at Bourbon House and Rib Room. Both restaurants have plenty of space and mouthwatering eats for the whole group. 

There’s no shortage of restaurants that are perfect for lively meals spent catching up with friends. See below for some of our favorite COOLinary restaurants to dine with a group, or click here to explore all participating COOLinary restaurants.