Okay-here's a tough one. Need a spot for a Saturday night(12/30) dinner for 5 people. The place: must have booze; must allow 17 year olds(unlike Hopleaf, for eg.); must be in the city; must offer somethings that aren't too adventuresome(no Korean, Indian) but still interesting; must have a little "edginess" in some form. Last year's event took place at West Town Tavern-which fit the bill-the edginess came (almost) from the neighborhood.
The people aren't foodies, but enjoy good food as long as it's not too exotic, and appreciate some funkiness in atmosphere/surroundings.
I'm thinking Kuma's Corner if they allow minors. For some reason German places come to mind. Mirabell's for Old World funkiness-or even Brauhaus for a David Lynch-like experience. (That band thing) I'm not totally happy with these ideas.
I pretty much feel I know the city upside-down, but some place has got to be lurking outside my immediate radar. (the old Star Top Cafe used to be perfect for this type of thing.)
I love animals...they're delicious!