Need Recommendations – Hosting a Cocktail Party – 40th Birthday

My husband is from Houston (I visit maybe once a year) from the east coast. We are visiting in town over Christmas, and I want to throw a mini pre-bday party.

Need suggestions for restaurants/locations/hotels that would fit this.

I understand most neighborhoods (most friends are near memorial drive over to Spring Valley neighborhood) – they don't seem driving to other areas such as Montrose or The Heights – if that helps.

Ideally Light Food/heavy Drinks, a little dressier (not a brewery), private area or room for 12-25 people, would be open to spending $100/person, but this isn't a hard stop.

Any insight would be appreciated!