So I'm turning 21, and unfortunately, as literally ALL of my friends are involved in a show right now, I seem to be planning my own party. Here's where you Serious Eater's come in. I need some NYC suggestions! I don't know what I'm doing for sure, but I need suggestions in these realms:

1. A fun place to spend a 21st evening. Not super expensive (we are college students), but not a total dive. Somewhere people can drop in and drop out as they please without disrupting the party. A place where I may have to have a drink on my own and that would be okay.

2. Ideas for a nice birthday dinner for myself, a pescetarian student foodie. Somwhere I could potetially eat alone... like maybe a place with a great (yet affordable) tasting menu?

3. Any other suggestions! I'm also thinking of maybe forcing all my friends to eat my favorite food with me (lobster-- like a true New Englander) and making them bring the booze. Basically I'm just looking for ways to make my birthday not stressful for any of us busy people, but insanely fun.

Suggest away! Thanks so much.