Birthday Suggestions?

Last year my birthday party coincided with the vice-presidential debate and my fete was subordinated to boozy goggle-eyed Sarah Palin bingo. Please help me bury those memories! My birthday snuck up on me a few days ago and I am belatedly looking for a place to celebrate with friends. I'm thinking: about 15 people, mostly in their 20s, relaxed environment, affordable beers, preferably Park Slope or Prospect Heights. (Otherwise: somewhere that my scaredy-cat Manhattan friends can easily access.) The thing is, it'll likely happen on Friday night, and even chill places can get stupid crazy on the weekend. I know Floyd has been recommended here in the past; I went there last year and liked the place, but I'd prefer something a little closer. I know you have suggestions -- where should I go?

Buttermilk.

First, you can celebrate your birthday with the fact that Sarah Palin lost, and that she lost because she is Sarah Palin. Consider the alternative.

Good places include Dram Shop, Union Hall or if the weather is good for outdoors The Gate and Commonwealth. Union is big and has lots of room, but is only near the R, M train at the Union Street stop. The others are between the F on 7th ave or the F, R and M on 4th ave., which is good for those confused Manhattanites visiting the better borough.

And Don't worry about the crowds. With 15 people you will be the crowd that others need to worry about.

Thanks for the suggestions so far. Has anyone been to Pacific Standard? It's maybe a bit far west, but highly accessible. I hear they have good beers and, apparently, beef jerky.