Most of the time I am meeting friends to hang-out and we will spontaneously find somewhere to eat. I really enjoy that.

Occasionally I am hanging out with friends from out-of-town, or friends with kids who don't get out as often. Then it's convenient to have somewhere booked so we don't end up having to eat at a not-so-great place and 'spoil' their visit, or their one evening seeing friends that month.

Sometimes I want to hang out with a big group. Try finding a place which can spontaneously accommodate twelve people.