Anniversary Party Question - Would You Think This is Cheap?

Me and my siblings are going to do a 40th anniversary surprise party for my parents at a restaurant. It would be for 30-35 people. The problem is we've reached our budget for just covering the per plate for the dinner. We're very worried about having to cover the tab for all these people when they'll be drinking for 4 hours, and the men can drink a lot of beer.

Do you think it would be cheap to have people pay for their own drinks? If it's between that and having to find a cheaper place or instead have it at a house with catering?

In my opinion... having a party at a house versus a place is so much better. You are not restricted to a 4-5 hour time limit. A good party will last longer. At a place, once the cake gets cut its time to go. HTH