When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Amaru
Why Amaru is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Amaru Surf & Wellbeing Resort stands out as a premier destination for friends seeking a memorable and rejuvenating experience. Nestled in a scenic location, the resort offers an exceptional blend of surf lessons, wellness activities, and delicious cuisine, making it an ideal spot to connect and unwind together. Guests can enjoy personalized surf lessons starting each day, allowing flexibility to extend sessions according to their energy and enthusiasm. The knowledgeable instructors provide expert guidance, from pool paddle training to ocean surf coaching, ensuring that both beginners and intermediate surfers enhance their skills safely and enjoyably. The resort also prides itself on its outstanding meals which are thoughtfully prepared to cater to various dietary needs, ensuring a flavorful and balanced dining experience. The ambiance is further enriched by the friendly and attentive staff who create a warm, family-like atmosphere. These elements combine to make Amaru not just a surf camp but a holistic retreat where friendships can flourish amid natural beauty and shared adventures.
Here's what people think of Amaru
As of recent, Amaru holds a 4.8-star rating based on 752 reviews.
Reviews from guests consistently highlight Amaru Surf & Wellbeing Resort as an exceptional place, with an outstanding overall rating of 4.8 from over 750 reviews. Positive feedback frequently emphasizes the professionalism and warmth of the staff, the superb quality of the surf instruction, and the delicious, health-conscious meals offered. Guests appreciate the flexibility in the surf lesson schedule, allowing them to tailor their experience, and the supportive environment that fosters progress and confidence in the water. The scenic setting and well-maintained accommodations also receive praise for contributing to a relaxing and inspiring getaway. On the negative side, few reviews mention minor logistical aspects such as last-minute bookings or certain expectations regarding lesson durations, but these are rare and often addressed promptly by the staff. Overall, the reviews portray Amaru as a trustworthy and enriching destination, welcoming visitors seeking both skill development and meaningful downtime in a friendly community setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Danielle Hueramo
Delicious food and great staff! Food: we tried the ceviche and coconut fried rice. They we both so great. Already know we will be returning to have another again. For mains we did the pollo and pulpo, each was packed with flavor and a beautiful presentation Drinks: we tried a mezcal cocktail and the Pina colada. The glassware was absolutely adorable and drinks were well crafted Staff: the staff was top tier! They were fast, attentive, friendly, and passionate about providing great service
t p
I went here to celebrate my cousins birthday. The food came out fast and hot we ordered Yuki fries, sweet plantain ,coconut rice, the chicken, crab cake, whole fish, and the lions main mushroom, and all the desserts available. Being the vegetarian in the group everything I ate was delicious the lions main mushroom was fantastic. The family said they enjoyed the chicken and the fish was crispy delicious. We enjoyed 1 out of the 3 desserts I didn't particularly enjoy the chocolate cake or the sponge cake I believe it was and neither did anyone else. But it didn't affect the fact that everything else was still amazingđ
Michael Kutyna
Amazing food and cocktails! Must try! Joe really made our experience very enjoyable. He is an extremely talented mixologist that paired our drinks perfectly with our food.
Stephan Hutecker
Great food! Restaurant week menu was a good value. Cocktails were pretty good, nothing special, but not bad. The food was very unique and delicious all around. The oxtail dish was one of the better dishes I've eaten in a while.
Eléonore Folliot
Had an exceptional dinner at Amaru, an unforgettable experience full of bold, refined flavors, impeccable service (special thanks to our wonderful waitress Paula!), and a warm & welcoming atmosphere. A true culinary gem đ«¶đŒ
How to reach Amaru
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Why Amaru may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Amaru with your friends? Amaru offers a unique blend of cultural vibrancy, warm hospitality, and exceptional culinary experiences that make it an ideal destination to connect and celebrate with your group. Whether youâre gathering to catch up, celebrate, or simply unwind, Amaruâs welcoming atmosphere fosters togetherness and memorable moments. The ambiance is enriched by its Pan-Latin roots, offering an epicurean journey through the flavors and stories of Latin America. Friends can indulge in beautifully crafted small to medium plates perfect for sharing, sparking conversation and delight with every bite. Its locationâwhether in an urban setting like Chicagoâs vibrant Wicker Park or nestled within the tranquility of nature in places like Peruâoffers the perfect backdrop for meaningful time together. The atmosphere blends vibrant energy with comfort, enhanced by thoughtful service and space designed to accommodate groups large and small. Rallying at Amaru is not just about dining or lodgingâitâs about immersing yourself in a culturally rich environment that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories through shared experiences.
What activities are available at Amaru and why is it perfect for a group meetup? Amaru provides a variety of activities tailored for groups seeking both adventure and relaxation. In locations where Amaru operates, such as surf and wellbeing resorts, guests can enjoy surf lessons tailored for all levels, with attentive, encouraging instructors helping every friend catch their first waves or improve their skills. These lessons can be flexible in timing, allowing your group to stay on the beach as long as you like. For groups more inclined toward relaxation and wellness, spa and healing treatments using natural and holistic methods offer serenity and restoration. Amaruâs culinary offerings are also a highlight activityâsharing multiple dishes allows groups to explore diverse Latin American flavors together, enhancing the communal dining experience. When located in natural settings, guided nature walks and excursions encourage groups to discover local flora and fauna together, enriching the connection to place and each other. The blend of physical activity, cultural immersion, relaxation, and exceptional dining creates a balanced itinerary for any group meetup.
How does Amaruâs food enhance the group experience? Food at Amaru is more than nourishment; itâs an immersive journey into the heart of Latin American culture. The restaurant concept focuses on Pan-Latin cuisine that celebrates multinational influencesâfrom Argentinian wines to Peruvian seafood, Brazilian Amazonian flavors to the zest of the Caribbean. This diversity in flavor profiles offers something for every palate, making it easy to please a group with different tastes. Sharing small to medium plates encourages a social and interactive dining experience, perfect for groups who enjoy trying a variety of dishes together and discussing each flavor. The thoughtfully prepared meals also accommodate dietary sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy without worry. Additionally, the vibrant presentation and balanced flavor combinations make every meal an event. The ambiance, combined with exceptional service, transforms dining into a highlight of any group gathering and enhances the overall experience of togetherness.
Is the location of Amaru convenient and appealing for group gatherings? Amaruâs locations are strategically chosen to combine accessibility with charm, making them ideal for groups. For example, in urban settings such as Wicker Park in Chicago, Amaru is nestled within a lively neighborhood filled with shops, cafes, and cultural hotspots that groups can explore before or after enjoying their meal together. This walkable, bustling environment invites spontaneity and group bonding beyond just the venue itself. Meanwhile, resorts and hotels operating under the Amaru name in places like Peru offer a peaceful and beautiful setting with lush gardens, walking paths, and spectacular nature viewsâperfect for groups seeking tranquility and scenic beauty. These locations often provide safety, a welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to local attractions or the town center, ensuring your group can enjoy both privacy and exploration. Amaruâs mix of urban vibrancy and natural serenity means your group can tailor the meetup according to your interests and energy levels.
What makes Amaruâs staff and service stand out for group meetups? The staff at Amaru consistently receive praise for their warmth, attentiveness, and personalized service, creating an environment where groups feel valued and cared for. From the moment you arrive, the teamâs friendliness helps your group relax and feel at home, whether youâre here for culinary experiences, surf lessons, or wellness retreats. Staff members are also knowledgeable about local culture, food, and activities, making them excellent guides to recommend experiences and help customize your groupâs itinerary. The attentive service ensures no detail is overlooked, whether itâs dietary accommodations, group reservations, or special requests. Many reviews highlight the family-like atmosphere created by the staff, which enhances the group dynamic and makes group members feel like part of a larger community during their stay. This personalized and genuine service enriches the meetup experience by fostering connection, comfort, and convenience for all attendees.
What group-friendly amenities and facilities does Amaru offer? Amaru is thoughtfully equipped with amenities and facilities that cater to groups, ensuring both comfort and fun during your meetup. Many properties feature inviting communal spaces such as garden courtyards and terraces where friends and family can gather, socialize, and enjoy tranquil moments together. For lodging options, clean and spacious accommodations provide the privacy needed after a day of group activities, while shared spaces promote interaction. On-site dining areas are designed for groups to share a variety of dishes comfortably, enhancing the social aspect of your meal. For those interested in wellness, specialized rooms for healing treatments, yoga, or meditation offer opportunities for group relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, properties like surf resorts include equipment rental, instructional spaces, and safe beach access to accommodate learning and fun for everyone regardless of skill level. These group-oriented facilities ensure that all members of your gathering can enjoy themselves while staying connected throughout the trip.
How can Amaruâs catering services enhance your special group events? For groups hosting special meetups such as birthdays, anniversaries, or celebrations, Amaru offers professional catering that brings its culinary artistry directly to your event. Their diverse and imaginative menu selections can be tailored to your group size and preferences, offering elegant and flavorful options that impress guests. This service takes the stress out of event planning by providing high-quality food and attentive service so your group can focus on enjoying each other's company. Whether your gathering is intimate or large, the catering team ensures that every detail â from presentation to dietary needs â is handled with creativity and care. Having such customizable and high-caliber catering elevates any group event, making it memorable and effortlessly enjoyable without compromising the authenticity and taste Amaru is known for.
Why is Amaru considered a safe and welcoming space for groups? Safety and comfort are paramount when choosing a location for a group meetup, and Amaru consistently earns high ratings for these qualities. Its properties in various locations provide secure environments with attentive staff who prioritize guest wellbeing. The atmosphere is inclusive and welcoming, promoting a positive experience for all group members regardless of background or interests. Reviews often mention the friendly and helpful nature of employees who go above and beyond to accommodate individual and group needs, creating a warm and trusting environment. This safety combined with genuine hospitality allows groups to relax fully and make the most of their time together, building connections in a worry-free setting. Amaruâs commitment to guest care and inclusivity contributes significantly to why itâs highly rated as an ideal place for groups to gather.
How does Amaru support both active and restful group experiences? One of Amaruâs standout qualities for groups is its ability to cater to diverse interests within the same gathering by balancing activity with relaxation. For adventurous groups, surfing lessons, guided nature excursions, and cultural tours provide fun and engaging ways to bond through new experiences. Meanwhile, for those wanting downtime, tranquil garden spaces, wellness treatments, and cozy indoor areas offer peaceful retreats to recharge individually or as a group. This flexibility encourages harmonious group dynamics where everyone feels their preferences are honored, making the meetup enjoyable for all. Additionally, group members can mix and match activities or downtime daily based on mood and energy, enhancing the overall experience without pressure or conflict. Amaruâs environment fosters a blend of excitement and calm that suits varied group preferences, which is a key reason it shines as a meetup destination.
What kind of groups benefit the most from a meetup at Amaru? Amaruâs inviting, flexible, and culturally rich setting particularly benefits groups who appreciate shared experiences over simple gatherings. Friends looking to deepen bonds through activities like communal dining, wellness retreats, or adventure sports will find abundant opportunities for connection. Families can enjoy safe and relaxed environments with amenities designed for comfort and togetherness. Similarly, groups celebrating milestones, such as birthdays or reunions, gain from Amaruâs catering and event support, making their special occasions smooth and memorable. Corporate or hobby-focused groups that thrive on shared learning, such as surf or cooking lessons, can also capitalize on Amaruâs expert instruction and collaborative atmosphere. Essentially, any group seeking a blend of culture, activity, comfort, and attentive service will benefit from gathering at Amaruâwhere both the place and the people enhance every aspect of the meetup.