When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen
Why Avalon Cafe and Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen, with notable locations including Weston, Missouri, and Ann Arbor, Michigan, is celebrated as a fantastic place to meet up with friends for meals that balance comfort and quality. The cafe’s vibrant atmosphere combines warm, inviting interiors with outdoor seating options that provide a relaxing backdrop for social gatherings. Known for hearty portions and a diverse menu, including standout items like breakfast quesadillas, shakshuka, avocado toast, and baked brie, Avalon offers something for a range of tastes and dietary preferences. The cafe prides itself on fresh ingredients and flavorful dishes, making it a go-to for casual brunches, lunches, or coffee dates. The Ann Arbor location is praised for its spaciousness and variety of seating arrangements, allowing guests to linger comfortably whether at tables, sofas, or counters. Additionally, their full coffee bar, including a variety of vegan coffee options, complements the food offerings well. Weekly specials such as Mimosa Mondays and university staff discounts also add to Avalon’s appeal as a community-friendly spot for relaxation and good food.
Here's what people think of Avalon Cafe and Kitchen
As of recent, Avalon Cafe and Kitchen holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1132 reviews.
Customer reviews across Avalon Cafe and Kitchen’s locations highlight a generally positive dining experience. Many patrons appreciate the cafe’s consistent food quality and menu variety, often mentioning favorites like the luncheons fillet, baked brie appetizer, and unique coffee drinks. Positive reviews frequently note the friendly and attentive service, spacious ambiance, and the charming character of the cafe's decor, including artistic touches and cozy seating options. Many visitors praise Avalon as a beloved local gem where the quality has remained steady even through challenging periods like the pandemic, showing resilience and dedication to customer satisfaction. However, some negative reviews point out occasional service inconsistencies, such as a particular instance of inattentive or unfriendly waitstaff. A few customers have noted disappointment with limited vegan food options, finding the menu somewhat constrained beyond popular items like avocado toast. There were reports that food quality was not as good on some visits compared to previous experiences, leading to mixed sentiments on return visits. Overall, Avalon Cafe and Kitchen maintains a strong reputation for good food and a welcoming atmosphere despite some variability in service and menu scope. The majority of reviewers recommend it as a comfortable spot for casual dining and socializing with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Grace Su Ming
Very yummy food. Vegan and vegetarian options. Brunch had a lot of good options. French onion soup is a must! French dip sandwhich delicious! The crispy potato tacos portion was a little small. Staff were kind and good service. Nice new renovation, kind of dark vibe wish there was more natural light but it was nice
Hunter Watson
We stopped by because this is one of the only Gluten Dude vetted restaurants in the area, which will cater to my celiac disease. Ordered the Elote Salad, and my husband the French toast. Alerted them to my allergies, and they were beyond diligent in catering to us. Which we really appreciate. Not to mention, this is easily the meal we've had in a long time. FANTASTIC!!!
Karen Farber
I’ve loved Avalon Cafe in A2 for several years but since they recently moved right next to Pretzel Bell, sharing a chef and kitchen, the standard of excellence that I was used to is no more. We ordered from the Avalon Brunch side of the menu. The French toast and eggs came to our table cold with no way to warm them up, according to the manager, since there is no microwave. The usually delicious avocado toast from the old restaurant (with an egg over easy ) was served to me with an overcooked egg on top. Both the manager and server were not helpful when we asked to warm up our food. The manager was quite rude. Overall, we were very disappointed and will not be returning .
Katie Turner
Delicious grain bowl with added tofu (generous portions) - in a cool, chilled out cafe.
Alan Leung
2025 Update: Their location moved and merged with Pretzel Bell and it honestly saved their restaurant in my opinion. The service got significantly better. I no longer had to wait basically an hour for brunch, We got seated right away - got our orders taken within a reasonable amount of time and got our food and checks all within 30-45 minutes. We weren't left with where did our waiter/waitress go for an hour as we waited for our checks. Significantly better since they got bought out or merged. The food was good, however the service was terrible. The waiter did not come back to refill our waters the entire hour visit. He didn’t really come back to check on us. When I got up to use the restroom I spotted him chatting with the bartender instead of grabbing our checks. I saw him continuing to chat while we waited for about 15 minutes for our checks to come in.
How to reach Avalon Cafe and Kitchen
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Why Avalon Cafe and Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Avalon Cafe and Kitchen with your friends?
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen in Ann Arbor is an ideal spot to gather with your friends because it strikes a perfect balance between a relaxed ambiance, delicious food, and a welcoming environment designed for socializing. With a solid rating of 4.3 from over 1,100 reviews, it clearly resonates with patrons who appreciate good company and even better meals. The location in downtown Ann Arbor adds an urban charm that makes meeting up feel vibrant yet comfortable. Whether you're catching up over coffee, enjoying a leisurely brunch, or indulging in a midday meal, Avalon offers a versatile experience that suits groups of all sizes. The combo of a full coffee bar, bakery selections, and New American dishes provides options to satisfy diverse palates, allowing everyone in your group to find something they enjoy. Their operating hours from 8 AM to 3 PM make it convenient for morning get-togethers or daytime dates, perfect for energizing brunch or a casual lunch. This combination of accessibility, atmosphere, and menu variety makes Avalon a smart choice to rally your friends and enjoy quality time together.
What activities can your group enjoy at Avalon Cafe and Kitchen?
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen offers more than just a meal; it sets the stage for enjoyable group activities that enhance your meetup experience. The centerpiece is its robust coffee bar, where friends can spend time savoring expertly made espresso drinks or refreshing specialty coffees while chatting in a lively yet cozy setting. Breakfast and brunch are standout times, featuring New American comfort foods as well as bakery treats that foster easy sharing and tasting among friends. The cafe encourages social interaction with its comfortable seating arrangements suitable for both small and larger groups. Additionally, there are regular weekday specials such as "Mimosa Monday" which offers $6 mimosas all day, perfect for a celebratory or casual brunch drink with friends. The cafe is also very student-friendly, offering discounts such as 23% off for University of Michigan students and staff on Mondays, inviting a young, energetic crowd eager to gather and converse. You and your friends can also take advantage of "Two Punch Tuesday" for double loyalty rewards, or "Wake Up Wednesday" with a 20% discount on online orders. These promotions encourage frequent meetups and add extra value to your visits. Whether it’s catching up over coffee, enjoying special brunch cocktails, or sharing bakery delights, Avalon fosters a community vibe perfect for groups.
Why is Avalon Cafe and Kitchen perfect for group meetups?
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen is perfectly designed to accommodate groups looking for a comfortable, stylish, and functional meetup location. The cafe’s layout includes ample seating with options ranging from cozy tables for small groups to larger communal areas, facilitating easy conversation and connection. The inviting atmosphere is enhanced by natural light and tasteful decor, creating an upbeat yet relaxed space where everyone feels welcome. Importantly, Avalon is fully wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive destination for groups with varied mobility needs. Its downtown Ann Arbor location puts it conveniently near other local attractions and public transit options, so meeting up here is simple regardless of how people are arriving. The menu’s flexibility — accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets — means no one has to compromise on their food preferences, ensuring a satisfying experience for all attendees. Table service allows your group to feel thoroughly taken care of, letting you focus more on the company than logistics. For families, Avalon provides high chairs and a child-friendly menu, making it easy to include kids in your gatherings. The combination of atmosphere, location, accessibility, and attentive service makes Avalon Cafe and Kitchen an exemplary venue for group meetups.
What makes Avalon’s food and drink offerings stand out for groups?
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen excels in offering a diverse menu that suits a variety of tastes and moods, making it highly suitable for groups with differing preferences. The cuisine leans toward New American breakfast and lunch dishes that combine familiar comfort with creative flourishes, ensuring that every plate feels special without being intimidating. The bakery counter introduces a delightful array of freshly made pastries and breads, ideal for sharing or for those who want lighter bites between sips. Meanwhile, the full coffee bar crafts everything from bold espresso shots to creamy lattes, providing beverage choices that complement the food beautifully and keep conversations flowing. Daily brunch cocktails, like the affordable mimosa option, add a festive touch for those wanting to celebrate or simply unwind with friends. Importantly, the menu includes vegetarian-friendly, vegan, and gluten-free options, thoughtfully accommodating dietary restrictions, so everyone in your group can enjoy a satisfying meal without worry. This culinary inclusivity alongside the quality and freshness of ingredients positions Avalon as a dining destination where groups can simultaneously satisfy diverse tastes and enjoy a communal dining experience.
How does the location and environment at Avalon enhance the meetup experience?
Situated right in downtown Ann Arbor, Avalon Cafe and Kitchen benefits from being in a lively, accessible, and picturesque urban neighborhood. This prime location means your meetup can be part of a broader day out, with easy access to nearby theaters, art centers, and shops that your group might want to explore before or after dining. The street-level cafe space offers an attractive setting with options for indoor and al fresco dining, allowing groups to enjoy pleasant weather and people-watch while sipping coffee or enjoying brunch. The environment at Avalon is a vibrant mix of modern cafe buzz and comforting familiarity, which naturally encourages relaxing conversations and friendly exchanges. Open daily from 8 AM to 3 PM, it caters well to daytime gatherings, whether it’s a lively weekend brunch or a casual weekday coffee rendezvous. Staff at Avalon are known for their attentive, friendly service, further enhancing the welcoming atmosphere, so your group always feels valued and cared for. This blend of central location, flexible seating, and a warm, convivial environment ensures that meetups at Avalon Cafe and Kitchen are memorable and refreshing.
What amenities and special features support a hassle-free group meetup at Avalon?
Avalon Cafe and Kitchen offers a range of amenities that streamline the planning and enjoyment of group meetups. The cafe provides takeout options, which can be useful for groups looking to mingle elsewhere or for guests who prefer quick service. Table service is attentive and accommodating, meaning your group can relax without worrying about logistics like ordering or bill splitting. The availability of high chairs allows families with young children to dine comfortably, making it inclusive for different age groups. Their promotion schedule—featuring deals like "Mimosa Monday," student discounts, and punch card rewards—adds value and encourages return visits, turning a casual meetup into a special event. The cafe’s commitment to accessibility, including wheelchair access, ensures no one is excluded from joining the celebration. Moreover, Avalon’s well-curated menu supports various dietary needs, ensuring all guests can find something to enjoy without hassle. All these thoughtful extras combine to make Avalon not only a great place to eat but also a stress-free venue where planning and hosting group meetups become easy and enjoyable.