When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Benchmark
Why Benchmark is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Benchmark is a multifaceted business known primarily for its strengths in office equipment sales and business solutions. The company fosters a motivating and enjoyable work environment with an intimate, family-like atmosphere despite operating on a large scale, making it a popular workplace among entry-level and sales professionals. One of its key highlights includes a motivated upper management team that enhances employee experience and growth opportunities. Benchmark also stands out for its high-quality office equipment offerings and its focus on delivering personalized customer solutions. The company experiences dynamic sales activities, primarily driven by direct prospecting and customer calls. Beyond that, Benchmark is recognized for its responsive business consulting and strategy development services which include detailed project planning and innovative, tailored solutions. These attributes make it a potentially advantageous place for professional meetups and collaborative engagements, especially for clients and partners seeking business growth and equipment solutions.
Here's what people think of Benchmark
As of recent, Benchmark holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1348 reviews.
User reviews about Benchmark paint a generally positive picture with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on over 1,300 reviews. Many reviewers praise the company for creating a supportive and inclusive work environment with strong leadership and a friendly atmosphere. Positive feedback highlights the company’s high-quality products, particularly in office equipment, and the effective communication and strategic consulting provided by its business group division. Reviewers appreciate the motivation and camaraderie among employees, alongside efficient project delivery and tailored business solutions. However, some negative reviews point out issues such as inadequate compensation in competitive markets and challenges with lead generation, which can impact sales roles negatively. There are also mentions of less favorable experiences relating to organizational changes after acquisitions, leading to some confusion about company direction. Despite these downsides, the majority sentiment remains favorable, endorsing Benchmark as a reputable and productive business with potential for growth and customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Karina C
WHAT WE ORDERED ✨ Drinks 🍸 - Lychee for Me-chee! - Lemon drop martini Apps 🍴 - Tokyo Fries - Duck empanadas *Not pictured* 😭 - The comeback burger - Skillet cookie 🍪✨ My favorite?? The lychee martini and the fries!!!!! You have to get them!!! We walked in on a Sunday evening no reservations needed as it wasn’t packed😊
Sabrina Crawford
As the North Wells Street/Old Town area of Chicago is reestablishing itself on the food scene, benchmark has stepped out to the front. With a redesigned space and new menus, they’re definitely a place to check out for happy hour, dinner or when you can grab their lunch. Also to be noted-they have space for private parties AND have some pretty fun events for the holiday season. I’m all about space and comfort and there is lots of room here and it’s decorated so cute ☺️ The upstairs area looking down over the entire space is pretty cool and there’s a bar up there! 🙌🏽 I have to give honorable mention to the Thai Chicken Wings - those flavors were hitting and my guest loved The Benchmark Burger; it has a house ground brisket, short rib and chuck patty blend and my girl loved it! Other new menu items include their Boom Pow 💥 Shrimp , Greek Salad, Hummus and more! It is definitely a cool spot to grab lunch, have happy hour after a loooonnnggggg day at work or to catch dinner and a game with friends. Check them out and tell em that Bri from Planes and Plates sent you! Enjoy!
SERGELATO
I went here with my friend Connor a couple months ago and we tried the duck empanadas, I really liked them so I ordered them again. It’s a slow roasted Duck leg with sea salt, its more gamey, and I prefer it over Chicken. But, I do love chicken wings, so we also got the Thai Chili wings with pickled chili, peanut sauce, mint, basil and lime. We also tried the grilled halloumi salad, the Mediterranean flavors really blended well together and was a great healthy option. For the main we had the chicken shawarma which was very reminiscent to the grilled halloumi salad, but definitely had more protein. I am a huge fan of lobster rolls, and shout out to the chef for not making this mayo based because I think lobster rolls should be mainly butter and lobster. Extra points on the perfectly toasted and fluffy new England roll, and for the side you should try the sweet potato fries with caramelized onion dip.
Zong Hu
What a fun and great place, favored by the younger, local crowd. The open air feeling and interior is really well designed, reminds me of someplace warm like Los Angeles with the chic touch of Miami. The quality of the food was amazing and if I could, I'd recommend Michelin to drop by and rate it. I had the lettuce shrimp wrap and it is worthy of being served in Manhattan for double the price. BTW, happy hour has half price appetizers, which makes this spot a must go. Affordable fine dining? Yes.
Eva Ranquist
Amazing food and drinks! We loved the burrata press and dirty martini with grey goose! The service was amazing, so fast and rooftop was gorgeous!
How to reach Benchmark
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Website: None
Why Benchmark may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Benchmark with your friends? Whether you’re looking for a vibrant spot to unwind after a busy week or a dynamic place to celebrate a special occasion, Benchmark offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for group gatherings. With a solid 4.4 rating from over 1,300 reviews, it has clearly earned the respect and fondness of many who have experienced its unique blend of urban vibe and warm hospitality. Located in a prime area with an open-concept design, Benchmark provides the kind of comfortable and lively environment that encourages conversation, laughter, and shared enjoyment among friends and family. The combination of flavorful food, well-crafted drinks, and an ambiance that balances casual with chic makes it easy for groups to relax or energize their get-together. Whether you’re planning to catch up over appetizers or cheer on your favorite sports team with great drinks in hand, Benchmark’s friendly vibe and attentive service turn any meetup into a memorable occasion.
What activities and experiences make Benchmark ideal for a group meetup? Benchmark offers a variety of options that cater especially to groups seeking both entertainment and a chance to connect. First, the food menu includes crowd-pleasers like sliders, quesadillas, and pretzel bites with rich cheese sauce – perfect for sharing and snacking with friends. The quality and taste of these dishes are often highlighted by patrons who appreciate affordable prices paired with delicious flavors. Beyond the food, the bar stands out as a social hub where expertly mixed cocktails and a diverse drink selection encourage relaxed mingling. The atmosphere is enhanced by an open layout that accommodates both intimate corners and larger group seating areas, making it flexible for different party sizes. Additionally, the venue features multiple TVs strategically placed to offer optimal viewing for sports fans, turning game nights into group celebrations filled with cheers and camaraderie. This blend of casual dining, great drinks, and entertainment options makes Benchmark a versatile choice for any social gathering.
Why is the atmosphere at Benchmark especially inviting for groups? One of the many reasons Benchmark is regarded as a top choice for meetups is its thoughtfully designed ambiance. With an urban, open-concept layout, the space feels modern yet cozy, encouraging open conversation without feeling overwhelming. The bar area serves as a key focal point where groups naturally gravitate for drinks and banter, while upstairs seating provides a bit more privacy yet keeps everyone connected. Lighting and décor balance sophistication with warmth, ensuring that groups feel welcomed whether they’re there for a lively night out or a relaxed catch-up. The overall vibe is boosted by the staff's friendliness and attentiveness, who help ensure that groups are well taken care of without interrupting the natural flow of the gathering. For those seeking a spot that combines a trendy city feel with comfort and community, Benchmark consistently delivers.
How does Benchmark accommodate different group sizes and needs? Benchmark’s layout and service model are designed to be versatile, which is crucial when hosting diverse groups of friends or family. From smaller groups looking for cozy conversations to larger parties wanting space to move and mingle, the venue offers seating configurations to match. The mix of bar seating, booths, and tables upstairs means that groups can find the right balance between privacy and social energy. The kitchen's quick turnaround on appetizers and the bar’s efficient drink service help avoid long waits, which can be a major plus for groups eager to keep their momentum going. Furthermore, for sports fans organizing game-day gatherings, the venue’s multiple large TVs ensure no one misses a play, creating a shared experience that bonds the group. Whether celebrating a birthday, planning a casual weekend hangout, or meeting up for a work celebration, Benchmark’s accommodating setup makes planning and enjoying the event straightforward and enjoyable.
What makes the food and drink selection at Benchmark suited for social occasions? Food and drink are at the heart of any successful group meetup, and Benchmark excels in both. The menu features a range of shareable appetizers designed to please various tastes without overwhelming your dining choices. Items such as sliders, quesadillas, and pretzel bites are not only crowd favorites but also easy to eat while socializing, which enhances the flow of conversation. The pricing is reasonable, making it ideal for larger groups who want to indulge without worry. On the beverage side, Benchmark’s bar crafts cocktails with care, offering classics and contemporary mixes to suit everyone’s preferences. Beer and wine selections complement the casual but quality-focused dining experience, giving groups plenty of options to toast their time together. The combination of tasty food and well-made drinks supports a relaxed, festive atmosphere that encourages guests to stay, share, and enjoy long conversations.
How does Benchmark’s location contribute to its appeal for group gatherings? Situated in the vibrant Old Town area, Benchmark benefits from an excellent location that adds to its attractiveness as a meetup spot. This urban neighborhood is known for its lively streets, accessibility, and abundance of amenities, making it easy for friends and family to find and converge at Benchmark. After arriving, guests can enjoy the convenience of nearby transit or parking options, simplifying logistics for group arrivals and departures. The location itself imbues Benchmark with a trendy yet comfortable city energy that complements its interior ambiance. Being in a desirable part of town also allows visitors to plan extended nights out, combining a meal and drinks at Benchmark with walks, additional nearby venues, or simply soaking in the neighborhood’s charm. This location advantage means Benchmark is not just a great place to meet but also part of a full, enjoyable outing experience for groups.
What do reviewers say about their experiences at Benchmark? Feedback from guests highlights the consistent quality and enjoyable atmosphere that make Benchmark stand out. Many reviews praise the balanced combination of great service, tasty food, and a welcoming vibe that feels just right for groups. Patrons often speak about the bar area as a favorite feature, noting the inviting ambiance and the opportunity for social interaction it provides. Appetizers receive frequent compliments for their flavor and portion sizes, making sharing easy and satisfying. Visitors also appreciate the multiple TVs that allow them to catch sports together, an important perk for communal celebrations during games. While some reviews note that the place may be busy at peak times – a testament to its popularity – the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive and positions Benchmark as an easy recommendation for any group meetup aiming to blend fun, comfort, and quality.
Why is Benchmark considered a balanced option for social and casual gatherings? Benchmark does an excellent job bridging the gap between casual neighborhood hangout and a sophisticated urban spot, which explains its strong appeal. The setting is laid-back enough to feel approachable for everyday meetups, yet stylish enough to impress when hosting guests or commemorating special moments. The affordability and quality of both food and drink make it accessible without sacrificing taste or experience. Importantly, the staff approach ensures groups feel cared for but not hovered over, which can be a hidden but critical factor in a successful group event. This balance fosters an environment where people can focus on each other and the fun rather than logistics or discomfort, making Benchmark a repeat destination for those seeking reliable yet exciting social occasions.
How does Benchmark support an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all types of groups? Whether your gathering includes longtime friends catching up or a family reunion with varying ages, Benchmark’s environment and offerings cater to diverse needs. The food menu’s flexibility, featuring items that appeal across generations and tastes, supports a broad spectrum of preferences. The welcoming staff create a considerate atmosphere where questions or special requests are handled smoothly, helping groups feel at ease. The spatial design lets groups carve out their own little social nooks or expand into more open areas without feeling cramped. Accessibility considerations and the lively but not overwhelming sound level further enhance comfort. By blending thoughtful service, flexible space, and appealing menu choices in a prime urban setting, Benchmark encourages enjoyable gatherings that everyone in your group can appreciate.