When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Joe's
Why Big Joe's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Joe's Roofing is a premier family-owned and operated roofing company based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Known for its commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, Big Joe's specializes in both residential and commercial roofing services, including shingle roofs, flat roofs, and roof reconditioning. Their dedication to excellence is reflected in their A+ accreditation with the Better Business Bureau and a remarkable collection of over 400 five-star reviews across Google, Facebook, and Yelp. Big Joe's Roofing prides itself on offering some of the best warranties in the roofing industry, ensuring clients receive long-lasting, reliable roofing solutions. With decades of experience led by owner Joe Gagne, a GAF Certified contractor, the company has built a reputation for trusted, high-quality roofing services tailored to meet each customer's unique needs. This makes Big Joe's Roofing a great place to meet with clients or friends interested in expert advice on roofing solutions or to discuss home improvement projects in a relaxed and professional setting.
Here's what people think of Big Joe's
As of recent, Big Joe's holds a 4.5-star rating based on 215 reviews.
Reviews of Big Joe's Roofing are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting their professionalism, high-quality workmanship, and customer-centric approach. Many reviewers praise the company for timely project completion and excellent communication throughout the roofing process, noting the responsive and knowledgeable staff who go above and beyond to ensure satisfaction. Positive reviews often mention the durable materials used and the professionalism of the installation teams, which reinforces their reputation for quality and reliability. Negative feedback, while rare, generally revolves around scheduling delays or occasional miscommunication, which the company has actively addressed to improve client experience. Overall, the consensus among customers is that Big Joe's Roofing delivers exceptional service with trustworthy personnel, making them a top choice for roofing needs in the Philadelphia area. Their continuous commitment to quality and customer happiness solidifies their standing as a highly regarded roofing contractor.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Leah Day
This was honestly the highlight of our trip to Chicago. We came all the way from Florida and knew we had to come here when we heard about it. We ubered from downtown which was easy enough. We arrived pretty early--around 7:30 or so which was honestly a fantastic idea. We staked out a couple seats at the bar which was really nice once the place got packed. We were able to chat with Bob and Tracy and had so much fun. We ordered plenty of drinks to acquire tickets for the turtle race 🐢 and then my friend won a chance to race. Her turtle came in second but it was a blast. We stayed till about 11 and saw three turtle races. Highly recommend this Friday night activity to everyone!! Also, make sure you bring tons of cash--cash only!
Andrea Christine Sipos
[BAR IS CASH ONLY] We came by for a bachelorette party’s main event at the request of the bride. She’d been to Big Joe’s for turtle racing nearly 7 years ago and was desperate to bring us all. It was a wacky and hilarious night out that we’ll all cherish. Great clientele, great service, great MC for the races. Cheap beer and many laughs. The loser of each race gets a free drink!
Andrew Smith
Wonderful, quirky, local bar. I happened in for happy hour, since I was in the area. Watched some TV with the regulars and traded stories with the bartender. My kind of afternoon! Bring cash. They don't take cards, and maybe stop by for Friday night turtle races!
I D
Neighborhood bar with big Friday fun - turtle racing. It is great fun plus an opportunity to drink...the more you drink the more tickets you get to have a chance to participate in the race. Prices are totally reasonable, the crowd is friendly and the music between races is whatever you pick on the juckbox.
Par Taank
Had an amazing time being a first time Turtle Jockey. This turtle racing bar brings all the hype. The host brought all the energy to get the bar ready for each of the 5 races during the night. Each drink gets you tickets which get put in a draw to be a turtle jockey for a race where you can win a prize or a free drink. It's way more fun than it sounds. Note that this place is cash only.
How to reach Big Joe's
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Website: None
Why Big Joe's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Joe's with your friends? Because this spot embodies the perfect blend of nostalgic charm, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes any gathering memorable. Big Joe's, widely loved and rated highly with a 4.5-star average from over 200 reviews, offers an inviting ambiance reminiscent of classic 1950’s diners, transporting you and your group to a simpler, more relaxed era. It’s more than just a place to eat – it’s a communal space where friends can reconnect over exceptional meals, friendly service, and a vibe that encourages lingering and good conversation. Whether catching up over breakfast, sharing laughs at lunch, or reminiscing about old times late into the evening, Big Joe’s atmosphere naturally lends itself to fun, relaxed group interactions. It’s the kind of place where portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and every meal feels like a celebration of togetherness. This makes Big Joe's a natural magnet for groups looking to rally for a high-quality, casual dining experience where everyone leaves satisfied and smiling.
What activities and features make Big Joe's perfect for a group meetup? First, the menu at Big Joe's specializes in classic American comfort food with a focus on breakfast and lunch favorites. Legendary omelettes, such as the California Chicken Avocado, standout with fresh, flavorful ingredients that satisfy every palate. The portions are notably large, welcoming those with big appetites and encouraging shared plates among friends. If your group enjoys burgers, Big Joe’s offers satisfying, no-nonsense options that appeal to varied tastes, although some have noted seasoning variations. Beyond the food, the environment mirrors a retro diner that feels casual yet clean and warm, perfectly suited for extended visits where groups chat comfortably over multiple courses or coffee refills. The staff is consistently praised for being friendly and attentive, ensuring your group’s needs are met efficiently so no one feels rushed or overlooked. This combination of culinary appeal, nostalgic ambiance, and excellent service makes Big Joe's an ideal location to host gatherings without the formality of typical restaurants or the chaos of larger chains.
What kind of group experience can Big Joe's provide? The diner’s setting, evocative of old-school American diners, caters well to groups ranging from intimate circles of friends to larger family reunions. Its spatial arrangement supports easy socializing, allowing you to pull together multiple tables while maintaining a sense of closeness and privacy. Because the menu features hearty, share-friendly dishes, group members can enjoy sampling different meals and passing plates around, enhancing the communal dining experience. The casual nature of Big Joe’s invites relaxed dress codes and friendly banter, which sets a tone welcoming for groups who want to focus on connection without distractions. Additionally, breakfast at Big Joe’s is celebrated as an experience not to miss — the kind of meal that starts a day of group activities off right or provides a delicious wind-down after a busy morning. This flexibility means Big Joe’s is highly adaptable to various meetup objectives, whether it’s an early catch-up, a midday break, or a weekend family brunch.
How does Big Joe's compare to other dining options for group meetups nearby? Unlike national chain restaurants, Big Joe’s offers a more personalized, community-focused dining experience with consistently positive feedback about its food and staff. Many reviewers highlight it as the premier breakfast haven in its area, often choosing it over larger corporate diners like IHOP. The price point is described as fair, especially given the generous portion sizes and quality of food. The atmosphere’s nostalgic vibe is distinct from the typically modern or generic interiors found in other restaurants, providing a memorable setting that appeals to all ages. Although a few reviews mention minor inconsistencies, these are balanced by widespread acclaim for the diner’s charm and reliability. For groups seeking a place that feels both familiar and special, Big Joe’s strikes a sweet spot between quality, affordability, and character that few competing establishments match.
What makes the service at Big Joe's stand out in a group setting? Groups can often feel rushed or underserved in busy restaurants, but Big Joe’s is noted for its consistently excellent customer service. Friendly and attentive waitstaff help create a welcoming ambiance where everyone in your group feels cared for. From accommodating special requests to managing large table orders efficiently, the staff’s professionalism shines through. Positive reviews commonly mention the absence of service issues, which is a critical factor when planning a meetup with multiple people who expect smooth coordination. This level of attentiveness ensures that meals arrive promptly and that drinks and refills are timely, preventing long waits that can dampen group spirits. For anyone organizing a meetup, such reliable service translates into an effortless and enjoyable experience, letting the focus stay on the people you came to see rather than restaurant logistics or frustrations.
How suitable is Big Joe's for various group demographics? Families, friend circles, couples, and even business casual groups will find Big Joe’s perfectly fitting. The menu’s wide appeal covers classic American breakfast staples, comforting lunch dishes, and hearty portions that satisfy both kids and adults alike. The nostalgic diner decor has a universal charm that resonates across generations, making it welcoming for older guests who appreciate the retro feel as well as younger customers experiencing a slice of Americana. The setting is casual and informal, removing any pressure to dress up or adhere to strict dining etiquette, which often helps groups relax and enjoy their time together more fully. Additionally, the location’s reputation as a reliable, friendly, and tasty dining option makes it easy to recommend and plan visits around, regardless of the group’s composition or meeting purpose.
Why should groups consider Big Joe's as their go-to spot for meetups moving forward? Big Joe's reputation for outstanding breakfast, generous portions, excellent service, and a nostalgic atmosphere built on decades-old diner tradition makes it an unbeatable choice for group gatherings. Its proven track record, reflected in a robust average rating of 4.5 stars from over 215 reviews, speaks volumes about the consistency and quality that guests rely on. The comfortable, casual ambiance fosters easy conversation and connection, key to the success of any social meetup. Combined with attentive staff and a menu that pleases almost everyone, Big Joe’s offers a full package that turns ordinary meals into memories. For friends and families looking for a dependable, enjoyable place to rally any time of day, Big Joe's stands out as a top contender worthy of repeated visits and enthusiastic recommendations.