When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Why Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is an engaging American seafood restaurant chain inspired by the 1994 film Forrest Gump. Established in 1996 in Monterey, California, the chain has grown into a beloved venue for friends and family to enjoy casual dining with a dose of nostalgia. Its unique theme, heavily influenced by the movie, creates a vibrant and playful atmosphere filled with memorabilia and interactive elements such as trivia and themed table signs that enhance the dining experience. The menu is specialized in shrimp dishes, mentioning shrimp 41 times, and features creative options like Forrest's Seafood Feast and the Run Across America sampler, offering something for all seafood lovers. With 33 locations worldwide including the U.S., Mexico, Japan, and more, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. combines quality seafood with a welcoming, fun ambiance —perfect for catching up with friends or celebrating special moments. The family-friendly setting along with attentive service makes it a memorable place for social gatherings and creates an inviting environment where everyone can savor the flavors and the story behind the brand.
Here's what people think of Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
As of recent, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. holds a 3.8-star rating based on 2526 reviews.
Customer reviews paint a picture of Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. as a popular dining destination with a solid overall rating around 3.8 to 4.3 across different locations. Positive feedback highlights the delicious and flavorful seafood options, generous portions, and a lively atmosphere inspired by the Forrest Gump film that many find entertaining and nostalgic. Attentive and welcoming service is frequently praised, with staff often going above and beyond for guests, contributing to an enjoyable experience. Many reviewers appreciate the reasonable pricing and the family-friendly environment that makes it a great spot to meet up and relax. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in food quality and service speed, with a few guests noting that some dishes can be a bit overpriced or underwhelming. Noise levels due to the vibrant atmosphere can sometimes detract from the experience for those seeking a quieter setting. Despite these criticisms, many customers find the overall value worthwhile and consider Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. a repeat-worthy destination that successfully balances entertainment with quality seafood dining.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Samuel Trujillo
I’ve been to many Bubba Gump restaurants and have had nothing but excellent experiences. The quality of food was like eating out the bottom of the city dumpster! Absolutely disgusting!! Hire cooks that can cook! We had a wonderful server but the food was absolutely disgusting. Got the bill and I laughed. You serve cheap food that is disgusting and charge way over its worth! I’ll never ever come back here! ZERO STARS FOR ME!
Elnara Mammadova (elnaramedia)
My friend took me there to celebrate our achievements. I ordered Shrimp Mac & Cheese ($14.99) and juice. Apparently, they did not have juice for adults, so they put my juice order as a "Kids Drink" ($0.99). With tax, $17.26. Cannot say food was delicious. It was ordinary, not with a special taste. But this place has a great positive vibe. I would like to come back for that vibe again.
Whitney Traeholt
We didn’t listen to the reviews and I wish we would’ve. My husband and I both ordered the shrimp and crab boil. It looked a lot better than it tasted. The shrimp and crab were overcooked, very dry and rubbery. The potatoes were undercooked, still crispy and tasted like raw potatoes. Our waitress was decent, friendly. Very disappointed. We LOVE the Las Vegas location but this one was completely different. What a let down. I would not go back.
LK Warde
See photos - Advertisement on the sidewalk said $3 domestics all day on Thursday. Today is Thursday. I asked about the $3 beers, and they said that is only available at the bar. I said, "May I sit at the bar?" They said that the bar was not open yet. It is 2:00 p.m. So I can't drink at the bar with the $3 domestics all day, but the specials for $3 domestics are "all day"? This is why restaurants fail.
Jason Dunn
I ordered the Texas Cajun Chicken Sandwich and it was excellent. A great blend of spices and flavours. Everything tasted fresh.
How to reach Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
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Why Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. with your friends?
If you're looking for a lively, memorable spot to gather with friends or family, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is an exceptional choice. Rooted in the charm and nostalgia of the iconic film Forrest Gump, this restaurant blends engaging themed decor, vibrant energy, and an impressive menu centered on seafood, especially shrimp, which offers something fun for everyone. The atmosphere invites casual, easy-going socializing with a touch of movie magic that sparks conversation and laughter. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, organizing a reunion, or simply craving a friendly outing, the restaurant's welcoming vibe ensures everyone feels comfortable and entertained. The location at the Mall of America adds convenience and makes it a natural stop for a complete day of fun and social activities. With friendly staff, creative dishes, and interactive elements like signs to signal your server without interruptions, the restaurant is designed to keep groups feeling relaxed, engaged, and well-fed. Ultimately, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. offers more than just a meal—it's an experience tailored to making gatherings with friends truly special and fun-filled.
What kind of activities can you do at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. that make it perfect for groups?
At Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., the activities available go well beyond just dining. Themed heavily around Forrest Gump, the restaurant is decorated with movie memorabilia such as still photos, costumes, and script reproductions that provide great conversation starters and photo ops for your group. This immersive environment encourages groups to explore and engage with elements of the movie that everyone loves, making it a unique social experience. The venue is also prepared for hosting private events, parties, and celebrations, offering spaces that can accommodate various group sizes comfortably. The restaurant employs a “flag system” on tables where diners can flip signs to signal if they need service or prefer no interruptions, allowing groups to control their dining pace and privacy. This means you can savor your food and talk without feeling rushed. Additionally, there is ample seating and a full bar, providing a variety of drinks including freshly hand-shaken margaritas, perfect for toasting with friends. The Bubba Gump experience thus combines great food, friendly customer service, and an entertaining setting that makes it uniquely suited for group meetups.
Why is the dining experience at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. especially suited for groups and families?
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. caters admirably to groups and families due to its extensive and diverse menu, accommodating many dietary needs including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The menu focuses on shrimp and seafood but also offers American, Cajun, and Creole dishes that appeal to a broad range of tastes, satisfying the different preferences often found in group gatherings. The portion sizes are generous, making sharing plates and sampling multiple dishes a fun and communal experience. The restaurant’s welcoming ambiance, with friendly and attentive staff, enhances the group dynamic—servers work to balance attentive service without intruding on conversations. High chairs and facilities for families with young children are available, as well as kid-friendly specials and promotions (such as free kids’ meals with purchases on specific days), ensuring that even the youngest diners feel included and happy. The setting allows family members of different ages to relax and enjoy quality time without hassle, giving adults and kids alike a seamless, enjoyable outing.
How does Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.'s location at the Mall of America enhance group meetups?
Strategically positioned on the third floor of the Mall of America near its southeast corner, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. benefits enormously from its prime location. The Mall of America is a premier entertainment and shopping destination, drawing massive crowds daily, which makes the restaurant highly accessible and convenient for groups who often have diverse plans. Meeting here allows your party to combine shopping, entertainment, and dining all in one spot, adding layers of fun to the meetup experience. After a satisfying meal at Bubba Gump, your group can take advantage of the mall’s attractions—from rides and aquarium visits to live shows and retail therapy—making the whole day cohesive and effortless. For those travelling together or needing parking, the mall provides ample spaces, and the restaurant itself offers easy table service and a friendly atmosphere to decompress after hours of mall activities. This location is particularly suited for friends who want both a great meal and a full day of group fun without logistical complications.
What makes the food and drinks at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. a highlight for group gatherings?
The heart of Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is its food and drinks, which delight shrimp lovers and seafood enthusiasts with creative offerings inspired by the film's shrimping theme. The menu features a rich variety of shrimp dishes—from classic fried shrimp baskets to spicy Cajun shrimp and flavorful grilled options—that encourage sharing and tasting across the table. In addition to seafood, there are numerous American and Creole dishes so that everyone in your group has something they’ll enjoy. The cocktail menu shines with handcrafted margaritas and other signature beverages that keep the atmosphere festive and lively. The full bar options cater to every preference, providing perfect drink pairings for your meal and toasts to special occasions. This culinary variety combined with quality preparation ensures your group’s dining experience is not only satisfying but also memorable. It’s an ideal setting for friends to relax, savor delicious dishes, and elevate their celebration with great drinks.
How does the staff and service contribute to a great group experience at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.?
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.’s staff frequently receives praise for their friendly, efficient, and accommodating service, which is crucial when managing larger groups. The team members are skilled at balancing attentiveness with giving diners space, a rare and appreciated feature that allows guests to fully enjoy their conversations and meals without unnecessary disruptions. The unique signal system with table flags ensures that groups can indicate when they are ready to order or need assistance discreetly. Servers know how to keep the group engaged, bring items promptly, and accommodate special requests or dietary restrictions with professionalism and warmth. This attentiveness fosters a welcoming environment especially for events like birthdays, meetups, or celebrations where smooth service is vital. The staff's ability to manage the rhythm of service enhances the overall atmosphere, making Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. not just a restaurant, but a place where friends feel genuinely cared for during their gathering.
What private event or party options does Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. offer for group meetups?
For larger or more formal group meetups, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. provides excellent private event options. Their spaces can be reserved to host birthdays, reunions, business gatherings, or special celebrations, combining the fun and festive movie-themed environment with a setting designed exclusively for your party. Professional event coordination services help tailor the experience to your group’s needs, from menu customization to audio-visual setups if needed. Holding a private event also means your group can benefit from personalized service and greater privacy, perfect for occasions when you want the party to have its own dedicated atmosphere. These private bookings make Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. a versatile venue, suited both for casual get-togethers and more organized events. Group members can enjoy uninterrupted time together in a vibrant, fun setting synonymous with great food, camaraderie, and unique entertainment elements inspired by the film Forrest Gump.
Why is Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. a restaurant that encourages repeat visits from groups?
The combination of engaging ambiance, quality food, accommodating staff, and a convenient location makes Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. a place groups want to come back to time and again. The menu offers enough variety to keep dining experiences fresh and exciting, so each visit brings a chance to discover new favorites. The themed environment connects people through shared appreciation of the movie and its storytelling elements, making each meetup feel unique and nostalgic. Additionally, the restaurant often runs promotions and special events, such as kid-friendly offers or seasonal menus, that add value for frequent visitors. The flexibility to host private events also means groups keep Bubba Gump in mind for celebrations, ensuring it's a go-to venue for creating long-lasting memories. The consistent positive feedback on food, service, and welcoming atmosphere supports why it remains a favorite spot for friends and families looking to enjoy good times together.
Overall, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. combines thematic fun, excellent seafood, versatile event options, and attentive service in a location designed for socializing, making it a premier choice for any group gathering.