When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Caroline
Why Caroline is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Caroline & Company is a well-established locally owned gift store located in Lafayette, Louisiana. With over 27 years in business, this charming shop offers a variety of gifts, jewelry, housewares, baby accessories, and unique items that make it an ideal place for friends to meet and explore together. The store is known for its welcoming atmosphere and personalized service that makes every visit memorable. Customers appreciate the opportunity to browse through carefully curated selections, perfect for special occasions or everyday treasures. Beyond shopping, Caroline & Company fosters a cozy environment where guests can enjoy spending time with friends in a relaxed setting. The store’s owners and staff are recognized for their dedication and friendly approach, creating a community feel that keeps customers returning. This business also emphasizes excellent customer care, making it a great destination for anyone looking to find thoughtful gifts while enjoying quality time with friends.
Here's what people think of Caroline
As of recent, Caroline holds a 4.8-star rating based on 12660 reviews.
Customer reviews of Caroline & Company reflect a predominantly positive experience, with many users praising the friendly and helpful staff, the variety and quality of products, and the overall welcoming atmosphere. Positive reviews highlight the store's family-like environment, opportunities for personal connections, and the ability of the staff to help find perfect gifts or job placements through their affiliated services. Many reviewers appreciate the company's emphasis on work-life balance and the supportive culture the management fosters. However, some negative reviews mention challenges such as occasional hectic situations, management inconsistencies, and high staff turnover rates. A few workers reported issues with stressful periods and micro-management, which somewhat impacted their work experience. Despite these critiques, the overwhelming majority of feedback remains highly favorable, cementing Caroline & Company as a beloved local business with a strong reputation for customer care and community involvement. Overall, reviews indicate that Caroline & Company is a great place to shop and a commendable local business known for treating both customers and employees with respect and kindness.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Heather C.
We came in with a group of 20 for Sunday Brunch. They were very kind to us and gave us a realistic waiting time for seating. We appreciated that they were able to accommodate us at two tables. Our server was professional ames on top of everything. Everyone enjoyed their meals. I especially enjoyed my ricotta pancakes and my marshmallow latte. I look forward to returning for a normal dining time to try their general menu.
Jonna Baker
This place is beautiful and the bar upstairs is really cool. The service was great, we felt attended to and the food was served in a reasonable time. We were less impressed with the food itself. While there is good enough variety, we found the portions are on the smaller side and I didn’t like the taste of the Benedict plate I ordered. I also got their detox drink which the waiter said was a popular choice and found the coconut water taste so overwhelming. The flat white my husband ordered tasted like drip coffee with some milk added in. I can’t speak to other meals but we didn’t love the brunch. I gave this place 4 stars because of the atmosphere and the service.
Shelby Jeter
Ana Maria was our waitress and she was outstanding! She was very attentive and so so nice. She took the time to talk to us about things to do in Austin and a delicious coffee spot. The food was amazing and the atmosphere was great. We will be back! Thanks Ana!
İlhan MERCAN
This place deserves 5 stars! Good food and cocktails at affordable prices! Every other day, they have different discounts on different items. When we were there, tacos were for three dollars! Also, they had a good deal for one of their cocktails! It’s in the middle of the city, and they have a very nice terrace to chill on! Definitely and highly recommended!
gordon devoss
We had an ultra good breakfast here on a Saturday morning. No wait (but fairly busy), good seating inside. The inside dining area is well decorated and had a house music playing in the background. Good service, fun menu, good drinks in a nice atmosphere. We got the deviled egg plate....it was go good. I could have eaten a dozen....the cinnamon roll was pretty wild too. It kinda had a croissant vibe going on. We got waffles and pancakes with fruit for the kids. Standard stuff, the boys crushed it. I got the ham/cheddar omelette with heirloom tomatoes, my wife got the breakfast chicken enchiladas. Both were really good. We had a few cocktails, and a coffee. Thoroughly enjoyed the food and the experience.
How to reach Caroline
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Website: None
Why rally at Caroline with your friends?
Caroline is an exceptional venue to gather with friends, offering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that balances cozy comfort with urban energy. Located in the heart of Austin, Texas, on Congress Avenue, this spot is perfectly positioned for easy access and a lively backdrop for any meetup. It boasts a near-perfect rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 12,600 reviews, a strong testament to the consistently positive experience patrons enjoy. Whether you're planning to catch up over coffee, enjoy a hearty brunch, catch some drinks, or settle in for a full dinner, Caroline caters to all occasions with a versatile menu and a bar that serves craft cocktails and selections of wine and beer. The ambiance is lively yet relaxed, making it ideal for groups who want a place that feels both special and approachable. Its spacious, airy design features several open areas that encourage conversation and connection, important elements when bringing friends or family together. With brunch served well into the day and dinner lasting until late, Caroline offers flexible timing that suits diverse schedules, making your group gathering both convenient and memorable.
What activities can you enjoy at Caroline?
At Caroline, the activities extend beyond just eating and drinking. It's a social hub where every visit can feel like a celebration. First, the restaurant offers a full-service bar that features craft cocktails, wines, and beers which are perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with flavors or simply want a refined drink alongside their meal. Brunch here is a standout experience with American classics and creative dishes that cater to dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. This wide culinary variety ensures that everyone in a group can find something delightful, encouraging sharing and tasting among friends. The environment itself invites relaxation and interaction with its open layout and multiple seating areas, including outdoor seating that is perfect for enjoying Austin’s pleasant weather. For entertainment, Caroline offers televisions discreetly placed for those interested in catching a game without overpowering the social space. Private dining options are also available, making it an excellent choice for groups looking for a more intimate gathering or celebration. These features collectively create a dynamic setting where socializing, dining, and entertainment blend seamlessly.
Why is Caroline perfect for a group meetup?
Caroline stands out as a prime location for group meetups due to its spacious layout and attentive service, which help accommodate parties of all sizes comfortably. The venue’s design, which includes open and separate spaces, allows groups to find their own niche while still feeling part of the larger energetic scene. Friends and family looking to reconnect or celebrate will find the staff highly welcoming and focused on creating a positive experience, contributing to that warm "third place" feeling outside of home and work. Having a full-service bar and an expansive menu means groups with varied tastes and dietary needs can be satisfied without hassle or compromise. The convenience of valet parking and an easily accessible downtown location add critical logistical ease, encouraging attendance without the stress of parking or long travels. Vibrant yet relaxed, Caroline manages to string together all the elements a great group meetup needs: fantastic food and drinks, a comfortable but lively atmosphere, flexible seating, and a commitment to excellent guest service.
What types of groups and occasions are best suited for Caroline?
Caroline is suitable for a wide range of groups and occasions, from casual catchups and weekend brunches to after-work drinks and celebratory dinners. Its inclusive and flexible environment means it can host families, friend groups, colleagues, and even small private parties effectively. The private dining options are especially useful for birthdays, anniversaries, or more formal events seeking privacy amid a bustling locale. Groups interested in culinary exploration will appreciate the diverse menu that caters to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates, making meal-sharing an interactive and enjoyable activity. Those who want to enjoy Austin’s cultural happenings will find Caroline’s central location convenient for pairing a meal or drinks with downtown events or nightlife. Small to medium groups looking for an inviting spot where conversation flows as easily as the drinks will find its ambiance both energizing and comfortable. The provision of outdoor seating opens opportunities for groups seeking a more casual vibe or wishing to enjoy the city’s famous sunshine and breezes.
What makes Caroline’s food and drink offerings stand out?
Caroline’s menu is known for its high-quality American fare paired with innovative twists that elevate the dining experience. The kitchen focuses on fresh, house-made preparations that resonate with the local Austin vibe—fresh coffee, approachable yet refined dishes, and a thoughtful selection of beverages. They cater thoughtfully to various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices, which makes the menu inclusive and easy to recommend to diverse groups. Their craft cocktails are carefully curated, combining classic recipes with local ingredients or contemporary infusions, ideal for guests who enjoy a well-crafted drink experience. The brunch menu is especially popular, offering crowd-pleasers that range from hearty to lighter options, perfect for any time of day. Coupled with a wine and beer selection that complements the food menu, Caroline ensures that drink pairing is seamless and contributes to a rounded outing experience. The focus on quality and variety makes it a standout choice for those who care about both the taste and the atmosphere of their dining experience.
How does the atmosphere at Caroline enhance the group experience?
Caroline’s atmosphere is designed to be engaging without overwhelming, making it perfect for groups who want to socialize comfortably. Its open and airy design floods the space with natural light during the day and transitions to a warm, inviting glow at night. This creates a setting that can be both relaxing and festive depending on the time of day and occasion. The layout supports interaction with multiple seating options, including long tables for big parties and cozier corners for smaller gatherings, enabling flexibility for groups of all sizes. The music and television placements add ambient entertainment that never dominates conversation, enhancing the social vibe rather than distracting from it. Staff are known for their friendly and attentive service, contributing to an atmosphere where guests feel well cared for. These environmental details combine to create a venue where groups can linger, laugh, share stories, and enjoy quality time together without feeling rushed or cramped. This balance of ambiance and comfort is key to why many choose Caroline for meaningful meetups.
What practical amenities make Caroline convenient for group meetups?
Caroline goes beyond just good food and atmosphere by offering amenities that ease the logistics of group meetups, making gatherings less stressful and more enjoyable. Accessible valet parking right on Congress Avenue removes parking hassles common in busy downtown areas, a considerable convenience for those arriving together by car. The option to make reservations ensures groups can secure seating without the uncertainty of waiting, which is crucial for larger parties or special occasions. The restaurant accepts credit cards and offers takeout, which adds flexibility for groups preferring to mix dine-in with takeaway options or accommodate various payment preferences. Non-smoking indoor and outdoor seating options allow guests to choose their preferred environment while maintaining a comfortable space for all. These practical touches showcase Caroline’s attention to holistic guest experience, reflecting their understanding of the needs of groups and the desire to make every visit seamless and enjoyable.
Is Caroline accessible for diverse dietary needs and preferences?
Caroline is highly accommodating when it comes to dietary restrictions and preferences, making it an excellent choice for groups with diverse eating habits. Its menu features vegetarian and vegan options, as well as dishes that are gluten-free, ensuring no guest feels limited in their choices. This inclusivity supports a stress-free dining experience for groups who may have members with allergies, sensitivities, or lifestyle food choices. With the rise of health-conscious and ethical eating trends, Caroline’s ability to cater to such a spectrum of diets broadens its appeal considerably. Their careful approach to menu design ensures flavor and satisfaction are not sacrificed regardless of dietary needs. For groups, this means less planning and more enjoyment, as every member can find thoughtful dishes crafted to meet their individual preferences without compromise.
Why do customer reviews rate Caroline so highly?
With an outstanding rating of 4.8 stars backed by over 12,600 reviews, Caroline has clearly earned its reputation as a top-tier dining and social venue. The consistent praise spotlights the exceptional quality of food, drink, and service, along with the inviting and lively atmosphere. Customers frequently comment on the friendliness and professionalism of staff, praising their attentiveness and genuine hospitality. Many reviews highlight the restaurant’s ability to balance bustling energy with comfort, a quality that appeals strongly to groups looking to socialize without chaos. The flexibility in seating, the quality of the menu, and the thoughtful accommodations all contribute to the overwhelmingly positive feedback. The volume of reviews also indicates sustained excellence, not just a singular period of popularity. Such a strong community endorsement makes Caroline a dependable choice for groups aiming for a memorable and enjoyable meetup experience.