When asking yourself about something to do near me in Lakewood with a group of friends or family, consider
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings
Why Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings is a longstanding American franchise, renowned for serving authentic Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks along with a variety of wings flavored to suit many tastes. Established in 1986, Charleys has grown into the world's largest cheesesteak franchise with over 800 locations, providing a casual and quick-service dining experience perfect for meeting up with friends. At Charleys, guests can enjoy not only their signature cheesesteaks, grilled subs, and buffalo-style chicken wings but also sides like fries and refreshing lemonades, making it an ideal spot for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The brand is committed to consistency and quality through their comprehensive training programs for staff, reflecting in their food preparation and services. Many locations feature both mall food courts and standalone restaurants, catering to a wide audience. Their menu offers something for everyone, including crowd-pleasing wings in flavors such as Buffalo, Lemon Pepper, Korean BBQ, and the notably spicy Nashville Hot Wings, providing memorable tastes for group outings.
Here's what people think of Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings
As of recent, Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings holds a 2.9-star rating based on 59 reviews.
User reviews of Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings are mixed, reflected in the average rating of 2.9 out of 5 from 59 reviews. Positive feedback often highlights the flavorful wings and classic cheesesteak offerings, praising the variety of wing sauces and the hearty, enjoyable sandwiches. Customers appreciate the convenience of locations and the rapid service, especially in mall and airport settings, making Charleys a good option for a casual meet-up or quick bite. However, negative reviews frequently mention inconsistent food quality, with some diners experiencing undercooked items or lackluster preparation. Service has also been a point of criticism in certain locations, with complaints about wait times and staff attentiveness. Cleanliness and order accuracy were occasionally noted as concerns. Despite the mixed reviews, Charleys continues to expand, and many customers remain loyal for its signature flavors and traditional Philly cheesesteak experience. The reviews overall suggest that while there are some operational challenges, Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings offers a familiar and tasty option for cheesesteak and wing enthusiasts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Miguel
Meh, it was ok! October 19th @6:30pm is when I came here. Tables and floor was kinda dirty, I got the California chicken sandwich with a large fry, pics included, it's very debatable that this was a large fry but nonetheless they were tasty and not too salty. Sandwich was mid, idk maybe next time I'll try the chicken Philly instead. I wanted to give 2.5 stars but can't. The app said food ready at 6:33pm, however when I went to the counter the guy at the register, looked so puzzled, then he looks at some orders that was their on the counter, and says no sorry ur order is ready yet! 🙄 They hadn't even started my order yet, so had to wait more. Chicken portion was ok, however lettuce and tomatoes were not, especially the tomatoes looked so small as shown in pic. I love ranch but damn my sandwich was drenched in it. I would've given 4 stars had my order been ready when they said it would, I'll probably be back though maybe next time will be better. P. S. It's inside the Walmart FYI.
Brandy Davis
We asked for a Buffalo cheesesteak with no banana peppers or veggies and specifically said no lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles. Got our food and it had lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles on it. I asked for the sandwich to be remade without the vegetables. After the sandwich was being remade, the cashier tried to tell me that no vegetables means no toppings .... last I checked lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles are vegetables. I thought it was rude to try and tell me we ordered wrong when we specifically asked for these items to be removed. When we received the correct sandwich, it had hardly any meat on it. My regular sandwich had more meat on the than the large that was corrected. The customer service is severely lacking at this location. Every single person behind the counter just stared at me like I was the problem because they had to remake a sandwich that they messed up. We try to eat here every other week when we grocery shop. Pretty sure we will never be back.
Dan M
Service was friendly and fast. Had the old school cheesesteak 1/5. Steak was extremely salty, bread was okay, cheese sauce added to saltiness.
Jasmin Aquino (Jax)
Absolutely terrible, employees wearing earbuds, didn't get my order right, a man fell due to a medical issue and spilled a drink in the process(the man falling is not the issue we were happy to help) but I informed them of the spill and they proceeded to laugh as soon as I turned around which is incredibly disrespectful,and are not wearing proper clothing for food handling. It seems they have no proper manners or respect for their customers. Will never eat here again.
Alex Silvia
I see local guides trashing this place but I’m a local too and Idk what kind of standards you expect from this Walmart but be aware this is a place homeless folks pass through. The service and atmosphere isn’t going to be great but you can come here and pick up a good meal with great fries and a slushy and that is a worth a good review to me.
How to reach Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings
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Why Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings with your friends?
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings offers a casual, fun, and flavorful spot to gather with friends and family, making it a great meetup destination. This restaurant is known for its iconic Philly cheesesteaks, made fresh with quality ingredients that satisfy cravings for hearty, comforting food. Whether you're looking to enjoy a laid-back lunch, a quick dinner, or a snack with your group, Charleys provides a relaxed vibe where conversation and good food flow easily. The variety on the menu—from cheesesteaks to wings and loaded fries—ensures everyone in your party can find something they love, promoting sharing and a communal eating experience. Even though the rating hovers around 2.9 from about 59 reviews, many patrons appreciate the generous portions and consistent flavors, making it a worthwhile stop especially for fans of classic American comfort food. The ambiance is informal, welcoming groups who want to connect over casual meals with bold flavors. Its convenient locations, including urban spots like Union Station, add to the appeal as a meetup place that’s easy to get to and perfect for spontaneous or planned gatherings.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings with a group?
When you bring a group to Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings, the main activity centers around food, but it’s also a social event where friends can bond over shared meals. You can indulge in trying different kinds of cheesesteaks or wings, sharing loaded fries topped with cheese and other savory toppings, and even sampling signature drinks or lemonades that complement each meal. The menu is designed to cater to diverse tastes, so groups can order several dishes to share family-style, turning eating into a fun tasting experience. Some locations may include communal seating arrangements, ideal for conversations and easy interaction among group members. The casual setup lends itself nicely to celebrating small occasions or simply catching up without formalities. While there might not be structured entertainment or games on site, the vibrant flavors and friendly atmosphere foster interaction and laughter, making the experience memorable. Ordering can be quick and convenient, including options for takeout if your group wants to grab food and move to a nearby park or home to continue the gathering.
Why is Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings the perfect spot for a group meetup?
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings’s appeal as a group meetup venue lies in its straightforward approach to great American comfort food paired with a relaxed environment. The menu’s focus on cheesesteaks and wings caters to classic crowd-pleasers, ensuring no one is left searching for something suitable. The generous portion sizes make it easy to order a few dishes and share, encouraging a communal dining experience that strengthens social connections. The pricing tends to be moderate, offering affordability for groups who want quality without breaking the bank. Several locations are positioned in busy areas or transit hubs, adding convenience for groups traveling from different parts of town. The simplicity of the dining experience means there’s little hassle—just walk in, order, and enjoy each other’s company alongside satisfying food. Though it doesn’t offer elaborate entertainment, the combination of hearty food, available sharing options, and casual atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for friends or family who want to gather informally with minimal fuss.
How does the menu at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings cater to group preferences?
Charleys offers a focused but diverse menu that meets various preferences within a group. The flagship cheesesteak sandwiches come with different options, featuring classic Angus beef or chicken, so meat preferences can be accommodated. Wings are another highlight, with a variety of sauces such as Buffalo, Nashville Hot, and other signature blends offering different heat levels and flavors for spice lovers or those wanting something milder. Side dishes like their famous “ultimate fries” topped with cheese and other toppings provide a great accompaniment and additional sharing options. For groups wanting to try multiple flavors, Charleys enables ordering several smaller items or combos to sample. The inclusion of refreshing lemonades and other drinks rounds out the menu nicely. This flexibility means your gathering isn’t forced into one type of food, ensuring everyone feels catered to while keeping the meal cohesive. Whether feeding picky eaters or adventurous palates, the menu is accessible and satisfying as a collective experience.
What is the atmosphere like at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings for hosting meetups?
The atmosphere at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings is casual and approachable, perfect for informal get-togethers. The restaurant décor is often simple but functional, focusing on creating a comfortable environment rather than any upscale dining vibe. This lends itself well to groups who want to relax, chat, and eat without pressure or long waits. The noise level tends to be lively but manageable, enhancing a feeling of energy when everyone’s enjoying their food and company. Because many locations are fast-casual spots that cater to commuters or walk-in guests, seating may be a mix of booths and tables, accommodating various group sizes. The environment encourages quick service but does not rush patrons, striking a balance between efficiency and comfort. This makes it easy to plan a meetup that fits a lunch break, early dinner, or casual evening snack. Its straightforward setting helps groups focus on each other and the shared experience of enjoying classic comfort foods.
What do customers say about their experience meeting up at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings?
Customer reviews present a mixed but generally positive picture for group visits to Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings. Many patrons appreciate the generous portion sizes and bold flavors, especially praising the cheesesteaks for satisfying authentic cravings. Social diners note that the menu’s shareable nature helps enhance the experience of eating together. However, some have pointed out inconsistencies with food quality, such as fries arriving cold or service delays, which can affect the overall experience. Despite this, many find the value good for the price and the convenience of locations helpful when planning meetups. The relaxed setting encourages a no-fuss atmosphere where friends can gather spontaneously or as a planned event without elaborate preparation. Overall, while not perfect, Charleys remains a favorite for those seeking classic, casual American eats with friends or family in a welcoming environment.
How accessible and convenient is Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings for group gatherings?
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings scores well on accessibility and convenience for group outings. Many locations are situated in high-traffic areas such as city centers and transit hubs, making them easy to reach via public transportation, walking, or driving. This geographic advantage simplifies coordinating meetups from different parts of a city. Parking availability varies by location but is generally manageable in busy urban settings. Ordering processes are streamlined, with in-store, drive-thru, and online options allowing groups to tailor how they receive their food. For larger groups, advance orders or catering options might be possible depending on location, ensuring the meetup runs smoothly. The operating hours often cover lunch and dinner times when groups are likely to gather. Overall, Charleys combines location, menu efficiency, and an easy ordering system to provide a hassle-free meetup experience that supports group socializing.
What kind of occasions are best suited for meetups at Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings?
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings works well for a variety of informal occasions ideal for groups looking for relaxed and casual dining. It’s perfect for weekend hangouts, post-work gatherings, casual celebrations like birthdays, or college friends meeting between classes. Sports fans might enjoy pre- or post-game meetups here, pairing the hearty wings and cheesesteaks with lively conversations. The restaurant also suits family gatherings where kids and adults alike enjoy simple, flavorful fare. While it may not be a traditional spot for formal celebrations, its approachable vibe makes it a dependable choice when low-key comfort food is the priority. For groups wanting a quick, satisfying meal without complexity, Charleys delivers a hospitable setting where everyone can focus on connecting over food they love.
In what ways does Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings support group orders and sharing?
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings facilitates group dining through portion sizes and menu design that encourage sharing. Many of the sandwiches and wings come in substantial serving sizes, allowing groups to order multiple items to share rather than each person ordering independently. Side dishes such as ultimate fries and other snacks are ideal for passing around the table, enabling an interactive dining experience. This shared approach fosters a social dynamic where guests explore different flavors together. The menu structure also includes combo options that make ordering simpler for groups, pairing main items with sides and drinks efficiently. For convenience, Charleys offers online ordering and curbside pickup, which helps when coordinating group meals on the go. These features combine to make group dining streamlined, affordable, and enjoyable at Charleys.
How does Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings compare to other group dining options?
Compared to other casual American eateries, Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings carves out a niche with its focus on authentic Philly cheesesteaks and wings. While some competitors offer broader menus or more upscale atmospheres, Charleys’s strength lies in delivering a classic, no-nonsense comfort food experience that is familiar and accessible. The casual vibe contrasts with fast-food chains by emphasizing quality portions and bold flavors. In comparison to sit-down family restaurants, Charleys provides faster service and a more informal environment, better suited for spontaneous meetups or groups on tighter schedules. Though the rating reflects some inconsistency in experiences, the brand’s growing presence and targeted menu continue to attract groups who appreciate straightforward, hearty fare. For those prioritizing simplicity, good value, and a satisfying taste of Philly-style sandwiches, Charleys stands out as a solid choice.
What future improvements could enhance Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings as a meetup location?
To further enhance its appeal as a meetup spot, Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings could focus on improving consistency in food quality and service speed, which some reviews suggest need attention. Introducing more diverse seating options, such as larger tables or private areas for bigger groups, would accommodate social gatherings more comfortably. Adding subtle entertainment elements like TVs showing sports or upbeat background music might enrich the atmosphere and provide additional engagement during visits. Expanding menu variety to include vegetarian or plant-based options could broaden its appeal to more diverse groups. Finally, developing dedicated group ordering or catering services with customizable packages would help streamline planning and elevate the dining experience for special occasions. These improvements would strengthen Charleys’s position as a go-to destination for friends and families seeking satisfying, sociable meals.