When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Chili's Grill & Bar
Why Chili's Grill & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chili's Grill & Bar is a well-loved American casual dining restaurant chain established in 1975 in Texas by Larry Lavine. Known for its vibrant and fun atmosphere, it offers a welcoming place for friends and family to gather and enjoy a relaxed meal. The restaurant combines classic American favorites with Tex-Mex cuisine, featuring dishes such as fajitas, ribs, shrimp tacos, quesadillas, and the iconic Oldtimer® hamburger. Chili's is celebrated for its Southwestern-inspired menu, which caters to a variety of tastes including nutritional, allergen-friendly, and vegetarian options, making it accessible to many diners. The chain’s casual yet spirited environment, complemented by quality food and refreshing drinks like margaritas and frozen beverages, makes it ideal for socializing and celebration. Located in multiple cities, each Chili's brings a consistent, informal dining experience with a focus on friendly service and delicious, affordable meals.
Here's what people think of Chili's Grill & Bar
As of recent, Chili's Grill & Bar holds a 4-star rating based on 1951 reviews.
Users generally appreciate Chili's Grill & Bar for its friendly and attentive service, with many positive reviews highlighting the quality of food such as the popular White Spinach Queso, various dressings, and overall flavor offerings. Customers often mention the enjoyable dining atmosphere suitable for family and friends, noting that the menu adaptations have kept the choices fresh and enjoyable. However, some negative reviews point to occasional inconsistencies such as cleanliness issues and variability in service quality across locations. A few reviewers also note that the food can sometimes be average depending on the specific restaurant visited. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus remains positive, reflecting Chili's as a reliable option for casual dining with good value and welcoming service. In summary, reviews reveal Chili's as a dependable chain that balances familiar favorites with a lively environment, making it a popular destination for casual meetups and hearty meals.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mira Bou-Chaaya
Great service and atmosphere! The food itself was pretty good, but our server - I believe her name was Brigette - was incredibly attentive and sweet. She went out of her way to offer amazing customized vegetarian options from the menu and made sure we were happy with our meal. We also ordered a mini volcano cake that came after about 20 minutes (which we were more than okay with waiting for) that the manager Sam felt so bad about he comped on our bill and sent us home with full sized versions to take home. This was more than enough to make up for the wait and really made us feel like he cared about our experience :)
Cris Family
Good service, bad food. I ordered the meat, it was medium-done and it arrived raw. The shrimp were tiny and tasteless. The atmosphere and service is good.
Maurielle C
Chilis is a reasonable price for reasonably good food. The flavors were yummy and I’d recommend stopping by if you’re interested. The chocolate cake is delicious - get it for desert if you plan to have any. Our waitress was very nice but was a bit forgetful, all was well though. Service was good and we enjoyed our time. You can get a lot for your money!
Scott Aube
I worked here from 89'-93'. Place looks great. Food was decent. Service lacking. My friend ate. I just ordered a beer. I had to ask 3 different people, and didn't get my beverage for 20 minutes. I may never return
Tiffany Morisue
Taste and quality as expected for this chain restaurant. Our waitress Shakyla was awesome and helped my son with vegetarian options. Wait time and facility good+. Great option for a late dinner when other places are closed on a Sunday night when visiting the University of Michigan.
How to reach Chili's Grill & Bar
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Website: None
Why Chili's Grill & Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chili's Grill & Bar with your friends? Because Chili's offers an inviting atmosphere that blends casual dining with vibrant energy, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings. Whether you're catching up after a long week or celebrating a special occasion, Chili's has cultivated a space where friendship and fun go hand in hand. Founded in 1975 in Texas, Chili’s has grown into a beloved national chain known for its warm, welcoming vibe, Tex-Mex-inspired menus, and a full bar that fuels the party spirit. The restaurant’s layout, which includes multiple TVs and comfortable seating, ensures everyone can relax and enjoy the moment, whether watching a big game or engaging in lively conversation. Plus, with a high rating of 4.0 from nearly two thousand reviews, Chili’s successful balance of great food, friendly service, and an energetic bar scene gives you confidence that your group will have a memorable outing. Chili's is not just a place to eat; it’s where good times and good company seamlessly connect in a casual yet lively setting.
What activities does Chili’s Grill & Bar offer that make it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, Chili’s is designed to be a social hotspot with plenty of communal dining options like shareable appetizers and party platters featuring wings, fajitas, and quesadillas that encourage friendly sharing. The bar area is a focal point, showcasing a variety of creative cocktails including their famous margaritas, which change monthly to keep things exciting. Chili’s lively bar encourages mingling and is equipped with multiple TVs broadcasting sports and entertainment, perfect for groups who want to cheer on their favorite teams together. The venue often hosts happy hour specials on beers and drinks, helping groups save while enjoying quality time. Moreover, Chili's supports casual celebrations such as birthdays and watch parties with flexible seating arrangements and the option to pre-order platters or customize menu offerings to suit guests’ tastes and dietary needs. All these factors contribute to a dynamic experience that caters to both casual hangouts and special gatherings.
Why is Chili’s menu ideal for groups with diverse tastes? Chili’s menu is remarkably versatile, appealing to a broad audience by blending classic American dishes with rich Tex-Mex influences. From hamburgers and ribs to shrimp tacos and vegetarian options, there is something for everyone. This ensures that no one in your group feels left out and everyone can find a dish that satisfies their palate. The menu also includes allergen-friendly and nutritional options, which means guests can enjoy their meals comfortably regardless of dietary restrictions. In addition to main courses, Chili’s offers an array of appetizers, perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors. Large groups benefit from party platters that are convenient and cost-effective, allowing for communal dining and an interactive food experience. This menu flexibility makes Chili’s a one-stop destination for groups with mixed preferences, intensifying the communal vibe and encouraging culinary exploration in the company of friends.
How does the ambiance at Chili’s promote a fun and relaxed group experience? Chili’s atmosphere is intentionally crafted to be energetic yet approachable, striking a balance that appeals to people of all ages. The restaurant is typically decorated with warm Southwestern-inspired design elements, creating a cozy, informal setting that immediately puts guests at ease. The layout often includes a combination of booths, tables, and bar seating, accommodating groups large and small. Multiple large-screen TVs ensure that no one misses out on the latest sports or entertainment, fostering a collective viewing experience. This is especially appealing for groups who enjoy watching major sporting events while dining. The lively bar scene adds to the upbeat energy without ever feeling overbearing, supporting conversations and laughter. With upbeat music and friendly staff who prioritize good service and “works of heart,” as Chili’s calls it, the ambiance naturally encourages guests to unwind, socialize, and enjoy quality time together.
What makes Chili’s a reliable choice for hosting celebrations and special gatherings with friends or family? Beyond everyday dining, Chili’s excels as a venue for hosting larger events and special occasions. The restaurant’s flexible party platters and customizable menu options make meal planning for crowds convenient, reducing stress for hosts. Their full bar service, featuring specialty drinks and popular margaritas, provides a festive element perfect for celebrations. Many locations offer private or semi-private dining areas that provide a degree of intimacy for birthday parties, graduations, or casual reunions. Chili’s staff is experienced in managing group dynamics and event needs, offering attentive service without interrupting the flow of your gathering. Seasonal promotions and happy hour specials often add value to the experience, making it more affordable and enjoyable. Whether your group aims to have a spirited night out or a heartfelt family meal, Chili’s accommodates your plans with a consistent quality that keeps guests satisfied and engaged.
Why is Chili’s Grill & Bar considered a trustworthy and popular destination among casual dining chains? Chili’s reputation as a top casual dining chain has been built over decades, starting since its founding in 1975 by Larry Lavine and flourishing under the stewardship of Brinker International. It’s widely recognized for delivering a reliable combination of good food, consistent atmosphere, and solid service. Their 4.0-star rating across nearly two thousand reviews reflects a broad customer base that appreciates the quality they find at Chili’s. The chain’s ability to adapt over time—such as embracing modern trends on social media, refreshing menus, and enhancing guest experiences—demonstrates its commitment to staying relevant. Furthermore, Chili’s has a deep-rooted culture of community involvement, notably via its Create-A-Pepper campaign supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which adds a feel-good dimension to dining here. By blending history, innovation, customer satisfaction, and social responsibility, Chili’s sustains its popularity as a go-to casual dining hotspot capable of hosting groups large and small.
What does Chili’s bring to the table that differentiates it from other grill and bar establishments? Chili’s stands out through its trademark Southwest-inspired menu, rich with Tex-Mex classics that elevate the usual grill-and-bar fare. Their famed baby back ribs and fajitas are crowd-pleasers that are often cited as hallmark dishes. Beyond the food, Chili’s prioritizes a playful yet grounded dining atmosphere described internally as a “Let’s Play Restaurant,” reflecting a commitment to fun and friendly service. The restaurant’s integration of innovative drinks, especially their rotation of premium frozen margaritas made with Patrón tequila, also sets them apart. Chili’s also embraces technology and community—engaging customers with loyalty programs like My Chili’s for free chips and salsa, and fostering an active presence on platforms like TikTok to appeal to younger generations. This blend of culinary quality, spirited culture, and modern customer engagement offers something unique for groups looking to socialize and savor great meals without pretense.
How accessible and accommodating is Chili’s for diverse group sizes and needs? Chili’s is highly flexible when it comes to accommodating groups ranging from small gatherings to larger parties. Most locations feature a balanced combination of seating types, from cozy booths for intimate clusters to larger tables and communal seating that encourages conversation and sharing. For events or larger meetups, Chili’s offers party platters and pre-order options to streamline group dining. The menu accommodates various dietary preferences and needs, including vegetarian, allergen-sensitive, and nutritional options, bringing inclusivity to the table. In addition, Chili’s regularly rolls out promotions and happy hour specials to make dining out more budget-friendly, especially for groups. With attentive staff ready to assist in planning and coordinating meals, Chili’s ensures your meetup runs smoothly, regardless of group size or special requirements.
Why is chili’s a great spot to enjoy casual drinks and a lively bar scene with your friends? Chili’s is not just about great food—it’s also celebrated for an energetic bar scene that invites relaxed socializing. Their full bar features an impressive variety of beers, cocktails, and innovative mixed drinks, including their well-known handcrafted margaritas that rotate monthly with premium ingredients. Happy hour deals make enjoying drinks affordable, encouraging groups to linger longer and deepen their connection over shared drinks. Multiple TVs around the bar make it an exciting place for fans to catch sports events live, rooting for their favorite teams together in a communal environment. The space balances liveliness with comfort, allowing guests to chat, laugh, or even dance a bit without the chaos of a nightclub. This versatility makes Chili’s bar area an excellent hub for friends looking to unwind with spirited drinks and good company.
How does Chili’s combine tradition and modern trends to appeal to today’s diners? Chili’s Grill & Bar has a rich tradition dating back to its Texas origins in the mid-1970s, yet it actively evolves to meet contemporary tastes and cultural shifts. While preserving fan-favorite dishes like baby back ribs and fajitas, Chili’s has diversified its menu to include vegetarian and allergen-friendly options, acknowledging increasing dietary awareness. The brand also leverages digital platforms and social media, especially TikTok, to connect with younger generations and stay culturally relevant. Innovative marketing campaigns and loyalty programs reward repeat customers with perks like free chips and salsa, enhancing engagement through technology. Furthermore, Chili’s supports diversity and leadership initiatives within its organization, ensuring a progressive culture that resonates with modern diners. This blend of deep-rooted heritage and forward-thinking strategy positions Chili’s as a vibrant, inclusive destination for group dining and social experiences alike.