When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Drawbar
Why Drawbar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Drawbar in Atlanta offers a welcoming atmosphere that makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends. Renowned for its delicious food and great drinks, this bar and restaurant features a spacious outside seating area complete with super comfortable couches and chairs, providing a relaxing environment for social gatherings. The staff at Drawbar add to the appeal, with friendly and attentive service that makes guests feel genuinely cared for, contributing to a positive and memorable experience. Whether you're stopping by after work, meeting for a casual brunch, or enjoying a weekend outing, Drawbar’s combination of quality cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and cozy ambiance makes it a favorite local spot. The venue caters well to both casual visitors and business travelers seeking a vibrant yet comfortable place to unwind and connect with others.
Here's what people think of Drawbar
As of recent, Drawbar holds a 4.2-star rating based on 478 reviews.
Reviews of Drawbar reveal a generally positive experience among visitors. Many reviewers praised the high quality of both food and drinks, highlighting the well-crafted cocktails and delicious menu options. The comfort and appeal of the outdoor seating area, with its cozy couches and chairs, was also frequently noted as a major highlight. Customers appreciated the attentive and friendly service, with specific shout-outs to staff members like Taz, Shaughnessy, and Audrick for going above and beyond to enhance guests' dining experience. However, some reviews suggest that while the atmosphere and service are strong, occasional issues with wait times or peak-hour crowding might affect the experience. Despite this, the overall impression from most visitors is overwhelmingly positive, with many emphasizing that Drawbar is a reliable and enjoyable venue for both socializing and business gatherings. The collective reviews indicate that Drawbar successfully blends comfort, flavor, and hospitality to create a memorable destination in Atlanta.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amara Newsom
Outstanding food and drinks! The bourbon glazed salmon dish was definitely one of the best meals I’ve had so far this year. We sat outside and enjoyed the view. Of course the first come first serve is difficult but we ran into some nice women who gave us their spot so we could enjoy our date! It has a great laid back and relaxing ambiance. You have to take a picture by the wall art on the inside! All the workers were really friendly.
Xclusive Kitty
Mrs. Pamela was my awesome server. Very vibrant & eager to serve at 9 a.m. 😹 I searched " rooftop breakfast " & wound up here! It was a little hard to find since I was driving & didn't read it was located on the 2nd floor of a hotel. (somehow, it still felt like I was higher up) I enjoyed the peaceful setting with the view of downtown ATL. I did park in the parking garage because I was confused about the parking, but we found the restaurant with help from the nice valet driver. I even enjoyed the little walk. I love nice quiet places, sceneries & good customer service. Thanks, Mrs. Pamela & Drawbar for being just what I was looking for.
Darrin Rumph
Father's Day Dinner for 4 We arrived at The Interlock and parked in the designated lot, using ParkMobile to handle payment. We walked around for a few minutes—it took us a little while to locate the actual restaurant. It was our first time coming here, so we had to ask around a bit, but we eventually found it. We already knew ahead of time that they don’t take reservations unless you’re in a group of 8 to 12, so we planned to arrive early and just go with the flow. Luckily, our timing was perfect. We got there right on time and were able to grab a great outdoor table for four, right near the door. Once we got settled, we were handed menus. Those paper menus have seen better days, they were a little worn and wrinkled. Our server came by shortly after to take our drink orders. The menu offers a nice variety, with creative cocktails, shareable small plates, and hearty entrée options. My wife went with a Heineken, I ordered a Bearded Iris Homestyle IPA, our oldest chose a sweet tea, and our youngest picked the bright blue martini-style drink—Betty's Blue Lemonade. When the server returned, we were ready to place our food orders. The girls both went with cheeseburgers, while Wifey and I decided on the Surf & Turf Pasta. When I first saw “Surf & Turf,” I assumed the turf would be beef, but it turned out to be chicken—which was actually right up my alley. While we waited, we took in the setting—it’s hard not to appreciate the beautiful city views from our table. The food came out quicker than expected. The Surf & Turf Pasta was delicious—rich and flavorful with a spicy kick. For me, it was perfect, though for Wifey, it edged a little close to her spice limit. Still, she enjoyed it, but didn't finish the large portion. Perfect, more for me later. The girls were happy with their burgers, and everything was served fresh and hot. What really sets this place apart is the combination of great views and the seamless indoor-outdoor layout. It creates an ideal atmosphere for relaxing and catching up. Our server was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed throughout our visit. By the time we finished, the crowd had started to pick up, so we were glad we came when we did. I’d absolutely recommend this spot—it hits all the right notes for an elevated dining experience with amazing city views. 4.5 Rating @whatsthenextmemory
Jandira Manjenje
Drawbar is an amazing place! Very elegant and charming! It was myself, my husband and daughter (toddler) so it was so very spacious which allowed my daughter to walk around with no issues. The music very relaxing and beautiful ambience. The food was amazing! Pam was our server and she was simply amazing. Very pleasant and easy to talk to, showed interest on our daughter making our experience even more complete! It was an initial shock since it’s a hotel/restaurant but it was all amazing
C J
The salmon and brussel sprouts were delicious. The brussel sprouts looked a bit dry from other pictures but I was pleasantly surprised to find out they were anything but dry. I also had a "cornstar" martini. I'm not a fan of passionfruit but loved every drop of the martini. I also liked the laid back atmosphere and picturesque location. It was pretty empty on a Tuesday so I'll be sure to go back on a weekend.
How to reach Drawbar
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Why Drawbar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Drawbar with your friends? Drawbar offers the perfect blend of modern ambiance, scenic views, and diverse menu options that make it an ideal gathering spot for friends and family. Nestled on the third floor of the Bellyard Hotel at the Interlock in West Midtown Atlanta, this venue combines the excitement of a rooftop bar with the comfort of a lounge, featuring cozy seats, lush greenery, and expansive views of the Midtown skyline. Whether you seek a lively night out or a relaxing afternoon with good conversation, Drawbar's vibe caters to all moods, making your meetups both memorable and effortless. Its casual yet refined atmosphere encourages socializing over craft cocktails and shared dishes, which naturally brings groups closer. The ease of access with valet and ample parking also removes common logistical hassles, allowing the focus to remain on spending quality time together. Simply put, Drawbar is designed to be a welcoming and vibrant space where friends can unwind, celebrate, and create lasting experiences.
What activities and amenities make Drawbar perfect for group meetups? One of Drawbar's standout features is its versatile seating arrangements, ideal for both small and large groups. Plush lounge furniture and sofas offer comfortable spots to gather, chat, and relax without feeling cramped, while the long bar provides an energetic setting for those who enjoy mingling or casual bar seating. The outdoor terrace adds a refreshing element, blending flora-filled decor with picturesque city views, making it a brilliant backdrop for photos or sunset watching with friends. The menu, curated by Executive Chef Christina Wai, leans heavily on shared plates which encourages communal dining—a great way to bond over food. With just 14 dishes, the selection is manageable but features unique flavors like miso-glazed salmon and signature sauces such as Fat Kid sauce—a creative twist on classic condiments. This menu format invites group interaction, as everyone can sample multiple items without commitment to a single entrée, making it more social and dynamic.
How does Drawbar’s location enhance your group experience? Situated at Howell Mill Road and 14th Street in the heart of West Midtown, Drawbar benefits from its strategic location within the new and trendy Bellyard Hotel. This mixed-use property brings an urban energy that appeals to locals and visitors alike, ensuring your group will be in a lively and stylish environment. Being part of a hotel adds a layer of convenience for out-of-town friends who might be staying nearby or for those who prefer a one-stop destination for parking, dining, and nightlife. The rooftop setting elevates the experience with panoramic cityscapes, giving your meetup a unique vibe that typical ground-level bars can rarely match. Plus, its proximity to other West Midtown attractions means your gathering can easily extend into other entertainment or dining venues, making it a great kickoff or wrap-up location for more extensive plans.
What food and beverage options will please your group at Drawbar? Drawbar is known for its approachable yet inventive menu that reflects a casual Southern culinary influence. The variety focuses on shared tapas-style dishes that foster a communal dining experience; for instance, orders of fries come with specialty black garlic aioli and the distinctive Fat Kid sauce that provides both familiarity and a fun twist. For main plates, choices like miso-glazed salmon paired with sautéed vegetables cater to those looking for a lighter yet flavorful option, while other dishes balance snacky and hearty to accommodate diverse appetites. The drink menu complements the food perfectly, offering an impressive wine list and craft cocktails designed to suit a wide array of tastes—from classic favorites to inventive mixes—ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable. Happy hour specials add an incentive for groups to arrive early and enjoy premium drinks at great prices in a relaxed setting.
What makes Drawbar’s atmosphere uniquely suited for socializing? The atmosphere at Drawbar strikes an effective balance between sophistication and casual comfort. Its modern, expansive décor includes soft lighting, abundant greenery, and stylish furniture designed to encourage relaxation and conversation. Whether your group prefers intimate corners for deep talks or open areas to celebrate special occasions, the layout caters well to different social dynamics. The outdoor terrace enhances the ambiance by offering fresh air and nighttime views that foster a laid-back yet vibrant feel. Guests frequently mention the "great vibe," which is a testament to the welcoming staff and the energetic yet unpretentious environment found here. The setting naturally invites lingering, turning a quick meet-up into an enjoyable, multi-hour event.
How convenient is Drawbar for group visits? Drawbar excels in convenience, particularly for larger groups who appreciate smooth logistics. Valet parking is readily available at the hotel entrance, alleviating the stress of finding a spot in a busy neighborhood. For those who prefer to self-park, the Bellyard Hotel offers a secure parking garage with support for the Park Mobile app, allowing hassle-free access. The venue also accepts credit and debit cards, facilitating easy payments for individuals and tabs alike. As Drawbar accepts reservations, groups can plan in advance to ensure seating arrangements fit their needs, avoiding long waits. Varied operating hours accommodate different meetup times—from early brunches to late-night drinks—making scheduling flexible.
Can Drawbar host different types of gatherings? Absolutely. Drawbar’s versatile environment makes it suitable for a variety of group occasions. Whether you’re planning a casual catch-up, a celebratory party, a family brunch, or a professional social mixer, the venue adapts well. The shared plate menu encourages interaction for casual gatherings, while the cocktail and wine selections elevate the experience for more formal or festive events. The scenic rooftop and chic lounge spaces lend themselves beautifully to photo ops and create a special ambiance for milestone celebrations. Plus, the attentive staff is experienced in accommodating groups of various sizes and requests, ensuring each event feels personalized and well-executed.
Why do visitors keep coming back to Drawbar? Consistent positive reviews point to Drawbar’s reliable formula of great ambiance, tasty food, excellent drinks, and friendly service. Many guests remark on the atmosphere as a primary draw—calling it a “great spot to enjoy drinks on any given night.” This dependable vibe makes it a favored neighborhood hangout and a place visitors look forward to revisiting. The combination of aesthetically pleasing space, thoughtfully curated menu, and prime location creates a sense of familiarity with an upscale edge. Whether locals or tourists, many return to catch the latest views and connect with friends in a setting that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
In summary, Drawbar stands out as an exceptional venue for hosting meetups with friends or family due to its inviting atmosphere, scenic rooftop views, carefully crafted shared menu, and convenient amenities. Its location within the Bellyard Hotel in the vibrant West Midtown neighborhood adds extra appeal for easy access and extended entertainment options. Whether you want to start your night with small plates and cocktails, enjoy a leisurely brunch, or celebrate a special event, Drawbar offers an experience that effortlessly blends comfort, style, and sociability. For groups looking to gather in a place that encourages connection and celebration, Drawbar is a compelling choice.