When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Elephant & Castle
Why Elephant & Castle is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Elephant & Castle is a distinguished restaurant chain that offers an authentic English pub-style experience across select locations in Canada and the United States. Established in 1977, this beloved pub has earned a solid reputation for serving classic British fare such as fish and chips, shepherd's pie, bangers and mash, and more, all crafted with care to evoke traditional flavors. With locations in major cities including Boston, Chicago, Seattle, Toronto, Calgary, Winnipeg, and the nation’s capital Washington, D.C., Elephant & Castle creates a vibrant social atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. The Washington, D.C. location, notably close to landmarks like the White House and National Mall, features the largest patio in downtown D.C., perfect for relaxing and enjoying scenic views while savoring a great selection of beers. Whether visiting for lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks, guests can enjoy lively events including live football and soccer matches, seasonal celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day specials, and a welcoming ambiance that embodies the best of British hospitality. The combination of classic pub fare, a rich social environment, and multiple convenient locations makes Elephant & Castle a great destination to gather with friends and enjoy quality time together.
Here's what people think of Elephant & Castle
As of recent, Elephant & Castle holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2619 reviews.
Elephant & Castle has garnered an overall positive reception with a rating of 4.3 from over 2,600 reviews, indicating general customer satisfaction. Many reviewers praise the restaurant for successfully recreating authentic British pub dishes; highlights often include their crispy and well-prepared fish and chips and the hearty shepherd's pie, which evoke a traditional British dining experience. Positive comments frequently mention the lively and friendly atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and the appealing patio spaces, such as the notable outdoor seating in Washington, D.C. Guests also appreciate the pub’s role as a social hub for watching live sports and celebrating special occasions, underscoring the venue's role as more than just a place to eat. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional inconsistencies in service quality and food preparation across different locations. Some patrons note that prices can be on the higher side relative to other dining options, and a few have experienced wait times during busy hours. Nonetheless, these negatives are outnumbered by praise for the food authenticity and overall ambiance. In conclusion, Elephant & Castle succeeds in delivering a genuine British pub experience paired with a warm, social environment that many customers find enjoyable, making it a popular meeting spot despite occasional service hiccups.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lucas Williams
The food was great and really well prepared. The staff gave some really good recommendations that we ended up loving. The atmosphere was warm and inviting. Overall, a really nice spot to eat.
G E
Overall, it’s a decent place for a drink or a casual hangout, especially with the friendly service and nice vibe. But if you’re going for the food, you might want to look elsewhere. the food was a letdown. It didn’t taste fresh at all, and much of it gave the impression of being reheated from frozen. The texture and flavor just weren’t there, and it lacked the quality you'd hope for in a dine-in experience. It’s disappointing when a meal feels more like something out of a microwave than a kitchen.
Kalina
Can’t comment on the English food but I got the butter chicken and it was incredible for an English pub. Both drinks were reasonably priced and delicious. I also got a tasty cheesecake as well. It was very loud inside to the point I couldn’t hear anything the server was saying but then I was sat outside and that was enjoyable.
Suman Hazra
I went there on a weekend for lunch, and the place was fairly empty. They were huge seating area indoors as well as a fairly large amount of seat outdoors. My first impression looking at how empty the place was maybe that the food wasn’t good, but I was proven wrong. The place has very classic irish and British pub vibe with wooden furniture. They had some soccer matches going on the television above the bar, giving it a bit of a sports bar vibe. The service was prompt. I got the Sunday roast, and it was actually very good. The Yorkshire pudding was light and fluffy. The mashed potatoes were seasoned well. The beans were just meh but I didn’t care much. The beef was thinly slice, but not dry and the gravy had a lot of flavour. Also, it was fairly expensive. I think more people should be visiting this restaurant because the food is pretty good.
Shree Yerramsetti
Located conveniently at the Wabash & Lake Street intersection, The Elephant & Castle Pub offers a charming taste of nostalgia combined with great food and drink. Their pot pies are truly the best in Chicago—comforting, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. If you haven't tried them yet, this is definitely the place to do so! Walking into the pub, you'll be immersed in a cozy, vintage 1950s vibe that adds to the overall experience. The friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to relax with friends or enjoy a casual evening. They also boast a solid selection of ales, catering to both traditional and craft beer enthusiasts. Whether you're craving hearty comfort food or simply looking for a welcoming pub with great ambiance, The Elephant & Castle is a must-visit.
How to reach Elephant & Castle
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Why Elephant & Castle may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Elephant & Castle with your friends? Elephant & Castle offers a unique blend of British pub culture with modern hospitality that makes it an ideal spot for gathering with friends or family. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching up after work, or just looking to unwind, this pub delivers a warm, lively atmosphere perfect for bonding. Known for its welcoming ambiance and well-curated menu featuring classic British fare like fish and chips, alongside a diverse beer selection, it appeals to a broad range of tastes. Its central locations in major cities such as Washington DC, Chicago, and Seattle make it easily accessible for groups. Moreover, the venue offers plenty of space for private gatherings or casual meetups, with options ranging from cozy pub tables to private dining rooms. The combination of hearty food, refreshing drinks, and friendly service encourages guests to relax and enjoy each other’s company, making it a go-to destination when you want to rally your friends in a convivial setting.
What activities are available at Elephant & Castle, and why is it perfect for group meetups? Elephant & Castle caters extensively to social groups with multiple activities and amenities enhancing the group experience. First, the pub atmosphere is lively, fueled by live sports broadcasts, including major football and soccer matches displayed on numerous televisions throughout the venue. This makes the pub a hotspot for sports fans to cheer on their teams together. The food is designed for sharing and indulgence, with classic pub staples and specials that can be customized for group dining or events. Large groups can take advantage of private dining rooms or even book the entire pub for special celebrations, complete with custom menus and buffets, to accommodate any group size. Additionally, many locations offer outdoor seating areas, such as the largest patio in downtown Washington DC, which provides a scenic, relaxed setting ideal for daylight or evening socials. All these features combine to create a flexible, fun environment where groups can mingle, celebrate, and enjoy memorable moments.
Why is Elephant & Castle’s menu well-suited for group gatherings? The menu at Elephant & Castle is broad and inclusive, catering to various dietary preferences, which makes it highly practical for group meetups. Guests can indulge in British classics such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and hearty pies, alongside a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options ensuring everyone in the group finds something delicious. The menu is thoughtfully curated to encourage sharing, making it easier for groups to order multiple dishes to try. In addition to its food variety, the pub boasts an extensive bar with a wide selection of beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails, including seasonal specials on drinks, enhancing the social dining experience. The focus on comfort foods paired with beverages creates a laid-back, enjoyable vibe that encourages guests to stay longer and savor their time together. Moreover, many locations provide happy hour specials and all-day food and drink promotions during events, which further enhance the group dining experience by offering great value.
How does the atmosphere at Elephant & Castle enhance the group experience? Elephant & Castle prides itself on delivering a warm, inviting atmosphere that fosters good conversation and camaraderie. The décor typically embraces a classic British pub aesthetic with cozy lighting and large communal tables that encourage interaction among guests. Coupled with friendly and attentive staff, the environment feels both casual and vibrant, perfect for groups looking to relax and enjoy each other’s company. The venues are always bustling with energy, especially during major sporting events, as fans unite to watch games live, amplifying the sense of community. Many locations feature spacious layouts with private rooms or sections that groups can reserve for an exclusive experience. Outdoor patios, available in some locations such as Washington DC, offer a refreshing alternative for daytime gatherings or warm-weather meetups, providing scenic urban views that elevate the overall experience. This versatile setting ensures groups of all sizes and preferences feel comfortable and engaged.
What event hosting options make Elephant & Castle an excellent choice for large group celebrations? Elephant & Castle is well-equipped to handle group events of varying sizes, from intimate gatherings with close friends to large parties or corporate meetups. The pub offers private dining rooms that provide a more secluded and personalized space for groups wanting to celebrate with some privacy. For bigger events, guests have the option to book the entire pub, allowing for tailored menus, buffet options, and dedicated event staff to ensure smooth service. This flexibility is ideal for birthdays, work outings, or holiday parties where customization matters. The venue’s longstanding reputation for British hospitality means hosts and guests can expect attentive service and detailed planning support. Special events like St. Patrick’s Day celebrations highlight the pub’s ability to create festive environments with themed food and drink specials that excite groups and encourage participation. By offering a range of hosting options combined with great food, drinks, and atmosphere, Elephant & Castle positions itself as an outstanding venue choice for any group occasion.