When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Frita Batidos Ann Arbor
Why Frita Batidos Ann Arbor is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Frita Batidos in downtown Ann Arbor is a vibrant fast casual restaurant that masterfully blends Cuban and American culinary traditions to create a unique and flavorful dining experience. It's widely renowned for its signature Cuban-style burgers named "Fritas," featuring spicy chorizo topped with shoestring fries in a soft egg bun, paired perfectly with tropical "Batidos"—fresh fruit milkshakes that may include or exclude rum. The restaurant has cultivated a fun and lively atmosphere reminiscent of Cuban street food culture, making it an inviting place for friends to meet up and enjoy a casual meal together. Its location on West Washington Street is convenient and accessible, catering to lunch, dinner, and late-night crowds.
With a commitment to sourcing high-quality local ingredients such as Michigan or Midwest meats, cheeses, and produce, Frita Batidos also offers Halal-certified chicken and beef, and accommodates gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets. Highlights include their seasonally-changing menu, the award-winning burgers recognized by both Metro Times and Michigan Daily readers, and expertly crafted cocktails like the spicy margarita. The mix of authentic flavors, creative twists, and a lively but laid-back ambiance make it a top choice for casual outings with friends in Ann Arbor.
Here's what people think of Frita Batidos Ann Arbor
As of recent, Frita Batidos Ann Arbor holds a 4.7-star rating based on 5353 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly praise Frita Batidos for its delicious Cuban-inspired food, especially highlighting the perfectly spiced frita burgers and the tropical batidos, with special mention of standout items like the chocolate milkshake with cinnamon and the spicy margarita cocktail. Many reviewers appreciate the perfect balance between the bold flavors and quality ingredients sourced locally. The restaurant’s casual, fun vibe and attentive service are often cited as reasons why it's an excellent spot for social gatherings and casual dining.
Positive reviews frequently mention the consistently great taste, the unique fusion of Cuban and American flavors, and the comfortable atmosphere that appeals to a variety of diners including those looking for vegan or gluten-free options. Customers also enjoy the attention to detail in ingredient sourcing and the seasonal menu innovations, praising the overall quality and creativity.
On the other hand, a few negative reviews point to issues with delivery times, particularly with third-party services like Grubhub, where food sometimes arrived cold or soggy after long waits. Some customers experienced sporadic service delays during busy periods but generally found the in-house dining experience much better.
Overall, the review consensus shows Frita Batidos as a cherished local favorite that delivers flavorful, creative Cuban-American fare within a welcoming environment, with minor hiccups mostly related to delivery rather than the food or service quality on site.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Chitra Solomon
Very youthful crowd. Long line. But they manage the crowd’s orders well. Cuban fusion cuisine food. 👍 Reasonably priced. Good quality ingredients Reasonable portions. Milkshakes are good Not like the usual flavors that we are used to. 👍 Crisped plantain chips were very good. Loaded plantain were filling Large portion Fish and chicken burgers were flavorful. French fries could have been served on the side, instead of a topping on the burgers. Conch fritters tasted good Fresh ginger and lime juice was a new flavor for me. Almost like an Ayurveda based drink. 👌 My husband liked their sangria drink Churros looked different and so huge. It was like a meal by itself. Restroom cleanliness was so so
Elisa Ramon
Great food! After reading all the good reviews we decided to try Frita Batidos and it was a great experience. The food is good with several options. The service was fast and they have a good selection of beers and drinks. They also have a few table outside. Absolutely recommend if you are in town!
M. Raza
we ordered fish and black bean fritas, Coconut cream Batido, and garlic-cilantro fries. The restaurant was very busy on the Friday eve the fries were served cold and not fresh. We loved the burgers, but they could’ve been better. Fries were soaked in oil! they loved coconut cream Batido!
Kambria
The is a very popular fast past restaurant. The rice here is amazing and the food is flavorful with a slight kick but nothing too crazy if you don’t do spicy like myself. The plantain chips are addictive and so are their fries if you love garlic. The cilantro mayo gives me life! The first visit could be a bit intimidating if it’s a line out the door like my first visit. The means has so many options and it’s hard to really get details on what to order when it’s so busy. So I would say study the menu ahead of time and write your questions down 😂 no but seriously a must try if in the area. Will definitely come again to try a different dish.
Dawn Paton
Community concept of sharing picnic tables! GREAT burgers and drinks! The Hibiscus lemonade was so good if you like tart. The Ginger lemonade was super potent, my husband LOVED it! We shared a churro and could only eat half. The small loaded plantains were way too much food but I wanted to at least try it. Could be a meal all alone.
How to reach Frita Batidos Ann Arbor
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Why Frita Batidos Ann Arbor may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Frita Batidos Ann Arbor with your friends? If you're looking for a gathering spot that combines vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and an inviting communal vibe, Frita Batidos in Ann Arbor is an unbeatable choice. The restaurant’s Cuban-American fusion cuisine offers a unique taste experience that stands out from typical meetup venues. Imagine sharing plates of flavorful fritas—a Cuban-style burger topped with shoestring fries and a tangy sauce—paired with tropical batidos, which are refreshing milkshakes bursting with exotic flavors like passion fruit or chocolate with cinnamon. The menu’s customizable options ensure everyone in your group can find something to excite their palate, whether you prefer beef, chorizo, or vegetarian options. Beyond the food, Frita Batidos exudes a lively, colorful atmosphere with its bright décor and communal picnic-style tables that encourage conversation and connection. Plus, the restaurant holds a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 5,300 reviews, illustrating its popularity and consistent quality. Whether you're celebrating a casual get-together or a special occasion, Frita Batidos provides a perfect blend of taste, ambiance, and warmth that makes gathering with friends memorable, fun, and utterly delicious.
What activities and experiences does Frita Batidos offer that make it perfect for social meetups? The atmosphere at Frita Batidos is designed to foster connection and enjoyment, making it ideal for groups. Seating typically consists of large picnic-style tables, which are perfectly suited for sharing meals and stories alike. The casual setting means you can mingle freely, share dishes, and discover new flavors together without a formal or stuffy vibe. This communal seating encourages spontaneous conversations and adds to the sense of camaraderie. Additionally, the vibrant, brightly painted space is visually stimulating and uplifting, perfect for selfies or group photos to remember the occasion. Ordering is simple and efficient—order at the counter and find your group a spot to settle, making arrival and departure easy for busy friend groups. Beyond dining, Frita Batidos offers a chance to enjoy a culinary experience that’s a bit adventurous—exploring Cuban-inspired dishes, tropical batidos, and unique desserts like their beloved churros can spark lively discussions and bonding moments. For groups looking to combine delicious food with a lively, informal atmosphere, Frita Batidos is a great venue that delivers both comfort and excitement.
Why is Frita Batidos’ menu especially well suited for group dining? The menu’s standout feature is the Cuban-inspired frita—a creative take on the classic burger, layered with shoestring fries and a spicy, flavorful sauce. This signature dish is customizable, allowing each person in your group to build their frita “loco” style with various toppings to suit their tastes—that flexibility means picky eaters and food enthusiasts alike can dine happily together. Alongside fritas, the menu features other crowd-pleasers like garlic-cilantro fries, twice-fried ripe plantains tossed in cilantro-garlic butter, and tropical salads that make perfect sides or shared plates. Beverage options are just as engaging, with batidos that offer a tropical twist on traditional milkshakes, such as passion fruit or chocolate Español with cinnamon. This variety encourages a lively tasting experience, with each person able to try something different and compare notes. For dessert, the churros are outstanding and a great way to round off a shared meal. Whether your gathering prefers heavier dishes or lighter fare, Frita Batidos’ menu appeals with tasty, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors that keep conversations as flavorful as the food.
What makes the location and environment of Frita Batidos ideal for group meetups or celebrations? Located in downtown Ann Arbor, Frita Batidos is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike, especially groups coming together from different parts of the city. Its neighborhood vibe pairs the convenience of a casual counter-service joint with the warmth of a welcoming community hub. The interior’s bright and lively décor provides an uplifting backdrop that energizes any gathering. The picnic-style seating encourages sociability, perfect for groups who want an interactive and relaxed eating experience rather than isolated booths or formal restaurant setups. This communal style seating also makes it an excellent spot for meetups where sharing dishes and drinks enhances the group dynamic. Additionally, the venue's informal nature means it’s suitable for a range of events, from weekend lunches to casual evening hangouts, and even small celebrations. Happy hour specials, such as beef frita and fries offered at a discounted price during certain hours, add budget-friendly options for groups wanting to enjoy excellent food without overspending. Overall, the setting combines ease, comfort, and energy to make meetings with friends or family feel effortless and enjoyable.
How does the quality and reputation of Frita Batidos contribute to its appeal as a meetup destination? With a 4.7-star rating and thousands of glowing reviews, Frita Batidos has earned a reputation as one of Ann Arbor’s must-visit eateries. Customers frequently praise the consistently flavorful food, friendly and efficient service, and the atmosphere’s ability to draw a welcoming crowd of students, locals, and families. The high rating reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality—from the slow-cooked, 48-hour marinated pulled pork to the perfectly seasoned chorizo burger and the crispy garlic-cilantro fries, patrons are treated to bold, authentic flavors made with great care. Positive feedback about the tropical batidos and desserts demonstrates an attention to detail that delights every sense. This enduring popularity means that when you bring your group to Frita Batidos, you can be confident that everyone will enjoy a memorable meal. It also means the restaurant is a reliable spot for social gatherings, with a lively buzz that adds to the excitement of meeting with friends, making each visit feel like a special event.
What other reasons make Frita Batidos a standout venue for your next group outing? Beyond the food and atmosphere, the restaurant’s inclusive and casual nature means that groups don’t have to worry about dress codes or lengthy wait times. Even during busy periods, the ordering system and spacious seating reduce stress, so your event flows smoothly. The restaurant’s focus on Cuban-American fusion cuisine offers a fresh alternative to standard group dining options, giving your meetup a unique flavor twist. Its combination of savory, spicy, and sweet menu items appeals to a broad range of tastes, facilitating easy conversations about food preferences and encouraging everyone to try something new. Whether your gathering includes foodies eager for authentic Cuban flavors or simply friends and family looking for a lively, delicious dinner spot, Frita Batidos fits the bill perfectly. Hosting your meetup here means stepping into a vibrant space where culture, flavor, and friendship meet in every bite and conversation.