When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House
Why Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House is a beloved neighborhood spot located in Dallas, Texas, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and excellent selection of craft beers and delicious burgers. Established in 2011, Goodfriend has built its reputation around "bombproof" beers, mouthwatering burgers, and a welcoming beer garden setting that invites friends to gather and enjoy a casual yet lively dining experience. The venue features a diverse beer selection including drafts, bottles, and craft brews, appealing to various tastes. Their menu extends beyond burgers, offering tasty starters like smoked pork nachos, chicken wings with house-made sauces, fried pickles, and other bar favorites, with some gluten-free options available. The outdoor seating area enhances the beer garden vibe, making it a great place to hang out during warm evenings or weekends. Friendly and attentive service adds to the overall enjoyable experience. With a full bar and table service, Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House caters to those seeking a great place to relax with friends, enjoy good food and drinks, and soak in a casual, fun atmosphere in East Dallas’s Lakewood area.
Here's what people think of Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House
As of recent, Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1630 reviews.
Reviews for Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House are overwhelmingly positive, reflected by its high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 1,600 reviews. Many patrons praise the restaurant for its lively and fun ambiance, describing it as a fantastic spot to meet up with friends and enjoy a cold beer. The craft beer selection receives consistent compliments, as does the quality and flavor of the burgers, often called "fantastic" and a menu highlight. Customers specifically note the friendly and efficient service staff, which helps maintain a welcoming environment despite the restaurant’s popularity and sometimes loud atmosphere. Positive mentions include the diverse menu that caters well to burger lovers and bar food enthusiasts alike, with great side options and drinks. On the other hand, some negative reviews highlight the noise level, which can be quite high and might not suit those looking for a quiet dining experience. A few guests have mentioned the busy nature of the venue, occasionally impacting wait times or table availability. Nonetheless, these drawbacks appear minor against the majority of praise, and the restaurant’s atmosphere, food quality, and drink selection tend to win people over. Overall, the reviews suggest Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House is a highly recommended spot for casual dining and socializing in Dallas.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jaime Calderon
The place is good, the food is better. The only thing I did not like much is that the taste of the food was predominantly cumin. I like that flavor, but not too much. The hamburger (Whatafriend) is a very delicious product. And the fries also were so good. The desserts were fabulous. When you search them on Google map, the maps app send you in front (in the other side). So just caution with it.
Jordyn Barat
Burgers were amazing! We got the good friend and bordain and they were both tasty and perfectly cooked. We also ordered fried pickles and waffle fries, which we both agreed were over fried but still good. Beers were great! Dedicated recommend trying the scenic route.
Michelle lenz
Delicious food and tap menu is long. We love a good beer and burger and sweet potato waffle fry! The fries came out HOT and the beer comes cold :) Amazing service as well.
P Li
Tried this place for the first time. One take away from the experience. SALT. The fried pickles were good at first, halfway through I just tasted salt. I got fries with my burger and the fries were salty. I cannot recall the burger I tried but it was spicy with ghost sauce and it was great. Did not disappoint with the heat. My partner got the patty melt and gave it a 3 out of 5. I tried a bite and did agree because the meat was dry. Fries with the patty melt also salty. Hoping to try some more things and see if it's worth an edit/update. I have not been back, not sure I will be. I tried Rodeo Goat down the road in the Casa Linda Plaza and I have not cared to come back. I am willing to come back if people would like an update. If this review gets three reactions/likes, I'll come back and give it another shot. In the meantime I will be at Rodeo.
Chelsey Charbeneau
Wow wow wow! Our new favorite spot. As a vegetarian in Dallas there aren’t a lot of options but this place has it ALL. We went yesterday for the first time and it was so good we went back again today. They have vegan chili, Mac and cheese balls, vegan burgers, and the best grilled cheese with truffle oil. The prices are responsible, the atmosphere's is chill and they have the perfect set up for games. There’s also a really big patio that is dog friendly. Staff is great and very attentive. Everyone is nice and it’s just such a great hidden gem! Thank you all. We love your spot.
How to reach Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House
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Why Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House with your friends?
When it comes to finding the perfect spot to gather with friends, Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House stands out as a top choice in Dallas. The combination of a welcoming atmosphere, excellent food, and a rich selection of craft beers makes it an ideal destination for socializing and celebration. Whether you're catching up after work or hosting a casual weekend meetup, this venue provides a space where conversation flows as freely as the drinks. Its 4.6-star rating with over 1,600 reviews reflects a strong community appreciation for the quality and vibe that Goodfriend offers. The outdoor beer garden, featuring a charming cedar pergola, offers a relaxed and spacious environment perfect for large groups to mingle comfortably while enjoying fresh air and the lively ambiance. Inside, the sleek, modern interior complements the outdoor area, lending versatility whether you prefer the buzz of a lively bar or a quieter corner for deeper talks. This blend of settings along with attentive service aligns well with a diverse group’s needs, making Goodfriend another’s great choice for memorable social gatherings filled with flavorful burgers and refreshing beers.
What activities and features make Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House perfect for group meetups?
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House excels at offering a variety of activities and features tailored for group enjoyment. The star attraction is definitely their extensive beer selection, which caters to all kinds of beer enthusiasts — from those who prefer robust IPAs to fans of lighter lagers and experimental craft brews. On any visit, groups can enjoy sampling various drafts, creating a shared experience and sparking conversations about flavors and preferences. Accompanying the drinks is their highly praised menu focusing on juicy, well-crafted burgers, including unique creations like chipotle butter-topped burgers that offer depth in taste. Complementing the main dishes are popular appetizers such as waffle cheese fries and fried avocado with pimento cheese and bacon, perfect for sharing. This communal style of eating encourages group bonding and lets everyone sample different tastes. The outdoor beer garden not only adds a scenic and lively backdrop but also provides ample seating for groups large or small, making it an ideal venue for celebrations, casual hangouts, or even informal business meetups. Additionally, all-day happy hour specials on certain days add excellent value for groups looking to extend their time together without stretching budgets.
How does the atmosphere at Goodfriend accommodate different group dynamics?
The atmosphere at Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House is versatile and accommodating, designed to suit varied group sizes and dynamics. For those who enjoy the vibrancy of a social hub, the outdoor beer garden area offers a casual, open-air environment where friends can gather informally and enjoy music, conversation, and craft beverages under a beautiful cedar pergola. This space lends itself well to spontaneous meetups or more festive gatherings, enabling groups to spread out comfortably. Inside, the ambiance is more refined yet casual, with a sleek design that appeals to those who seek a little more intimacy without losing the lively feel intrinsic to a great neighborhood bar. Whether your group prefers lounging outdoors in warm weather or relaxing inside in air-conditioned comfort, Goodfriend successfully balances these preferences. This variety helps the venue to handle a broad spectrum of social occasions, from large birthday parties to simple after-work drinks. Furthermore, the staff’s friendly and accommodating service ensures groups feel welcomed and looked after, which is crucial for a stress-free gathering. For groups that emphasize quality time without interruption, the combination of well-thought-out seating arrangements and attentive service makes Goodfriend a reliable choice.
Why is the food at Goodfriend so highly recommended for group events?
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House offers food that perfectly complements its social atmosphere and is widely appreciated by guests for both quality and shareability. The menu, centered around a variety of burgers crafted with fresh ingredients and bold flavors, caters well to diverse tastes and dietary preferences within a group. Standout items such as the chipotle butter burger, known for its rich and spicy flavor, are often mentioned by patrons as especially memorable. In addition to burgers, crowd-pleasing starters like fried pickles, waffle cheese fries, and fried avocado with pimento cheese and bacon present delicious, easy-to-share options that create a convivial dining experience conducive to group interaction. The ability to order multiple sharable dishes encourages everyone to taste and chat about the food, adding a layer of engagement to the meetup. Despite some reports of occasional service delays during busy times, many reviews highlight that the overall flavor quality and generous portions make the wait worthwhile. These food choices are designed not only to satisfy hunger but to act as a social glue that enhances the fun and relaxed vibe Goodfriend is known for.
What makes Goodfriend’s beer selection a unique highlight for group gatherings?
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House's beer selection is a standout feature that greatly enhances its appeal as a gathering spot. Boasting a carefully curated roster of draft beers, the venue offers an excellent range of styles from classic favorites to unique craft brews sourced from local and regional breweries. This diversity supports a communal tasting experience that is perfect for groups with eclectic tastes or those eager to explore new flavors together. The beer garden setting naturally encourages sampling and sharing, fostering a sense of discovery and lively discussion around the beer menu. The ongoing happy hour promotions and specials on certain days provide great opportunities for groups to indulge without overspending, making extended visits more feasible. The knowledgeable staff often help guide guests through the beer list, recommending options that pair well with the menu or match individual preferences, adding a personalized touch to each visit. By combining quality, variety, and service, Goodfriend’s beer selection serves as a focal point for social connection and enjoyment during group outings.
How accessible and convenient is Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House for group meetups?
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House is situated in a location that is both accessible and convenient, enhancing its suitability for group meetups. Located in Dallas, the venue is reachable by car with ample parking available, easing logistics for friends coming from different parts of the city. The layout of the beer garden and indoor areas allows for flexibility in accommodating groups of various sizes without feeling cramped or overlooked. This spatial convenience is critical for ensuring that social gatherings flow seamlessly, with enough room for comfortable seating and movement. Additionally, its casual vibe means dress codes are relaxed, further simplifying planning for groups who prefer a low-fuss environment. The availability of all-day happy hour on select days encourages groups to pick times that best match their social rhythms and budgets, while the combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers alternatives depending on weather and personal preference. This blend of physical and operational accessibility makes Goodfriend a go-to choice for casual group events ranging from lunch meetups to evening celebrations.
What kind of vibes and community feeling does Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House foster?
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House fosters an inviting and friendly community atmosphere that resonates strongly with patrons who return often. The blend of a relaxed beer garden setting and a welcoming indoor bar cultivates an environment where people feel comfortable gathering to unwind, chat, and share good times. Many reviewers highlight the venue’s ability to balance laid-back vibes with a sense of energy, making it appealing for both casual and slightly livelier social occasions. The staff contribute significantly to this vibe by providing attentive and personable service, helping guests feel like valued regulars rather than just customers. The space also attracts a diverse crowd, from local neighbors to visitors, which adds to the rich social tapestry felt on any given day. This community-oriented feeling transforms Goodfriend from merely a place to eat and drink into a neighborhood hub where friendships and memories are made. For friend groups, this atmosphere enhances the pleasure of coming together, making each visit feel like a shared event that stands apart from ordinary outings.
How does Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House compare to other meetup venues in Dallas?
Compared to other meetup venues in Dallas, Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House distinguishes itself through its unique combination of offerings. While many places may focus either on food or drinks, Goodfriend balances both with great success, earning it high marks for burgers and beer alike. The beer garden setting with a cedar pergola is a standout feature that not all competitors can match, providing an authentic outdoor bar experience that enhances social interactions. Additionally, the venue’s emphasis on craft beers and a robust happy hour program shows a clear understanding of what modern groups seek in a hangout spot. Its casual yet polished interior design also caters well to groups seeking comfort without sacrificing style. While some other Dallas spots might offer more upscale dining or entertainment options like live music or games, Goodfriend’s strength lies in its straightforward, dependable hospitality and quality food and drink focus, which appeals widely. For groups looking for a proven, comfortable, and crowd-pleasing locale with great burgers and beer, Goodfriend remains a favorite and reliable choice.
What tips can help maximize your experience when hosting a meetup at Goodfriend?
To make the most of your group meetup at Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House, consider these practical tips. First, plan your visit during less busy hours or reserve seating if possible, to avoid potential service delays during peak times, ensuring a smooth experience. Take advantage of the happy hour specials to stretch your budget, particularly for larger groups planning to stay a while. Encourage sharing of appetizers like fried pickles and waffle cheese fries to keep the table lively and engage everyone around the food. Exploring the beer selection together can also add a fun, interactive element to your gathering; ask staff for recommendations that pair with your food choices. Finally, embrace the outdoor seating when weather permits, as the beer garden setting adds a memorable ambiance that boosts the social spirit. By keeping these points in mind, you can ensure that your time at Goodfriend is enjoyable, relaxed, and full of good conversation and shared moments.
Goodfriend Beer Garden & Burger House offers a genuine community experience wrapped around quality food, craft beer, and great company — making it a go-to venue for memorable friend and family gatherings in Dallas.