When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Highland Tap
Why Highland Tap is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in the heart of Atlanta, Highland Tap stands out as a premier destination for those seeking an exceptional steakhouse and bar ambiance. The restaurant blends a casual yet lively atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings, celebrations, and laid-back dinners with friends. Known for its succulent prime steaks, including the highly regarded Tap Oscar — tenderloin medallions topped with lump crab meat and served over creamy mashed potatoes — Highland Tap delivers consistently satisfying fare. Beyond steaks, the menu offers diverse choices such as Bourbon Bacon BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, hand-pattied burgers, and vegetarian options, showcasing culinary versatility. Patrons rave about the skillfully crafted cocktails, especially the signature dirty martinis and lemon drops, which complement the food beautifully. The restaurant also boasts a full bar with attentive service, often praised for its professionalism and friendliness. Outdoor seating adds to the venue’s appeal, providing a pleasant environment for both daytime and evening meetups. Though parking can be challenging in the bustling neighborhood, many recommend ride-sharing options to enhance convenience. This blend of quality food, excellent drinks, and a welcoming, energetic setting makes Highland Tap a favored spot for both locals and visitors looking to unwind and enjoy memorable moments together.
Here's what people think of Highland Tap
As of recent, Highland Tap holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1278 reviews.
Highland Tap enjoys a strong reputation among its patrons, reflected in a solid 4.5 rating based on over 1,200 reviews. Many reviewers highlight the consistently excellent food and attentive service. Positive feedback emphasizes the perfectly cooked steaks, with particular acclaim for the Tap Oscar and prime rib dishes, described as tender and flavorful. Customers appreciate the variety of options available, including standout appetizers like the shrimp cocktail, oysters Rockefeller, and warm cheese dips served with toasted crackers. The bar experience receives high marks, especially praises for the potent, well-balanced lemon drops and dirty martinis that come generously portioned with extra brine. Friendly, professional staff members, often named individually, enhance the dining experience, making guests feel well cared for. The atmosphere, described as casual yet upscale with a lively buzz, is praised for fostering conviviality and comfort. However, some negative reviews point to the restaurant sometimes being noisy and crowded, which can make conversation challenging. Additionally, parking limitations in the busy neighborhood are a noted inconvenience, prompting suggestions to use Uber or other ride services. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many customers returning repeatedly because of the reliable food quality, drinks, and service. Highland Tap successfully balances a vibrant social setting with consistently high standards, confirming its status as a beloved Atlanta institution.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alex George
Celebrated my birthday here in December and we had such a great time! It was a group of 8 of us and even though we had to wait until we were all there to be seated, it was a great experience. We had our own little private room in the back and they treated us very well. Excited to go back to drink more dirty martinis and bread!
Charlie Baker
We loved everything we ordered. The staff was so attentive & fun to chat with. This was our first time, but it won’t be our last!
Joshua Neely
Always a great time. Laid-back feel, great food. Their entrees are always tasty, and we absolutely love their burgers and onion rings- true steakhouse style!
Lauren
Went here for the first time last night and was very impressed. Steak was great and perfectly cooked. Waitress was kind and helpful. Prices were fair and more affordable than similar restaurants. Has a cozy and classic ambiance. Great date night spot. Will definitely return!
Cassandra
Never order a steak to-go here, my NY strip was dry and tough. It looks like a freaking plastic toy steak you’d see in a child kitchen play set. Wasted $40.
How to reach Highland Tap
None
Website: None
Why Highland Tap may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Highland Tap with your friends? Because this iconic Atlanta spot combines a lively atmosphere, exceptional food, and a convivial spirit that is perfect for group gatherings. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or celebrating a special occasion with family, Highland Tap offers an inviting space that feels both energetic and comfortable. Its reputation as a neighborhood institution speaks to its consistent quality and charm. From its renowned steaks to its famously large and strong dirty martinis, Highland Tap strikes the ideal balance between casual comfort and culinary excellence. The bustling environment fosters easy conversation and laughter, encouraging everyone to let loose and enjoy the moment. Its location on North Highland Avenue places it in the heart of vibrant Atlanta neighborhoods, making it an accessible meetup spot. Plus, the attentive, friendly service ensures groups feel welcome and well cared for. All these elements make Highland Tap not just a restaurant, but a destination where memorable moments with friends and family naturally happen.
What activities make Highland Tap perfect for group meetups?
Highland Tap thrives as a social hotspot, providing an array of activities and experiences that appeal to groups looking to unwind and connect. First and foremost, the dining experience itself is a communal joy. The menu boasts hearty portions of highly praised steak dishes, including the signature Tap Oscar—tenderloin medallions topped with lump crab meat and served with buttery béarnaise sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. This dish alone can be a centerpiece for group sharing and conversation. Beyond dinner, the bar area is a major draw. Their dirty martinis are practically legendary, served with an extra decanter of brine to enhance each sip, making drinks a fun and interactive experience to enjoy with others. The atmosphere encourages mingling and laughter, even though it can get lively and noisy, adding to the festive energy.
Another activity that groups relish at Highland Tap is sharing starters like the warm, cheesy dip served with crunchy toasted rounds. It’s a delicious and social way to start the evening while waiting for main courses. The food’s quality and price reflect remarkable value, so groups never feel like they’re skimping on satisfaction. The restaurant also caters well to different dietary needs, including gluten-free options, which means everyone in your party can dine comfortably. Additionally, the lively soundtrack and warm lighting create a welcoming vibe that naturally keeps groups engaged through the night. This combination of great food, drinks, and a buzzing social scene makes Highland Tap an ideal venue where friends and families can bond over shared plates, clinking glasses, and good times.
How does Highland Tap’s environment enhance group experiences?
The physical and social environment at Highland Tap is finely tuned to encourage group enjoyment. Located downstairs with an entrance via steps, it offers a classic “steak cellar” feel that evokes a sense of exclusivity and tradition. The space fills with the hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses, creating a lively backdrop that energizes gatherings. The clientele is diverse, ranging from locals coming after work to celebrants dressing casually without heels—an unspoken nod to the relaxed vibe. This mix results in a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at ease to let their guard down. Service is another standout aspect that enhances group experiences. The staff is known for being professional, attentive, and friendly, managing to handle large parties smoothly with care.
The restaurant’s noise level, while sometimes high, adds to the overall vibe rather than detracts. It invites groups to raise their voices in laughter and storytelling without self-consciousness. Intimate conversations can still take place at your own table, while the ambient bustle reminds you that you’re part of a vibrant social scene. Moreover, the layout facilitates lively interaction without overwhelming the space. For those who prefer quieter moments, there are spots within the restaurant that feel more secluded yet still part of the energetic whole. This balance between conviviality and intimacy supports group dynamics, whether your meetup is casual or celebratory. The fact that Highland Tap has been a staple in Atlanta for years further reinforces its reputation as a dependable venue for groups to create shared memories.
What food and drink options stand out for group enjoyment?
Highland Tap’s food and drink menu is built to satisfy a wide range of tastes while delivering standout dishes that become instant favorites in groups. The steaks are the undisputed stars, with juicy, tender cuts that come in generous portions. The “Tap Oscar” is particularly acclaimed, a luxurious offering featuring tenderloin medallions accompanied by succulent lump crab meat and a rich béarnaise sauce, all resting on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes. This dish combines surf and turf elements that appeal to both seafood and beef lovers within a group setting. The steak and other beef selections are consistently praised for their quality, portion size, and flavor, often mentioned as a highlight of the dining experience.
Beyond the main courses, the starters contribute to a communal vibe. For example, the warm cheesy dip served with crunchy house-made toasted rounds provides a great finger food option that everyone can share while chatting and waiting for the main meal. This warm, savory appetizer also nicely complements the bar’s drink offerings. Speaking of which, Highland Tap’s cocktail menu is a major part of its charm. The dirty martinis come fully loaded with olives and an extra decanter of brine, ensuring drinks are not only strong but also social and interactive. Cocktails here are not merely drinks but part of the Highland Tap ritual, perfectly paired with the hearty fare and the restaurant’s lived-in, upbeat ambiance. The menu’s attention to gluten-free and other dietary accommodations also means groups with diverse preferences can all find something enjoyable on the table.
Does Highland Tap offer an atmosphere suitable for all types of groups?
Yes, Highland Tap is versatile enough to accommodate a broad variety of groups, from casual friend meetups to family celebrations or even small work gatherings. The restaurant’s casual yet polished vibe means dress codes are relaxed, helping everyone feel comfortable, whether dressed down or a bit more upmarket. The venue's layout supports various group sizes, with enough seating options for intimate gatherings or larger parties seeking to celebrate together in a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a venue that welcomes diversity in its clientele, reflecting a mix of ages and backgrounds, which enriches the overall atmosphere.
Importantly, the restaurant staff actively supports group needs, providing attentive service that makes organizing and enjoying a large meetup hassle-free. Whether it's recommending dishes suited to the collective taste or offering prompt drink refills, they help smooth the flow of any group’s experience. The location itself, nestled on a bustling street in Atlanta, gives groups the added benefit of being close to other entertainment options if plans extend before or after dining. The energetic environment might be louder than some restaurants, but that often enhances the energy and helps groups feel part of a larger community outing. Combined with the superb food and drink quality, Highland Tap’s atmosphere is a key reason it remains a beloved spot for people looking to rally with friends and family.
How accessible and convenient is Highland Tap for hosting group meetups?
Highland Tap’s convenient location at 1026 North Highland Avenue NE in Atlanta makes it an accessible choice for locals and visitors alike. Positioned in a lively district, it’s easy to reach by car or public transportation, and there is typically parking nearby, which is always a boon when coordinating group arrivals. The restaurant’s layout—with all facilities on one level accessed by steps—is straightforward, providing an intimate setting without overwhelming complexity. While the venue experiences high demand, groups can plan ahead to ensure availability and minimize wait times, enhancing the overall meetup experience.
In addition to location and accessibility, Highland Tap offers excellent value relative to the quality of food and service, making it a smart choice for groups who want a memorable night out without breaking the bank. The portions are generous, so sharing among friends or family is easy and satisfying. Gluten-free diners and those with other dietary restrictions find attentive options, expanding the pool of guests who can comfortably enjoy their time here. The welcoming environment, combined with excellent staff support, results in smooth group coordination from the moment you arrive to the last toast. All these factors create a compelling case for Highland Tap as the go-to venue to host your next gathering, where ease and enjoyment come together effortlessly.