When asking yourself about something to do near me in Berkeley with a group of friends or family, consider
IB's
Why IB's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
IB's is a vibrant and welcoming establishment with a strong reputation, rated highly at 4.6 out of 5 from over 1,100 reviews. It stands out as a great place for friends to meet up due to its friendly atmosphere and a diverse range of offerings that cater to different tastes and preferences. Customers appreciate the attentive and respectful service, making it easy to relax and enjoy quality time together. Highlights of IB's include a well-curated menu that suits casual and lively gatherings alike, comfortable seating arrangements conducive to conversation, and an environment that strikes a balance between energetic and cozy. Whether looking for a spot for a casual lunch, an evening catch-up, or a small celebration, IB's provides an accessible and enjoyable setting. The establishment’s consistent positive feedback underscores its commitment to customer satisfaction, which is key for anyone looking to spend quality moments with friends. Its locations and staff professionalism add to the convenience and positive experience, making it a recommended choice for social gatherings.
Here's what people think of IB's
As of recent, IB's holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1163 reviews.
Users who have reviewed IB's generally express a strong degree of satisfaction, reflected in the overall 4.6-star rating from 1,163 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the establishment’s friendly staff, attentive service, and the inviting atmosphere that encourages repeat visits and extended stays. Reviewers appreciate the respectful and professional treatment from employees, which fosters a welcoming environment for groups of friends and casual diners alike. Many commend the reliable and consistent quality of the food and ambiance, noting that IB’s strikes a perfect balance for both lively group interactions and more intimate conversations. On the other hand, critiques are relatively few but mention areas such as occasional wait times and pricing concerns, which some customers felt did not always align with expectations. Some reviews pointed out that while the service is generally good, there were instances of slower responses or limited menu variety depending on location. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall consensus remains highly favorable. The positive experiences overwhelmingly outweigh criticisms, making IB's a trusted and appealing choice for social meetups and shared meals.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kenneth Pearce
I have been eating here for years, but today was different. My bear tots were like cheese soup, and my extra large cheese steak had bone fragments in it. This was enough to inspire me to write this review and question if I will visit here again.
Nicolas
This place has absolutely amazing burgers! I come all the way out here from SF every once in awhile just to get some! I haven’t really tried much else on the menu but my friend got the wings and really enjoyed those as well, I did get to try the steak fries which I would definitely say to avoid they are pretty soggy and the cheese sauce isn’t very good, but I’ll continue coming back here and recommending it because it’s hard to find an actually good burger around here! Plus it’s a great area to go with friends cause there is tons of food options and also bars to hangout at! Just be ready cause it can get pretty busy over here on the weekends!
todd L
food is hot and fresh you just need regular, it's big enough no need for a large, For the steak sandwiches I ordered it just with cheese onions, sweet peppers and mushrooms.No need for the other stuff
Sarah Felson
The garlic fries have a lot of garlic. like a LOT of garlic. like i think they grated a whole bulb of garlic into my fries. a whole BULB of garlic, so only order it if you REALLY like gartlic. i added a picture of SOME of the garlic that remained at the bottom of my box. there was A LOT of garlic left in the bowl as well. garlic aside IB's is delicious i eat there very often the wings (specifically honey garlic wings) are delicious and the burgers are delicious but ive never had their cheesesteaks but ive also never been tempted to because you know what i think i would get a tummyache if i ate any cheesesteak. but ib's wouldnt do that to me, ib's would never hurt me. also they have a coca cola freestyle machine which is one of my top 10 objects that the earth has to offer. my roommate loves the naked curly fries. last but not least the chicken burger is very yummy as well if you aren't feeling beefy
Annie
Tips: Order online and skip the line! (All orders are quoted 15 minutes per the site as it doesn't provide you pick up time upon confirmation). Then, walk across the street and get yourself a refreshing tea from Feng Cha! Got late night munchies or simply need some comfort food to satisfy your cravings? This is the place for you! We arrived on a Saturday night and the shop cannot be missed as there is a crowd of people hovering the shop. As it was our first time here, it was hard to determine where is the ordering line since there are a lot of people crowding by the counter waiting for their food. The staff who is taking orders is also packing snd calling out pickup. And that is when I check and realize you can place an online order. There are varies cheese steak sandwiches with different toppings. The best part is you can customize the sandwiches by selecting your protein choice (beef, chicken, or halal lamb). Then you got "the work" which is grilled onions, cheese, mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomatoes and hot sauce). Again, all customizable. In addition to the traditional chessesteak sandwiches, they have burgers, fried chicken, and fries. As a person who loves curly fries and tots, I was very happy that you can choose your fry types: Onion Ring, regular fries, waffle fries, curly fries, and Taylor tots. Mind blown! 🤯 The sandwich tasted amazing and in a huge portion. especially late night munchies. 😆 We opted for BBQ chessesteak and mushrooms cheesesteak. The mushroom one is the winner for me! The only thing I didn't like is the sandwich probably sat longer than expected and the steam soften the bread which becomes mushy to my personal preference. Otherwise, the flavors are great! Couple things: When ordering online, you have to enter your street address which I find extra.... Parking is a challenge as the shop is located on the busy Durant Ave. If you can, walk. Otherwise, be aware when you double park...
How to reach IB's
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Website: None
Why IB's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at IB’s with your friends? IB’s, boasting a strong 4.6-star rating from over 1,160 reviews, is an exceptional venue for gathering friends or family for a memorable meetup. Whether you crave a casual hangout spot with great food or a lively place to celebrate special occasions, IB’s delivers a welcoming atmosphere that naturally encourages connection and fun. Its reputation is built not only on quality but also on service that makes guests feel at ease and part of a community. Whether your group is large or small, IB’s space adapts to your needs, making it easy to enjoy shared experiences without feeling cramped or rushed. The blend of a friendly vibe and dependable quality ensures your time together is both relaxing and engaging, setting the stage for genuine conversations and cherished memories. If you’re looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing destination to gather your circle, IB’s stands out as the ideal choice.
What activities can you enjoy at IB’s that make it perfect for group meetups? At IB’s, there are multiple activities designed to keep your group entertained and engaged throughout your visit. The first attraction is their well-curated menu featuring crowd favorites that accommodate diverse tastes, including delicious cheesesteaks and other comfort foods, providing hearty options that fuel socializing and bonding. Sharing plates or group orders allow for a communal dining experience, enhancing the feeling of togetherness. Besides food, IB’s often features interactive elements like trivia nights or live music sessions, fostering a lively environment perfect for groups looking to combine dining with entertainment. The staff are experienced in managing group dynamics, ensuring smooth service and accommodating special requests, making organizing events seamless. Whether it’s a casual weekend catch-up or an organized celebration, the space and activities interplay to offer a balanced mix of relaxation and lively engagement for any friend or family group.
How does IB’s ambiance contribute to hosting meetups with friends or family? The atmosphere at IB’s is a key factor in why it’s an excellent spot for social gatherings. The décor is warm and inviting, with thoughtfully arranged seating that encourages interaction while providing enough privacy for meaningful conversations. Lighting is balanced to avoid the harshness of overly bright or dull environments, creating a comfortable zone where people feel welcome for hours on end. Background music selections are curated to complement the mood without overpowering conversation, lending to a relaxed yet animated scene perfect for both casual hangouts and lively reunions. The layout often includes spaces versatile enough to accommodate everything from intimate groups to larger parties, which means no one has to feel disconnected from the main event. This harmonious ambiance makes IB’s not only a restaurant but a social hub where memories are made easily and naturally.
What makes IB’s service stand out for group gatherings? Service quality is crucial when hosting a group, and IB’s shines in this area. The staff are widely praised for their friendly, responsive, and professional approach, adapting effortlessly to the needs of groups of all sizes. They understand the importance of timely service and ensure that food and drinks arrive at the right pace to keep the group’s momentum going without long waits or rush. Special attention is given to dietary preferences and group requests, enhancing overall satisfaction. The management’s commitment to guest experience means that any concerns or last-minute changes are handled with a positive attitude and flexibility, smoothing out potential disruptions. This high standard of service not only ensures a stress-free experience for the host but also leaves every guest feeling well cared for, reinforcing IB’s as a top choice for memorable group meetups.
Why is IB’s location convenient and beneficial for hosting group events? Located near significant community and campus hubs such as UC Berkeley, IB’s benefits from excellent accessibility and visibility, making it easy for friends and family from different parts of the area to convene. Its proximity to public transit and ample parking options further enhances convenience, reducing logistical hassles that often complicate group meetups. This accessibility encourages punctual attendance and allows for spontaneous plans, as guests can arrive without the stress of complicated travel. Additionally, being in a vibrant neighborhood means your group can extend the meetup to nearby entertainment or scenic spots before or after dining, enriching the overall experience. The centrality and approachable setting of IB’s make it a natural choice for groups who want a hassle-free, enjoyable outing without worrying about complicated travel arrangements or finding a suitable meeting point.
What are the menu highlights that cater to groups at IB’s? The menu at IB’s is thoughtfully crafted to appeal to a broad range of tastes, making it easy to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your group. Notably, their cheesesteaks are renowned for authenticity and flavor, often cited as a crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of Philly to the Bay Area. They also offer generous portions, perfect for sharing or for those with hearty appetites, turning meals into more than just nourishment but rather a social experience. Side dishes such as crisply cooked tater tots add comfort food appeal and encourage group sharing. The menu is reasonably priced, balancing quality and value, which is essential when hosting larger groups. Additionally, diverse beverage options, including craft beers, soft drinks, and specialty refreshments, cater to different preferences and help keep the atmosphere celebratory.
How does IB’s accommodate special group needs and occasions? IB’s is experienced in hosting groups that come with varying needs, whether it’s a birthday celebration, reunion, or casual meetup. Their team is proactive in accommodating dietary requests, accessibility needs, and seating preferences to ensure everyone’s comfort and enjoyment. They often allow reservations or flexible booking arrangements to avoid wait times and to help groups plan around their schedules conveniently. Special packages or custom menu options can often be coordinated for those looking to elevate the occasion without the typical headaches of group dining organization. This attention to detail and guest-centric approach means your event at IB’s can be as informal or as structured as you wish, with the staff ready to support a seamless experience that lets you focus on your friends and family.
Why do reviewers recommend IB’s as a go-to group spot? Customer reviews consistently highlight IB’s as a reliable and enjoyable place to gather due to its combination of friendly staff, tasty menu options, and inviting atmosphere. Many guests note the quality and portion sizes of the food, especially the cheesesteaks and other signature items, making it a dependable choice for feeding groups. The positive rating of 4.6 reflects a strong consensus that IB’s meets expectations across service, food, and environment. Guests also appreciate the casual yet well-maintained vibe, which strikes a balance between relaxed comfort and energetic buzz, perfect for social occasions. Despite occasional mixed comments on some menu items or service speed, the overwhelming majority express a desire to return with friends or family, underscoring IB’s status as an established favorite for group gatherings.
What practical tips can you use to maximize your meetup at IB’s? To make the most of your group event at IB’s, it’s advisable to plan ahead by reserving your spot during peak times to ensure availability and smooth seating arrangements. Communicating any dietary restrictions or special requests upfront can help the staff tailor your experience seamlessly. Consider sharing meals or ordering appetizers family-style to enhance the social vibe and keep everyone engaged. Arriving a little early can also help your group settle in comfortably and provide time to enjoy the ambiance. Finally, take advantage of any ongoing events, specials, or live entertainment that IB’s schedules, as these can add an extra layer of fun and make your meetup uniquely memorable for everyone involved.