When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
JenChan's
Why JenChan's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
JenChan's is a vibrant restaurant located in Atlanta's charming Cabbagetown neighborhood, known for its unique fusion of Southern and Asian cuisines. Co-owned by Emily and Jen Chan, an LGBTQ+-owned establishment, it emphasizes bringing people together through the joy of shared meals. Initially starting as a supper club delivering meals across Atlanta, JenChan's evolved into a full-fledged restaurant in 2019, overcoming early financial hurdles and thriving despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The restaurant's thoughtfully curated menu features comforting Chinese dishes, seasonal specials, and acclaimed pizzas, including the beloved 007 pizza with its complex combination of pesto, mozzarella, feta, and prosciutto. JenChan's also offers options for various dietary preferences, including grass-fed beef, pastured pork, gluten-free, vegan, and pescatarian dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it an excellent spot for friends and families to come together and enjoy a memorable dining experience centered on community and comfort. The dedication to quality and culinary innovation, combined with its heartfelt origin story, makes JenChan's a standout destination for those seeking both exceptional food and a welcoming environment.
Here's what people think of JenChan's
As of recent, JenChan's holds a 4.7-star rating based on 535 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise JenChan's for its flavorful and inventive dishes, highlighting the successful fusion of Asian and Southern influences. Many customers rave about signature items such as the Mongolian beef, the house-made egg rolls, and especially the 007 pizza, which is noted for its rich combination of ingredients and distinctive taste. The warm, attentive service and the cozy, inclusive ambiance also receive frequent commendations, contributing to a positive overall dining experience. Positive feedback often emphasizes the sense of community fostered within the restaurant and the celebration of shared meals, which resonates deeply with patrons. However, some negative reviews mention that certain dishes could benefit from more seasoning, suggesting occasional inconsistency in flavor balance. A few customers also note the challenges of securing a reservation due to the restaurant's popularity. Despite these minor critiques, the majority of reviews reflect strong satisfaction with the food quality, atmosphere, and mission of JenChan's. Overall, the restaurant is regarded as a unique and beloved fixture in Atlanta's food scene that successfully combines comfort food with culinary creativity and community spirit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
j z
This is truly a fun restaurant with good food. It has a very unique atmosphere that makes customers relaxed happy. Food is kinda interesting. It is not Chinese food. It is sort of fusion of Asian and European. Very delicious. I highly recommend the Teach and Peach pizza. It is surprising very delicious and unique.
Adrianna Ruiz
There’s a very unique experience that happens at JenChan’s that feels like coming home to a caring, nurturing family after a long, arduous day. The food is like no other in the city, carefully crafted, unique & well thought out. The vegan options are truly delicious, better than most 100% vegan restaurants in Atlanta. The staff always give such a warm welcome and great service. I always feel so excited to come to JenChan’s and see them on the patio. I was baffled, as a regular, to find I don’t have many pictures of the food - probably because I am able to feel so present while I’m here that I don’t even really think about my phone. Since I sit on the patio (which is great for people watching in Cabbagetown), either Harrison or Carrie are my server. Harrison is incredibly attentive & caring, and can intuit my needs as a regular now. Carrie has such a beautiful exciting energy. They both make coming here such a treat to look forward to. Thank you to everyone at JenChan’s for creating such a beautiful space to feel like coming home to. XOXO, Gay Card Carrying Member
Dionne Gule
Delta stranded me overnight in Atlanta so I popped down to this Cabbagetown favorite to indulge in the BEST GINGER MARGARITAS on the planet, only to be reminded how much I miss the food. THE FOOD HERE IS ABSOLUTELY CRAVEABLE, the flavors are somehow nostalgic and unexpected and the vibe created by the staff makes you want to smile inside and stay a bit longer. #eatsuppertogether
Antoinette Palomino
Why didn’t anyone tell me this restaurant has been open for the past 5 years?! So glad we discovered it. The food is AMAZING and so full of flavor. Who would think to put Mongolian beef with fried rice and pineapple?! The pork egg rolls with the duck sauce were also too good! If you like steamed dumplings they have some good ones. The cocktails were delicious! Really enjoyed the frozen tequila based one. The service was so great from everyone. It’s kid friendly too. The decor is unique and feels like a great place to enjoy a great meal with people you love. Can’t wait to go back to try the pizzas!
Joseph Sheffield
Update- Came back 3 days later to try Pizza. The bread is perfect/ingredients fresh. Could use more flavor/seasoning. Good value for authenticity. C-Town sauce helps pizza. Tostada perfect. Peach cinnamon roll best I ever had-wow. Got two to-go. Empanada amazing. Loved the lady peas and creama. Lump crab dish was not it. Bacon jam pizza was delicious, but I was expecting the onion jam to be more sweet like jam. I should have ordered an extra marinara sauce on the side. Chicken and waffles were delicious, the chicken is thigh and not breast meat. This restaurant is absolutely in our top spots. Full, enjoyed, fair prices, great brunch, authentic, great service, clean restrooms. Parked in the neighborhood on the street close by. Nice neighborhood vibe spot. Thought it would look more Asian but it’s American vibe W/inside & outside seating. Servers are super cool. Carey was oh so perfect. Good drinks, I like the hibiscus soda. Brussels-10/10. Perfect crisp and seasoning Fried Mushrooms- 9/10 very tasty with lemon pepper wet. The fried crispy outside breading can be a lil more than the mushroom but we ate it all-so good. Wings-great flavor-C Town Spicy. 8.8/10. A lil dry like they were rewarmed. Small wings. Could be a couple dollars less. Rou Jia Mo-Burger 10/10 love the house made bread. Duck fat puts wow flavor in that fresh grilled burger. Perfect toppings. Only $12. Add that to the menu. Mongolian Fried Rice or chicken fried rice-10/10 Tender beef, Love the fresh peas and corn in the rice. Has pineapples in it. Perfect flavor and taste. Hot and fresh. I’d order again. Chicken option didn’t have pineapples and it was amazing also. Chocolate Biscoff Cake- Wow. Best chocolate cake I ever tasted. I’m not a chocolate cake fan, but I tried it because of the Biscoff. The icing and the cake were utterly amazing. I ate half of it there even though I was planning on taking it all home. I typically like thinner layers of cake and thinner layers of icing But the softness of this arrangement allow for you to eat as much cake or as much icing as you needed to at a time and I’m sure it’s easier for them to do two layers. It’s perfect, don’t change it. Fries with pork and house ketchup. Good idea and tasty, but the ketchup has too much twang in my opinion. Cucumber salad-light and refreshing but too light/plain tasting-just tasted like cucumbers in oil. although it was a good break from the seasoning I had on the other dishes. Pizza’s delicious. They allow you to alter and make whatever you can think of they have-awesome. Not many heavy entrees but a lot of really good fun food. I was overall happy and would recommend.
How to reach JenChan's
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Why JenChan's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying with your friends at JenChan's in Atlanta promises an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends delicious food, a vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming space designed for groups. Why gather here? Because JenChan's is not just a restaurant; it's a dynamic social hub where you and your friends can bond over innovative dishes that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, from classic Chinese comfort food to unique fusion pizzas. The friendly service, cozy ambiance, and availability of outdoor seating create a relaxed environment perfect for catching up and making memories. Plus, their commitment to inclusivity with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options ensures that everyone in your group will find something they love. Whether you crave a laid-back dinner or a lively brunch, JenChan’s offers a setting that encourages connection, laughter, and shared enjoyment in a space that feels both intimate and fun. The addition of board games and a lively, “vibe” atmosphere only enhances the experience of rallying your friends here, making it a go-to spot in Cabbagetown for spontaneous gatherings or special celebrations.
What Makes JenChan’s Ideal for Group Meetups and Social Gatherings?
JenChan’s stands out as an excellent venue for group meetups primarily due to its versatile menu and inviting environment. They serve a unique combination of Chinese cuisine and pizza, which allows groups with diverse preferences to dine comfortably together. Their menu is highly customizable, letting guests modify many dishes with alternatives like Impossible beef or vegan pork, making it an inclusive choice even for varied dietary restrictions. Furthermore, the restaurant features plenty of vegan and gluten-free options clearly labeled on the menu, and the staff is knowledgeable about allergies, ensuring a safe dining experience. The inclusion of items like sesame street fries topped with gochujang ketchup and dim sum-style brunch dishes add a playful twist to the menu, sparking excitement and conversation among friends. Beyond food, the cozy indoor seating coupled with a spacious, pet-friendly outdoor patio makes it possible for groups to find a spot that suits their mood, whether they seek a buzzing atmosphere or a quieter nook. The availability of board games offers an added layer of engagement, transforming a meal into a memorable social event. Combined, these features solidify JenChan’s as a perfect place for casual dinners, celebrations, or casual weeknight hangouts where fun and flavor are guaranteed.
What Activities and Amenities Does JenChan’s Offer for Groups?
JenChan’s isn’t just about great food; it offers numerous activities and amenities that make group visits more enjoyable and interactive. One standout feature is the collection of board games available to diners, which invites guests to engage in friendly competition and shared amusement while waiting for their meals or between courses. This simple addition fosters a sense of camaraderie and sets a playful tone for meetups. Their outdoor seating area is another highlight—nestled on the charming Carroll Street, it provides a vibrant yet laid-back environment perfect for enjoying Atlanta’s pleasant weather while dining. The atmosphere suits everything from casual get-togethers to birthday celebrations, where friends and families can converse freely in an open-air setting. JenChan’s also hosts a dim sum-style brunch that introduces a fun communal dining element, encouraging groups to try and share multiple small dishes. Alongside the excellent drink options like hibiscus soda and creative cocktails, these amenities make JenChan's more than a place to eat; it becomes a welcoming community space catering to enjoyment and connection.
Why Is JenChan’s Menu So Perfect for Diverse Groups?
The menu at JenChan’s is specially crafted to please a wide range of palates, making it a prime choice for group dining. Its hybrid concept – combining Asian flavors with Southern and fusion influences – means that diners can choose from traditional Chinese favorites, innovative pizzas, and creative sides all in one place. This mix ensures there’s something on the menu for every guest, no matter their food preferences or dietary needs. Many dishes are fully or easily made vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, with special care taken to mark these options clearly on the menu to help guests with allergies or dietary restrictions feel confident in their choices. The restaurant’s pizza offerings are particularly notable, with inventive toppings like Mongolian beef and Vietnamese pork that bring exciting flavors ordinarily unheard of in pizza joints. This culinary creativity creates a fun and exploratory dining experience for groups, who can share multiple dishes and discover new favorites together. The emphasis on freshness, quality ingredients, and bold flavors means your group’s meal is as satisfying as it is unique.
How Does JenChan’s Accommodate Dietary Restrictions and Allergies?
JenChan’s is highly regarded for its attentiveness to guests with dietary restrictions, making it an ideal place for groups that include guests with gluten intolerance, vegan or vegetarian preferences, or other health needs. Most of the menu items are naturally gluten-free or can be made gluten-free, and the restaurant uses dedicated fryers to avoid cross-contamination, which is rare for Chinese and pizza restaurants. The staff is well trained and knowledgeable about ingredient sourcing and allergen management, meaning they are ready to answer questions and accommodate special requests with care and professionalism. This dedication is underscored by customer experiences highlighting the restaurant’s understanding of celiac disease and other allergies, with servers marking orders clearly to ensure safe preparation. This inclusivity means groups can relax and enjoy their meal without worrying about safety or discomfort, fostering a more comfortable and enjoyable communal dining experience for everyone.
What Is the Atmosphere Like at JenChan’s That Suits Group Get-Togethers?
The atmosphere at JenChan’s is a perfect blend of cozy and lively, creating an environment where groups feel at home but also energized. The restaurant’s design highlights casual comfort with a buzz of camaraderie, making it a vibrant space for socializing. The staff’s friendly and attentive service adds to this welcoming vibe, encouraging guests to linger and enjoy their time together. The outdoor patio seating, often praised by patrons, offers a charming view of Carroll Street and the Cabbagetown neighborhood, which adds a relaxed, open-air feel that’s excellent for groups who want to enjoy Atlanta’s climate while dining. Whether it’s a spontaneous weeknight gathering or a planned celebration, JenChan’s manages to strike a balance between laid-back comfort and an upbeat, fun setting. This atmosphere, combined with the eclectic menu and available activities like board games, supports memorable experiences where groups can truly connect and unwind.
What Unique Food Items Should Groups Try When Visiting JenChan’s?
Groups looking to impress their taste buds at JenChan's should definitely try some of their standout signature dishes that showcase their creative culinary approach. The much-lauded 007 Pizza is a must-try, boasting a pesto base with an indulgent mix of mozzarella, feta, confit tomatoes, mushrooms, roasted garlic, fried prosciutto, parmesan cheese, balsamic reduction, and basil oil—a combination that creates a rich and savory delight that travels beautifully from the kitchen to your table. Another favorite is the sesame street fries, a unique dish topped with gochujang ketchup, crispy chilis, and a runny over-easy egg, combining spicy, tangy, and creamy textures that spark excitement and conversation. For those craving more traditional fare, the Mongolian beef fried rice and vegan pork dishes offer satisfying flavors balanced with freshness. The dim sum-style brunch is also popular for groups wanting to share and sample multiple small plates, enhancing the communal dining experience. With such variety, groups can order across the menu and enjoy a tasting adventure that stimulates both palate and friendship.
Overall, JenChan’s offers everything needed for a successful and enjoyable group meetup: a diverse and inventive menu, a welcoming and versatile atmosphere, and thoughtful amenities that promote togetherness. It stands out as a favorite spot in Atlanta’s dining scene for those seeking a place where food, fun, and friendship come together effortlessly.