When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Joe Sent Me
Why Joe Sent Me is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Joe Sent Me is a cherished American restaurant located on Main Street in Waltham, MA, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. Its laid-back local vibe combined with attentive service creates a comfortable spot where customers feel right at home. The restaurant’s menu features classic American dishes made with skill and care, complemented by a selection of drinks served by friendly and capable bartenders. The establishment prides itself on its community feel, with familiar faces and regulars adding to the friendly environment. With a modest staff that values a close-knit workplace, Joe Sent Me caters well to those looking for a dependable, casual dining experience without pretense. Highlights include the proficient kitchen that maintains high-quality meals and the welcoming bar area where patrons can relax and enjoy great drinks. Whether for a casual lunch, an evening outing, or catching up with friends over drinks, Joe Sent Me stands out as a great local gem in Waltham’s dining scene.
Here's what people think of Joe Sent Me
As of recent, Joe Sent Me holds a 4.3-star rating based on 254 reviews.
User reviews of Joe Sent Me mostly reflect positive experiences, with many patrons praising the welcoming environment and skillful staff. Positive reviews often highlight the friendly and appreciative ownership, congenial management, and an overall culture that values hard work and customer satisfaction. The bartenders and cooks receive particular commendation for their professionalism and engaging service, which significantly contributes to the restaurant’s excellent atmosphere. Many reviewers mention the place as a great local spot with familiar faces, making their visits comfortable and inviting. On the downside, some reviews note challenges such as inconsistent pay and benefits and occasional issues with job stability for staff, which might affect long-term employee retention. However, these critiques are mostly from former employees rather than customers, indicating operational hardships rather than diner dissatisfaction. Overall, customer feedback leans heavily positive, endorsing Joe Sent Me as a reliable, enjoyable venue where quality food and friendly service combine to create a memorable dining experience that encourages return visits.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alex Ball
Consistent, quality pub food with reasonable prices! We only go for Tuesday trivia and it's a great time. Great host and atmosphere. A broad mix of ages but primarily college through 30's. They don't take reservations so you need to get there early to get a table.
Cayes Jarda
Man! I made the huge mistake of going to a different bar, and I'm on my way to the one and only Joe Sent Me of Cambridge. This bar is like Cheers. Everyone knows your name! Not just the bartenders, but even the regulars. I stumbled into this bar about 6 months ago and have been coming 2-3 times a week. I usually get their quesadilla, wings, or anything on the sat brunch (can't go wrong on that menu). I left for about 2 months on vacation and when I returned the Owmer, Sandy shook my hand and asked where I had been! I felt very appreciated and welcomed. Jen & Steph are great bartenders and will remember your drink after two visits or less! I don't leave bad reviews, but I will definitely not be going back to that other bar. Tell Joe, Cayes sent you! Be there soon! Oh, the fish and chips are great! Had it for the first time a couple days ago. It was so tasty I had to stop and take a picture! ************************************ Update 6/12/2025 Still my favorite place for fish & chips and wings!
Ben Benson
Just an all around great bar. Not a dive, not a fancy gastropub. Just a good neighborhood bar, with a solid drink menu, good classic bar food and friendly servers who you’ll get to know if you go often enough. One of my favorite spots for bar trivia in the area.
Tristal Watson
I just moved to the area & have eaten here twice already! It's such a laid back, chill atmosphere. The food & service is great. The Buffalo dip & Cuban are my favorites. Although this is a bar, it's a good place for kids too. They burger sliders never disappoint!
Alex B
Great food and drinks! Nice interior ambience.
Alex Ball
Consistent, quality pub food with reasonable prices! We only go for Tuesday trivia and it's a great time. Great host and atmosphere. A broad mix of ages but primarily college through 30's. They don't take reservations so you need to get there early to get a table.
Cayes Jarda
Man! I made the huge mistake of going to a different bar, and I'm on my way to the one and only Joe Sent Me of Cambridge. This bar is like Cheers. Everyone knows your name! Not just the bartenders, but even the regulars. I stumbled into this bar about 6 months ago and have been coming 2-3 times a week. I usually get their quesadilla, wings, or anything on the sat brunch (can't go wrong on that menu). I left for about 2 months on vacation and when I returned the Owmer, Sandy shook my hand and asked where I had been! I felt very appreciated and welcomed. Jen & Steph are great bartenders and will remember your drink after two visits or less! I don't leave bad reviews, but I will definitely not be going back to that other bar. Tell Joe, Cayes sent you! Be there soon! Oh, the fish and chips are great! Had it for the first time a couple days ago. It was so tasty I had to stop and take a picture! ************************************ Update 6/12/2025 Still my favorite place for fish & chips and wings!
Ben Benson
Just an all around great bar. Not a dive, not a fancy gastropub. Just a good neighborhood bar, with a solid drink menu, good classic bar food and friendly servers who you’ll get to know if you go often enough. One of my favorite spots for bar trivia in the area.
Tristal Watson
I just moved to the area & have eaten here twice already! It's such a laid back, chill atmosphere. The food & service is great. The Buffalo dip & Cuban are my favorites. Although this is a bar, it's a good place for kids too. They burger sliders never disappoint!
Alex B
Great food and drinks! Nice interior ambience.
Alex Ball
Consistent, quality pub food with reasonable prices! We only go for Tuesday trivia and it's a great time. Great host and atmosphere. A broad mix of ages but primarily college through 30's. They don't take reservations so you need to get there early to get a table.
Cayes Jarda
Man! I made the huge mistake of going to a different bar, and I'm on my way to the one and only Joe Sent Me of Cambridge. This bar is like Cheers. Everyone knows your name! Not just the bartenders, but even the regulars. I stumbled into this bar about 6 months ago and have been coming 2-3 times a week. I usually get their quesadilla, wings, or anything on the sat brunch (can't go wrong on that menu). I left for about 2 months on vacation and when I returned the Owmer, Sandy shook my hand and asked where I had been! I felt very appreciated and welcomed. Jen & Steph are great bartenders and will remember your drink after two visits or less! I don't leave bad reviews, but I will definitely not be going back to that other bar. Tell Joe, Cayes sent you! Be there soon! Oh, the fish and chips are great! Had it for the first time a couple days ago. It was so tasty I had to stop and take a picture! ************************************ Update 6/12/2025 Still my favorite place for fish & chips and wings!
Ben Benson
Just an all around great bar. Not a dive, not a fancy gastropub. Just a good neighborhood bar, with a solid drink menu, good classic bar food and friendly servers who you’ll get to know if you go often enough. One of my favorite spots for bar trivia in the area.
Tristal Watson
I just moved to the area & have eaten here twice already! It's such a laid back, chill atmosphere. The food & service is great. The Buffalo dip & Cuban are my favorites. Although this is a bar, it's a good place for kids too. They burger sliders never disappoint!
Alex B
Great food and drinks! Nice interior ambience.
Ben Benson
Just an all around great bar. Not a dive, not a fancy gastropub. Just a good neighborhood bar, with a solid drink menu, good classic bar food and friendly servers who you’ll get to know if you go often enough. One of my favorite spots for bar trivia in the area.
Alex Ball
Consistent, quality pub food with reasonable prices! We only go for Tuesday trivia and it's a great time. Great host and atmosphere. A broad mix of ages but primarily college through 30's. They don't take reservations so you need to get there early to get a table.
Cayes Jarda
Man! I made the huge mistake of going to a different bar, and I'm on my way to the one and only Joe Sent Me of Cambridge. This bar is like Cheers. Everyone knows your name! Not just the bartenders, but even the regulars. I stumbled into this bar about 6 months ago and have been coming 2-3 times a week. I usually get their quesadilla, wings, or anything on the sat brunch (can't go wrong on that menu). I left for about 2 months on vacation and when I returned the Owmer, Sandy shook my hand and asked where I had been! I felt very appreciated and welcomed. Jen & Steph are great bartenders and will remember your drink after two visits or less! I don't leave bad reviews, but I will definitely not be going back to that other bar. Tell Joe, Cayes sent you! Be there soon! Oh, the fish and chips are great! Had it for the first time a couple days ago. It was so tasty I had to stop and take a picture! ************************************ Update 6/12/2025 Still my favorite place for fish & chips and wings!
Tristal Watson
I just moved to the area & have eaten here twice already! It's such a laid back, chill atmosphere. The food & service is great. The Buffalo dip & Cuban are my favorites. Although this is a bar, it's a good place for kids too. They burger sliders never disappoint!
Alex B
Great food and drinks! Nice interior ambience.
Alex Ball
Consistent, quality pub food with reasonable prices! We only go for Tuesday trivia and it's a great time. Great host and atmosphere. A broad mix of ages but primarily college through 30's. They don't take reservations so you need to get there early to get a table.
Cayes Jarda
Man! I made the huge mistake of going to a different bar, and I'm on my way to the one and only Joe Sent Me of Cambridge. This bar is like Cheers. Everyone knows your name! Not just the bartenders, but even the regulars. I stumbled into this bar about 6 months ago and have been coming 2-3 times a week. I usually get their quesadilla, wings, or anything on the sat brunch (can't go wrong on that menu). I left for about 2 months on vacation and when I returned the Owmer, Sandy shook my hand and asked where I had been! I felt very appreciated and welcomed. Jen & Steph are great bartenders and will remember your drink after two visits or less! I don't leave bad reviews, but I will definitely not be going back to that other bar. Tell Joe, Cayes sent you! Be there soon! Oh, the fish and chips are great! Had it for the first time a couple days ago. It was so tasty I had to stop and take a picture! ************************************ Update 6/12/2025 Still my favorite place for fish & chips and wings!
Ben Benson
Just an all around great bar. Not a dive, not a fancy gastropub. Just a good neighborhood bar, with a solid drink menu, good classic bar food and friendly servers who you’ll get to know if you go often enough. One of my favorite spots for bar trivia in the area.
Tristal Watson
I just moved to the area & have eaten here twice already! It's such a laid back, chill atmosphere. The food & service is great. The Buffalo dip & Cuban are my favorites. Although this is a bar, it's a good place for kids too. They burger sliders never disappoint!
Alex B
Great food and drinks! Nice interior ambience.
Alex Ball
Consistent, quality pub food with reasonable prices! We only go for Tuesday trivia and it's a great time. Great host and atmosphere. A broad mix of ages but primarily college through 30's. They don't take reservations so you need to get there early to get a table.
Cayes Jarda
Man! I made the huge mistake of going to a different bar, and I'm on my way to the one and only Joe Sent Me of Cambridge. This bar is like Cheers. Everyone knows your name! Not just the bartenders, but even the regulars. I stumbled into this bar about 6 months ago and have been coming 2-3 times a week. I usually get their quesadilla, wings, or anything on the sat brunch (can't go wrong on that menu). I left for about 2 months on vacation and when I returned the Owmer, Sandy shook my hand and asked where I had been! I felt very appreciated and welcomed. Jen & Steph are great bartenders and will remember your drink after two visits or less! I don't leave bad reviews, but I will definitely not be going back to that other bar. Tell Joe, Cayes sent you! Be there soon! Oh, the fish and chips are great! Had it for the first time a couple days ago. It was so tasty I had to stop and take a picture! ************************************ Update 6/12/2025 Still my favorite place for fish & chips and wings!
Ben Benson
Just an all around great bar. Not a dive, not a fancy gastropub. Just a good neighborhood bar, with a solid drink menu, good classic bar food and friendly servers who you’ll get to know if you go often enough. One of my favorite spots for bar trivia in the area.
Tristal Watson
I just moved to the area & have eaten here twice already! It's such a laid back, chill atmosphere. The food & service is great. The Buffalo dip & Cuban are my favorites. Although this is a bar, it's a good place for kids too. They burger sliders never disappoint!
Alex B
Great food and drinks! Nice interior ambience.
How to reach Joe Sent Me
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Website: None
Why Joe Sent Me may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Joe Sent Me with your friends? Joe Sent Me offers an inviting, casual atmosphere that is ideal for gathering with friends or family for a laid-back meetup. Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, this American pub-style restaurant has a solid reputation, highlighted by its 4.3-star rating from over 250 reviews, demonstrating consistent guest satisfaction. Visitors often praise the friendly and attentive service, making everyone feel welcome right from the moment they walk in. The menu features hearty comfort food classics such as juicy, generously topped burgers and flavorful bar favorites like crispy chicken fingers paired with house-made sauces, providing satisfying choices that appeal to a wide variety of tastes. There’s a lively yet relaxed vibe, with multiple TVs offering sports entertainment, perfect for groups who want to enjoy a game while sharing a meal. Additionally, the restaurant’s extended hours, including late nights until 1 a.m. on weekdays and midnight on Saturdays, give you ample time to socialize without feeling rushed. This combination of great food, welcoming staff, and a comfortable environment makes Joe Sent Me a prime destination to rally your group for memorable moments.
What activities can I enjoy at Joe Sent Me with friends? Joe Sent Me thrives as a social hub, especially for groups seeking communal dining and entertainment in one place. The centerpiece is the food experience, tailored for sharing; big, loaded burgers, salads, and bar snacks are popular, offering variety and generous portions to suit every appetite. The restaurant’s bar serves beer by the pitcher, allowing friends to raise a toast together over classic craft brews and local favorites, which is perfect for casual, convivial gatherings. With multiple televisions scattered throughout the venue, it doubles as a sports bar, so groups can watch major games or matches live, creating an energetic and engaging backdrop to any meet-up. On top of that, the venue’s seating is flexible—consisting of booths, bar seating, and movable tables—making it easy to accommodate groups of different sizes comfortably and encourage conversation. Over the years, many guests have noted the pleasant atmosphere and smooth flow of service that enhance the overall group experience, turning simple meals into memorable occasions. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a dinner with drinks, or a late-night hangout, Joe Sent Me covers the essentials for a great group outing.
Why is Joe Sent Me a perfect place to host group meetups? When choosing a place to meet friends or family, convenience, comfort, and a welcoming vibe are essential. Joe Sent Me hits all these marks with its central location right on Main Street in Waltham, making it easily accessible, especially for those staying in nearby hotels. The diverse menu caters to all tastes and dietary preferences within a group, offering everything from indulgent burgers to lighter salad options, ensuring that no one feels left out. The casual, unpretentious interior encourages relaxed socializing where guests can settle in for hours without feeling pressure, aided by friendly, attentive staff known for accommodating group needs efficiently. The ability to enjoy beer pitchers and watch sports together creates a shared experience that strengthens bonds and sparks lively conversations. Lastly, the restaurant’s reputation for quality bar food and consistent positive reviews reflect a dependable place where groups can confidently plan their gatherings without surprises. Overall, Joe Sent Me provides the perfect blend of tasty food, inviting space, and group-friendly amenities that make it an excellent choice for meetups.
What kind of food can I expect at Joe Sent Me? Joe Sent Me specializes in American comfort food with an emphasis on bar and pub classics made with quality ingredients. The menu consistently delights guests with hearty offerings such as enormous burgers layered with bacon, cheese, and flavorful dressings, served alongside crispy fries and pickles. Chicken fingers are another standout item, paired with house-made honey mustard that perfectly balances the dish’s juicy and crispy textures. Several reviewers describe the food as satisfying and well-prepared, ideal for those looking for a filling meal after work or on weekends. Salads on the menu provide a fresher alternative and come with excellent dressings, catering to those who prefer lighter fare. While the cuisine focuses on indulgence rather than healthiness, it is praised for its good quality and taste, making it a go-to spot for a casual dining experience that hits all the right comfort notes. Beers and drinks complement these dishes well, rounding out the food and drink experience for groups.
How is the ambiance and seating arrangement suited for groups? The atmosphere at Joe Sent Me is both welcoming and adaptable for groups of friends or family looking to spend quality time together. The space balances a lively pub feel with comfortable seating options that include bar stools, small tables, and a few booths, which can be rearranged to fit larger parties. This flexibility ensures that groups are not confined to single table sizes and can easily congregate in configurations that suit the occasion. The presence of multiple TVs makes it a natural choice for sports fans who want to keep up with their favorite teams while socializing. Guests often comment on the friendly and warm service staff who contribute positively to the overall mood, making diners feel at ease and well attended to. Although not a high-end or elegant setting, the straightforward, no-frills style enhances its appeal as a neighborhood hangout where everyone can relax, talk, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company without distractions.
What are the operating hours and accessibility at Joe Sent Me? Joe Sent Me provides ample opportunity for group gatherings by offering extended hours throughout the week. From Tuesday to Friday, it opens at 11:30 a.m. and stays open until 1 a.m., allowing for midday meals as well as late-night socializing. Saturdays see the venue open from 11:30 a.m. till midnight, and Sundays also offer late hours until 1 a.m., making it convenient for weekend meetups whether they start early or stretch into the night. This schedule is perfect for accommodating different plans, whether it’s a casual lunch meetup, an afternoon break with drinks, or a late-night group hangout. The restaurant’s location on Main Street in Waltham is accessible by car and public transportation, providing ease of arrival for various guests. Parking and nearby accommodations add to the convenience, especially for out-of-town visitors or those staying at local hotels, creating one more reason why Joe Sent Me is a smart choice for group events.
What do reviewers say about the overall experience at Joe Sent Me? Reviews of Joe Sent Me reflect a consistently positive experience that appeals especially to groups looking for a reliable gathering spot. Many guests highlight the friendly and accommodating staff who ensure orders are made to preference and service runs smoothly even during busy times. Food quality is frequently applauded, with burgers and chicken fingers often singled out for praise due to their flavor and portion size. While some note that it’s not a place for gourmet or trendy dining, it excels as a comfortable and unpretentious venue serving solid, tasty bar food. The atmosphere is described as warm and lively with a sports bar flair, ideal for casual conversation and group interaction without overwhelming noise or formality. This blend of factors contributes to Joe Sent Me’s reputation as a go-to spot for groups to gather, enjoy good food, and socialize for hours.
Why is Joe Sent Me a great local choice for groups and visitors? Joe Sent Me stands out as a dependable, community-focused establishment that offers value beyond just food and drink. Its strong local reputation and positive word-of-mouth in Waltham make it a place where locals feel at home and visitors can comfortably join in the convivial ambiance. The combination of comfort food classics, friendly service, sports entertainment, and flexible seating options creates an environment that naturally fosters socializing and reconnecting. Its long-standing operation since 1996 speaks to its ability to satisfy guests over time and adapt to the needs of a diverse clientele. Whether you’re catching up with old friends, celebrating an occasion, or simply seeking a no-fuss venue to enjoy quality time, Joe Sent Me delivers on the essentials. This makes it not only a good restaurant choice but also a welcoming community hub perfect for group meetups.
In summary, Joe Sent Me in Waltham, MA, offers a balanced combination of great food, comfortable space, and a friendly atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to rally with friends or family. With its menu of satisfying American classics, accommodating group seating, extended hours, and sports bar amenities, it ticks nearly every box for a memorable and enjoyable gathering. Its solid reviews and community reputation further confirm that Joe Sent Me is a smart, reliable option for people looking to connect over good food and drinks in a welcoming, casual setting.