When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Lookout Tavern

Why Lookout Tavern is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lookout Tavern has established itself as an exceptional place to meet up with friends across two iconic locations, each offering a unique atmosphere and stunning views. In Killington, Vermont, the Lookout Tavern is a prized après-ski destination with a rich history dating back to 1958, originally serving as the resort's first ski lodge. Today, it provides a vibrant, casual environment featuring Vermont's best wings, craft beers, specialty cocktails, and hearty fare like steak burgers and chili. Its rooftop patio, Vermont's only one of its kind, offers over 60 seats with breathtaking views of the Killington Basin and ski trails, making it perfect for social gatherings amidst nature's beauty. Meanwhile, the Lookout Tavern in Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard, is famed for its waterfront dining overlooking Nantucket Sound. This venue combines a relaxed coastal vibe with an impressive menu boasting fresh seafood, a raw bar, sushi, and sandwiches like lobster rolls—the quintessential East Coast treat. Both locations emphasize a welcoming atmosphere, great crowd energy, and top-notch service, making Lookout Tavern ideal for friends seeking memorable meals complemented by spectacular scenery.
Here's what people think of Lookout Tavern
As of recent, Lookout Tavern holds a 4.2-star rating based on 2396 reviews.
Reviews of Lookout Tavern reflect strong appreciation for both its atmosphere and food quality across locations. Positive reviewers often highlight the fantastic scenic views—mountains in Vermont and waterfront in Oak Bluffs—that enhance the dining experience. Many praise the quality and variety of food offered, especially noting Vermont's renowned wings, fresh seafood, sushi selections, and the beloved lobster rolls. The friendly staff and lively, casual vibe receive frequent commendations, making it a favored spot for après-ski relaxation or seaside dining. On the downside, some guests have mentioned occasional wait times and busier periods leading to slower service. A few reviews occasionally note variability in food preparation or availability during peak seasons. Despite these points, the majority of feedback remains enthusiastic, emphasizing the tavern’s consistent dedication to quality and atmosphere. Overall, reviews affirm Lookout Tavern as a dependable, enjoyable venue that successfully balances excellent cuisine with inviting social settings and remarkable views, creating a place locals and visitors alike return to time and again.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sherry Gomez
Came for the UFC PPV and was pleasantly surprised. Plenty of televisions. Clean place with really good food. The shroom brisket burger was amazing. We will definitely be back. Don’t sleep on this place. Loved it.
Terry Vant Hul
I have been there three times, the first time my son-in-law wanted to treat my wife and I. I ordered the bison burger and what I received was a plain beef burger. I tried to eat it for my wife's son but just couldn't. so I sent it back. A manager came out and claims the cook made a mistake and would personal see the right was made. I declined because I don't trust a kitchen to remake my food. The second time was ok I split something with my wife was nothing to write home about. But this last time we went was the sole purpose was to go out and have a bison burger, well that didn't happen. I ended up with another BEEF burger!!! This time I only took one bite and i was done. The waitress wanted to know if I wanted redone and I told her no I don't trust redone food. Then she wanted know if I wanted the manager and I declined because if after two times they are tying to sell regular ground beef as bison or their cook doesn't know the difference. In either case not worth going back or recommending to anyone.
Elisa Maria Kline
Lookout Tavern has such a special place in my heart. First off, the food is amazing. I never had a bad meal here. The atmosphere can get a little loud, though it's so much fun to go with friends, family, and a date. The service is amazing, I've been going here for about 3 years and only had one bad service time. As someone who is a server/bar tender, I get it. I love coming here for drinks they have something for everyone here if you drink beer, cider, wine, or liquor. Lastly, this bar is a STEELERS bar. As someone who grew up as a steelers fan on the East Coast, it makes me happy to see fellow Steeler Nation fans. I love coming here. The only downside is I recently moved to Glendale and am now not down the road to Lookout anymore, though you better believe I'll make the drive during football season 🫶🏽😂 10/10 recommend this restaurant 💁🏽♀️
Erik M.
Yeah I wouldn't recommend this place. Slow service. Had to repeat myself to multiple servers I wanted water and ended up having to force one of the bartenders to give me two cups of water. I say force because he said my server should be able to assist me but I had already asked twice and no water. Waited 15 mins for water. That's ridiculous. Wings were good. Pizza was doughy. Not my type of pizza. It tasted like school lunch pizza from back in the early 2000's.
Michelle Kelker
Absolutely love Lookout Tavern! The food is consistently delicious, and I really appreciate their gluten-free options. It makes dining out so much easier and more enjoyable. I had their GF pizza and it was SO good! The staff is always friendly, the atmosphere is upbeat, and everything I’ve tried has been full of flavor. Love all the fun games on their patio from darts, to board games they do not miss a beat. Whether you’re grabbing a casual bite or out for a night with friends, this spot never disappoints. Highly recommend!
How to reach Lookout Tavern
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Why Lookout Tavern may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lookout Tavern with your friends? Lookout Tavern offers an inviting atmosphere that combines great food, exciting entertainment, and a vibrant social scene, making it an ideal hub for friends and family to gather. Whether you're seeking a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or a late-night hangout, this tavern caters to every mood and time of day. The venue’s focus on quality—especially in sound and music—enhances the overall experience, creating a dynamic backdrop that lifts spirits and encourages connection. This is not just a place to eat and drink; it’s a gathering spot where you can celebrate milestones or simply unwind together. Its reputation, reinforced by a continuous flow of positive reviews, ensures that visitors get consistently good service and food in a welcoming environment. The combination of delicious food, craft drinks, and a calendar full of social activities means you’re never short of reasons to rally your crew at Lookout Tavern.
What kind of activities can you enjoy for a fun group meetup? Lookout Tavern is known for its broad range of activities that appeal to groups looking to share memorable moments. They regularly host live music nights, transforming the space into an energetic venue where friends can enjoy performances spanning various genres. If your group likes some friendly competition or interactive fun, they offer Trivia Night which is great for team bonding and laughs, testing your collective knowledge across a variety of topics. There’s also Bingo Night, another classic group activity that encourages lighthearted competition and engagement, allowing attendees to connect over a shared goal. Additionally, being a sports bar, Lookout Tavern streams major sporting events on big screens, making it a prime spot for friends to cheer on their teams together. These events and activities create a lively atmosphere where groups can engage in shared experiences beyond just dining.
Why is the food experience at Lookout Tavern perfect for groups? The menu at Lookout Tavern is designed to accommodate a variety of tastes, which is crucial when catering to a group. Their offerings include classic favorites such as fish and chips and lobster rolls, complete with homemade potato chips, impressing seafood lovers and casual diners alike. The food quality is consistently praised, not only in the dining room but also for takeout orders, ensuring that dishes arrive fresh and crisp if you choose to gather elsewhere. This variety helps satisfy diverse preferences, making it easier to please everyone in your group. Beyond just taste, the portion sizes and sharing-friendly dishes encourage communal eating styles that foster camaraderie during your meetup. The careful attention to presentation and flavor means your gathering is complemented with satisfying, well-prepared meals.
How does the venue accommodate group comfort and socializing? Lookout Tavern takes group comfort seriously. The layout offers a mix of seating options, including booths, tables, and high tops, allowing groups to find their ideal space based on size and preference. Larger parties often have reserved booths, giving your meetup a dedicated spot to relax and enjoy privately without distractions from the surrounding crowd. The tavern also features a well-maintained outdoor patio where guests can socialize in the fresh air, with some locations even accommodating dogs. This flexibility in seating arrangements means your group’s dynamic and comfort are prioritized, whether you’re mingling actively or sharing quiet conversations. Staff are generally attentive to group needs, ensuring timely service and a welcoming environment to enhance your gathering experience.
What makes Lookout Tavern an ideal location for special occasions and social gatherings? Beyond the day-to-day vibe, Lookout Tavern’s dedication to sound quality and music sets it apart, raising the energy level during your special moments or casual meetups. The space is designed so that music and conversation coexist harmoniously without overpowering one another, facilitating an ideal ambiance for socializing. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or just a spontaneous get-together, the environment is both festive and comfortable. The tavern also welcomes reservations for larger groups, supporting event planning with ease. Moreover, its consistent operating hours—from lunch into late night—provide the flexibility to host gatherings any time, adapting to varied schedules of all attendees.
Why is Lookout Tavern considered a great sports bar for group viewing? Fans of live sports will find Lookout Tavern a vibrant setting to rally with friends. The venue prioritizes streaming major sporting events on big screens, enabling everyone in the group to capture every moment of the game. The enthusiastic crowd atmosphere amplifies the thrill of competition, making it much more enjoyable than watching from home. With a broad menu of drinks and food to keep you fueled, it naturally becomes a go-to destination for game days. Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball, or soccer, the tavern’s sport-centric vibe hosted in a lively social environment makes it the perfect arena for friends to unite and cheer together.
What dining features address various group needs and preferences? Lookout Tavern understands that groups often include individuals with different dietary preferences and needs, and they strive to accommodate these with options like gluten-free meals. This makes it easier to plan inclusive gatherings where everyone can eat well without concern. Beyond dietary considerations, the venue imposes no strict dress code, allowing groups to dress casually or up for the occasion. The flexible environment encourages people to be comfortable while enjoying quality food and drinks. The spacious seating arrangement and accessible facility ensure that groups of different sizes and compositions can comfortably meet at their convenience, without feeling cramped or restricted.
How does the location and surrounding atmosphere contribute to a great meetup? Situated conveniently in North Phoenix, Lookout Tavern benefits from easy accessibility and ample parking, reducing logistical hassles for group meetups. The exterior's inviting look establishes a positive first impression, and interior décor balances casual tavern aesthetics with a hint of modern flair. Its position in a lively neighborhood offers additional opportunities for pre- or post-meetup activities, such as nearby shopping or strolling. For those who enjoy outdoor seating, the patio offers scenic views during daylight, sometimes even sunset vistas, which enhance the social experience by adding a natural, picturesque backdrop. This combination of location, ambiance, and surroundings makes Lookout Tavern not just a stop on your day, but an integral part of a richer outing with friends or family.
Why is the social vibe at Lookout Tavern uniquely appealing? Lookout Tavern crafts a balanced social atmosphere where energetic events coexist with intimate conversational spots. On event nights like bingo or trivia, the energy peaks with communal excitement, fostering new friendships and strengthening existing ones. At quieter times, the quality of music and sound lets groups enjoy each other’s company without raising voices, supporting deeper conversations. This dual nature appeals to diverse groups, from those wanting a lively party environment to others seeking a relaxed catch-up. Staff engagement further enhances this vibe by facilitating smooth, courteous service and sometimes even participating in event hosting. This results in a welcoming, friendly community space where every group leaves feeling more connected.
What makes Lookout Tavern stand out compared to other local taverns and bars? Lookout Tavern’s dedication to a multi-faceted experience sets it apart from typical bars or single-focus restaurants. Not only does it provide quality food and drink, but it also offers a rich calendar of events catering to different interests, whether musical, sports-related, or game-based. Its obsession with sound quality and music creates a distinct atmosphere not found in many other local spots. Additionally, consistent positive reviews about food freshness, staff attentiveness, and overall ambiance reinforce its reliability as a group venue. This commitment to combining excellent food, engaging entertainment, and customer comfort ensures that Lookout Tavern remains a top choice for those seeking a vibrant yet approachable social hub.
Ultimately, Lookout Tavern is much more than a place to eat and drink; it is a destination for creating lasting memories with friends and family through good food, fun activities, and a spirited communal vibe. Its blend of atmosphere, menu diversity, entertainment options, and comfort make it ideally suited for any type of group meetup, guaranteeing a rewarding experience for all who gather under its roof.