When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Marian Cocktails & Kitchen
Why Marian Cocktails & Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Marian Cocktails & Kitchen, located in the lively Glenwood South district of Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a unique and upscale plant-based dining experience. As an innovative cocktail bar and kitchen, it specializes in vegan and plant-forward tapas curated by Executive Chef Lelia Kidd. Guests can enjoy carefully crafted vegan dishes such as Impossible meatballs, oat cheese fondue, and seasonal specialties like chunk wellington, all presented with creativity and bold flavors. The venue's atmosphere exudes good vibes, making it a perfect spot to gather with friends for an enjoyable night out or a weekend brunch. Open from mid-morning weekends for breakfast and late into the night on Fridays and Saturdays, Marian provides flexible dining options that cater to various schedules. Its location also benefits from convenient nearby parking options and proximity to other entertainment and dining venues in Glenwood South, enhancing its appeal as a social hotspot. With a menu thoughtfully designed to delight both vegans and non-vegans alike, Marian Cocktails & Kitchen stands out as a vibrant meeting place that combines exceptional drinks, enticing dishes, and a welcoming ambiance.
Here's what people think of Marian Cocktails & Kitchen
As of recent, Marian Cocktails & Kitchen holds a 4.7-star rating based on 101 reviews.
Reviews for Marian Cocktails & Kitchen consistently praise the inventive flavor combinations and quality of the vegan menu, highlighting the creativity and care Chef Lelia Kidd invests in each dish. Positive comments frequently mention the standout cocktails and the overall atmosphere, describing the space as perfect for good company and memorable evenings. Many patrons appreciate the diverse vegan offerings, including the fondue and meatless tapas, applauding the restaurant for making plant-based dining an enjoyable culinary adventure. On the other hand, some reviews note that portions can be on the smaller side, which may leave guests wanting more, especially those arriving hungry after activities like workouts. A few also felt that side dishes, such as salads and chips, were somewhat limited in size. Despite these minor critiques, the customer sentiment leans strongly positive, valuing the balance Marian strikes between quality, flavor, and vibe. In conclusion, users regard Marian Cocktails & Kitchen as a top-tier destination for vegan dining and social cocktails in Raleigh, praised for its ambiance, innovative cuisine, and solid execution with room for slight improvement in portion sizing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Camryn Colella
If I lived in downtown, I’d be walking to this restaurant several times a week! So delicious, even my omnivorous husband loved both sandwiches we ordered. If you’ve been trying to find a cute vegan restaurant with great food options and fun cocktails, look no further! I can’t wait to come back and try their brunch!
Cam
We enjoyed our time here tonight! The food was delicious.. the environment was classy and elegant. Prescott was an amazing server.. he was very patient and friendly. He gave the most perfect recommendations for food and also crafted excellent mocktails for us. We will definitely be back..
Carrie
Have you ever had a restaurant experience where each course was so delicious, imaginative, and beautiful that you wished the meal never had to end? That was my experience at Marian. Our server was so friendly and helpful, and each dish we were served was plated with so many elegant details --edible flower garnishes on the sorbet flight, vegan caviar with the bruschetta, and incredibly flavorful herb butter with the bread basket, just to name a few. I can't wait to try more of the menu. Thanks to the owners, chef, and staff for offering such a special place to dine.
Clare Curtis
Marion is a beautiful spot with a lot to love. The space is open and comfortable with plenty of seating, a nice bar area, and a great patio for when the weather’s good. I’ve been twice now and had a great experience both times. The staff was kind, attentive, and genuinely helpful. The food is delicious. My favorites so far are the oyster mushroom Rockefeller and the hot hunni chik’n sandwich, both really flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great place whether you’re going on a date or meeting up with a group. I’m already looking forward to going back.
Jason Rodriguez
This is an absolutely incredible spot. We're not even fully plant-based eaters, we just like eating great food. And let me say, this place serves delightful, inventive, and delicious food. We had the caviar service and bread service to start; the caviar service was the kind of dish that made me want to get more inventive in my own kitchen. The we had the rigatoni and chilaquiles and absolutely cleaned our plates. We wrapped up with the Tortuga a la mode. All the while we had cocktails and wine and the staff was friendly and the atmosphere was wonderful. We're new to the Raleigh area, having moved down here just a few months ago, so it's probably too soon to say that this will be my favorite spot....but we've eaten all over the country and the world and, well, this was one of our favorite meals. It was just surprising and creative, which is really the sign of an incredible place.
How to reach Marian Cocktails & Kitchen
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Why rally at Marian Cocktails & Kitchen with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Marian Cocktails & Kitchen in Raleigh offers an exceptional blend of delicious food, expertly crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes any meetup memorable. With a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 100 reviews, this venue has proven to be a reliable favorite among locals and visitors alike. The charm of Marian lies not just in its culinary creativity but also in how it fosters connection—whether for brunch, dinner, or happy hour. Imagine sharing a plate of the famous chicken and waffles, layered with a crunchy cornflake crust and pimento cheese, alongside an expertly made espresso martini. This combination of high-quality, thoughtfully prepared dishes with an inventive cocktail menu naturally inspires conversation and celebration. The staff's friendly and attentive service further enhances the experience, making every guest feel at home. Plus, the inviting ambiance—with features like a fresh, flower mural and cozy décor—provides the perfect backdrop for laughter, storytelling, and long conversations. Whether you’re catching up after work, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a weekend outing, Marian Cocktails & Kitchen is a top-tier choice that guarantees your group will leave satisfied in both palate and spirit.
What kinds of activities can a group enjoy at Marian Cocktails & Kitchen?
Marian Cocktails & Kitchen offers a variety of activities to enhance a group meetup, centered primarily around dining and socializing. The restaurant’s brunch and dinner menus are exemplary, encouraging shared dishes such as the popular chicken and waffles or an irresistible bread basket filled with assorted pastries. These sharable plates inspire a communal dining experience, perfect for groups who enjoy sampling multiple flavors together. Additionally, their cocktail program is a significant draw—creative and well-balanced, cocktails here are not just drinks but a form of social entertainment. Groups can enjoy crafting their own cocktail adventures or partake in scheduled happy hours, which provide a lively environment to unwind. The staff’s engaging and humorous service style adds a lighthearted element, sparking easy conversation among friends and family. Moreover, the comfortable seating arrangements cater well to groups, allowing for intimate chats or lively discussions without feeling crowded. The soothing ambient music and tasteful interior design create a relaxed vibe that invites guests to linger, making it ideal for gatherings that last hours. All these elements make Marian Cocktails & Kitchen not just a restaurant but a social hub where the focus is on connection through great food, drinks, and company.
Why is Marian Cocktails & Kitchen ideal for hosting family or friend meetups?
Marian Cocktails & Kitchen caters perfectly to family and friend meetups due to its inclusive menu and versatile atmosphere. Families find it accommodating thanks to options like a Mediterranean omelet tailored for different tastes and chicken and waffles loved by kids, coupled with sides such as fruit cups to balance any meal. This approach to family dining means everyone can find something they enjoy without compromising on quality or creativity. The venue also balances a laid-back ambiance with a chic aesthetic, making it suitable for casual family meals or more festive friend gatherings. The staff's warm and friendly demeanor helps groups of all sizes feel comfortable, supported, and well-cared-for. Additionally, the price points are reasonable, delivering good value for the inventive culinary offerings and quality cocktails, which is a key consideration when dining out with groups. The restaurant operates comfortably across dayparts—open from brunch through dinner—giving groups flexibility in timing. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or an evening celebration, Marian’s appeal remains strong, providing a dependable setting to nurture relationships and create shared memories over excellent food and drinks.
What food and drink experiences can groups expect at Marian Cocktails & Kitchen?
Groups dining at Marian Cocktails & Kitchen can expect an adventurous and satisfying food and drink experience that sparks joy and conversation. The kitchen’s menu features standout dishes like their chicken and waffles with a distinctive cornflake crust and pimento cheese, delivering a delightful blend of crispy and creamy textures. Other crowd-pleasers include the French toast, though some guests note the portion size is modest, which can perfectly complement shared plates. The Mediterranean omelet, including creative off-menu variations, adds an exciting twist ideal for brunch lovers. The bread basket, an assortment of pastries, serves as a great starter or light snack to keep everyone content while awaiting main courses. On the drink side, the cocktails are crafted with both creativity and precision; favorites like the espresso martini are highlighted repeatedly for their balance and flavor punch. The cocktail offering is ideal for groups who enjoy exploring various tastes or those who want to indulge in expertly balanced classics. Each drink is prepared to complement the food, enhancing the overall dining experience. This combination of robust, creative flavors with top-tier cocktails makes Marian a culinary landmark for group gatherings.
How does Marian Cocktails & Kitchen’s ambiance contribute to the group experience?
The ambiance at Marian Cocktails & Kitchen significantly enhances group meetups by creating a space that feels vibrant yet relaxed and welcoming. The interior design is both chic and fresh, featuring thoughtful elements such as a beautiful flower mural which adds a lively visual interest and a warming atmosphere. This artistic touch, combined with well-chosen lighting and cozy seating, invites guests to unwind, making it easy for groups to relax and engage in meaningful conversation. The restaurant’s vibe is described as chill and laid-back by patrons, which takes the pressure off formal dining and encourages guests to linger comfortably. The friendly, humorous service style acts as a social catalyst, breaking the ice and adding to the overall jovial mood of the venue. Furthermore, the music and noise levels are managed to be conducive to conversation without overwhelming the senses. This balance of aesthetic appeal, comfort, and social energy ensures that every group, whether large or small, can enjoy their time at Marian in a way that feels both special and effortless.
What practical features make Marian Cocktails & Kitchen a convenient choice for group gatherings?
Marian Cocktails & Kitchen is a convenient choice for group gatherings thanks to its practical features that prioritize guest comfort and accessibility. The restaurant’s hours—spanning from brunch through to late evening—offer considerable flexibility for planning meetups at different times of the day, accommodating early risers as well as night owls. Seating arrangements are designed to support groups, with options that allow parties to sit together without feeling cramped, which is a crucial factor in fostering social interaction. The staff’s attentiveness ensures smooth service despite high group volume, minimizing wait times and maximizing enjoyment. Pricing is thoughtful, offering good value for the quality and creativity of the menu, which is important when hosting multiple people. Additionally, the location in Raleigh is easily accessible, making it simple for friends and family from around town to convene without hassle. All these details—hours, seating, service, pricing, and location—combine to create a fuss-free experience that lets groups focus on their social connections rather than logistical worries.
Why do patrons consistently rate Marian Cocktails & Kitchen so highly?
Patrons consistently rate Marian Cocktails & Kitchen highly due to a remarkable combination of food quality, inventive cocktails, warm service, and a distinct ambiance. The 4.7-star rating, supported by over 100 reviews, reflects a steady stream of satisfied guests who appreciate the restaurant’s culinary creativity—highlighted by standout offerings like the chicken and waffles with pimento cheese and expertly balanced cocktails such as the espresso martini. Reviews frequently mention the friendly and approachable staff, who add personality and attentiveness to the experience, elevating it beyond just a meal. The ambiance—a chic, fresh setting with eye-catching design details—also receives praise for promoting a relaxed yet stylish vibe that appeals to a wide range of guests. Even minor critiques, such as portion sizes or specific taste preferences, are balanced by the overwhelmingly positive feedback on the overall value and experience. The restaurant’s ability to accommodate different group sizes, dietary preferences, and social occasions further entrenches its popularity. This consistent excellence across multiple facets ensures many guests choose Marian Cocktails & Kitchen repeatedly as their go-to destination for gathering with friends and family.