When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Midway Pub

Why Midway Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Midway Pub is a popular dining and social establishment located in East Atlanta Village, known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings. What makes it a great place to meet friends is its perfect blend of great food, an extensive beer selection, and a lively vibe. The pub has a large variety of drinks with 32 taps and over 100 bottles and cans, catering especially to beer enthusiasts. The venue features a spacious, dog-friendly patio, ideal for social gatherings and relaxing outdoor seating, especially during the summer months. The interior of Midway Pub retains a unique charm, situated in what used to be an old-style gas station with large service doors, which adds character and creates a comfortable ambiance. Food-wise, the menu ranges from irresistible snacks like tater tots and pretzels to more substantial Southern-style offerings such as fried chicken and the renowned Sandtown Trail Burger. The Midway Pub is also a hotspot for sports lovers, with numerous televisions ensuring everyone can catch the games. In addition, its location within walking distance to several music venues makes it a convenient and attractive meet-up spot in Atlanta's vibrant East Atlanta Village community.
Here's what people think of Midway Pub
As of recent, Midway Pub holds a 4.2-star rating based on 113 reviews.
User reviews generally highlight Midway Pub as a lively and satisfying experience in East Atlanta. Positive reviews often praise the quality of food, with some dishes described as "lick the plate" good, such as the Turkey Andouille Meatloaf and the Autumn Bowl. The large, fresh side salads and small details in service — like friendly staff and attentive servers — enhance the overall enjoyable experience. Reviewers also appreciate the pub's unique setting and welcoming, casual atmosphere, making it a reliable place for both casual dining and socializing. On the negative side, some reviews mention inconsistency in the food or service, and a few users found average or below expectations experiences, with very few reports of poor service or offerings. The pub holds a solid 4.2-star rating from over 110 reviews, indicating that it is well-liked but may have occasional areas for improvement. Overall, the reviews portray Midway Pub as a dependable neighborhood staple that offers good quality food and drinks in a relaxed, community-oriented environment with a strong appeal to both locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
R V
The bartenders are always on point with service, they are funny & very welcoming. They have a good variety of drinks and I just found out they have chilled coffee! I love to go there and play their Firelink games, so much fun! I had an issue with the money machine one time and the owner was just so super sweet and checked it out for me. The place is always clean and smells great! The atmosphere is unbelievably fun with a great variety of music being played on their digital jukebox. There is no food served there anymore, so I cannot leave review on that. Everything else is fantastic!
lisa spence
First time ordering food. Fries are awesome. My burger was a little overdone for my taste, but in all fairness, I also did not specify a cook on it. My husband had the tenders and said they were good also. As always, drinks were great.
A.B. Bruce
The pizza was surprisingly delicious.. this little hole in the wall pub was great! It allows smoking so prepare to smell like ashtrays when you leave but the food was pretty darn good and it's a dart player's paradise as they have cork boards and steel tip darts lining an entire wall.
Daniel Serna
Have been going to this bar for a few weeks. Decide to go for a friend bday on Sunday. One female bar tenders is rude and very short. As I was putting my credit card away a grabbing my drink to leave the bar area she scream, y'all need to leave the bar area. There a sign.. She was just rude and it cost the bar my business. We went back to order. She refused to service us. The other bartender have always been awesome.
Rose Ann Preyer
Great little place! Really good drink prices, TouchTunes, free darts and Golden Tee were definitely the selling points for me. As others have mentioned, it is a smoking bar so be prepared. Clean restrooms and a very laid back atmosphere with friendly staff.
How to reach Midway Pub
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Website: None

Why Midway Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Midway Pub with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Midway Pub is an invitation to share good times in a welcoming and vibrant setting. This pub is well-regarded for its lively atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for socializing. The venue’s strong points include a spacious outdoor patio where groups can comfortably enjoy fresh air while catching up, giving it an open and casual vibe that's conducive to relaxed conversation and laughter. The drinks here are known to be strong and reasonably priced, which means you can toast together without straining your wallet. Although the food may sometimes be inconsistent, standout dishes like their chicken and waffles receive high praise for taste and creativity, offering a delicious complement to your drinks. The pub's friendly staff add to a relaxed, neighborhood feel, encouraging visitors to feel at home. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or just unwind after a long week, Midway Pub presents a solid option where great company and good drinks come together seamlessly.
What makes Midway Pub great for group meetups and activities?
Midway Pub's layout and offerings are tailored to make group meetups not just possible but enjoyable. The large outdoor patio space is a major draw. It provides ample room for groups to gather without feeling cramped, making it perfect for birthdays, casual reunions, or after-work hangouts. The patio also sets a lively yet laid-back tone, ideal for enjoying the warmer seasons or mild evenings. Inside, the atmosphere buzzes with energy but retains a cozy vibe that encourages interaction amongst friends. As for activities, while traditional sports viewing isn't the primary focus here, the pub’s quality drink menu, including specialties like strong cocktails, gives groups plenty to explore and enjoy together. The drink prices further allow friends to try a few different options without breaking the bank. Although service speed can vary, many patrons find the friendly and welcoming staff make up for this, ensuring a positive overall experience. This combination of generous space, vibrant vibe, and solid drink selection makes Midway Pub an excellent venue to entertain and catch up with your circle.
What food options does Midway Pub offer for groups dining out?
Midway Pub’s menu is concise but offers some standout items that make sharing food a pleasure for groups. While the menu might not be expansive during early hours, later meals reveal some dishes that have won loyal fans, like their chicken and waffles – a dish praised for its innovative use of bacon-infused waffles and perfectly fried chicken, all topped with a maple and rosemary syrup that elevates flavor to a memorable level. Their burgers have also earned good reviews for being perfectly cooked, indicating the kitchen takes care with classic pub fare. Snacks such as corn dogs can add a playful, casual element to group dining. Since the pub atmosphere encourages socializing over drinks, these approachable, tasty dishes work well to fuel conversations without overwhelming the table or requiring a formal dining setup. If you are considering a meetup with varying tastes, the assortment of salads and lighter options could cater to those desiring healthier choices. Overall, the menu complements the pub’s social nature, providing enough variety and quality to enhance any gathering.
What kind of vibe and service can one expect at Midway Pub?
The vibe at Midway Pub balances lively energy with comfortable informality, creating the perfect environment for those looking to hang out without pretense. Customers often highlight the pub’s large, airy patio as a focal point, where the outdoor seating accommodates groups easily and adds a sunlit, breezy dimension to the ambiance. Evening meetups benefit from this open setting that naturally encourages conversation and shared experiences. Inside, the atmosphere retains a warm, neighborhood bar feel where patrons feel welcomed and encouraged to come as they are. The service tends to be friendly and accommodating although occasionally slower, suggesting the staff prioritize careful attention over speed. This relaxed pace can actually enhance the experience by allowing patrons to take in the surroundings and savor their time with friends. Such a welcoming atmosphere combined with a strong emphasis on cocktails and drink quality affirms Midway Pub’s appeal as a laid-back, sociable destination, perfect for groups seeking a casual night out.
Is Midway Pub accessible and well-suited for different group sizes?
Midway Pub is designed with group accessibility in mind, especially for mid-sized gatherings wanting to enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces. The sprawling patio is the gem for larger parties, providing plenty of seating and standing room so groups can stick together comfortably without feeling scattered. This is a significant advantage over smaller bars where space can be an issue. For smaller groups or pairs, the cozy indoor bar area offers a friendly, intimate spot to enjoy the pub’s drink menu and casual fare. The combination of flexible seating options and space utilization means that Midway Pub can cater to various group sizes, whether it’s a quick bite with a couple of friends or a larger celebration involving extended social circles. The pub’s location on the east side, a popular area with a mix of residential and nightlife appeal, further enhances accessibility for local meetups. Overall, the Midway Pub layout and ambiance support diverse group needs, making it a versatile venue for friends and family looking to connect.
What kind of audience and crowd does Midway Pub attract?
Midway Pub naturally draws a diverse crowd, largely reflective of its community-centric and laid-back ethos. The pub appeals to groups of friends, neighborhood regulars, and casual patrons seeking a friendly place to enjoy strong, flavorful drinks. Many reviews suggest a mix of younger adults alongside established locals, creating an inclusive yet vibrant social scene. The pub’s strengths — from a generous patio to reasonably priced drinks — make it popular for after-work gatherings, weekend meetups, and casual celebrations. While not primarily focused on sports or high-energy entertainment, its relaxed vibe accommodates those wanting good conversation and quality cocktails. This cross-section of clientele speaks to the pub’s ability to serve as a reliable social hub without the noise or intensity of larger nightclubs and bars. For groups seeking a familiar, welcoming setting to unwind, Midway Pub cultivates an environment that feels both lively and approachable.
How does Midway Pub compare to other local hangouts in terms of value?
When comparing Midway Pub to other local bars and pubs, its strong points clearly include a balance of quality drinks and spacious social areas at a fair price. Customers frequently note the drinks are “strong and decently priced,” marking good value for groups looking to enjoy multiple rounds without overspending. The extensive patio is another asset that provides comfort and a refreshing alternative to more cramped or purely indoor venues. While there are occasional critiques about food consistency and slower service, these factors seem secondary to the overall experience’s value. The pub’s atmosphere and pricing create a combination that most visitors find hard to beat in the area. For anyone planning a group meetup that focuses on conviviality and drink variety rather than formal dining or quick service, Midway Pub delivers a compelling mix of affordability and ambiance. This positions it as a reliable choice for those who appreciate good drinks, friendly company, and room to relax.
What makes the food at Midway Pub memorable for visitors?
Though Midway Pub’s menu may not be extensive, certain dishes have earned a devoted following for their distinctive taste and quality. The chicken and waffles stand out as a crowd-pleaser, described as “blue stars” for their uniquely crispy fried chicken paired with bacon-infused waffles and splashed with maple-rosemary syrup, creating a savory-sweet experience that guests find unforgettable. This dish reflects the pub’s skill in elevating traditional comfort food with creative twists, making it a memorable part of visits to the establishment. Additionally, the burgers have been praised for their perfect cooking, satisfying hungry appetites with classic pub fare done right. For those looking for lighter fare or shared snacks, items like corn dogs offer a nostalgic treat that fits the casual environment. These culinary highlights contribute to a well-rounded dining experience that complements the pub’s social atmosphere and keeps guests coming back.
How can Midway Pub enhance special occasions and events?
Midway Pub’s spacious patio and friendly vibe create an ideal setting for celebrating special occasions, whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or casual milestone. The large outdoor seating area enables groups to gather comfortably and enjoy their event in a relaxed yet festive environment. The venue's atmosphere naturally encourages social interaction and fun, providing a backdrop for memorable moments. While it may not offer formal event packages, the attentive service and quality drinks allow celebrations to feel personalized and enjoyable. The pub’s strong drink offerings and well-liked signature dishes contribute to creating a satisfying experience for guests without the formality of traditional banquet halls. For those wanting to mix good food, great drinks, and the company of friends in a low-key setting, Midway Pub offers a unique combination that enhances any get-together.
What should first-time visitors know before visiting Midway Pub?
Newcomers to Midway Pub can expect a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere with a strong emphasis on social drinking and outdoor enjoyment. It helps to know the menu during morning and early afternoon hours is limited, so timing your visit around later meal hours will give you access to the full range of popular dishes. Service may be a bit slow at times, so coming with a mindset of leisure and enjoying the company rather than rushing will maximize your experience. The patio is the highlight, so plan for outdoor seating if the weather is favorable. Finally, the drink offerings are strong and priced fairly, making it a good idea to try a variety of cocktails or beers to find your favorite. Overall, approaching your visit with an open and easygoing attitude will ensure you make the most of what Midway Pub has to offer.
Why is Midway Pub a top choice for East Side locals?
Midway Pub’s popularity among East Side locals stems from its combination of strong drinks, a welcoming social vibe, and the prized patio space that feels like an extension of the neighborhood. Locals appreciate the pub as a dependable spot to gather with friends, enjoy a casual meal, and sip quality cocktails without the fuss found in more high-end venues. Its location in a lively yet approachable part of town makes it easy to access for spontaneous or planned meetups. The sense of community that builds from repeated visits fosters a comfortable environment where patrons feel known and valued. This local loyalty demonstrates Midway Pub’s success in blending a neighborhood pub feel with a touch of culinary creativity and drink sophistication.
Through these many dimensions — from atmosphere and pricing to food and group accommodations — Midway Pub proves to be an excellent meeting place that invites friends and family alike to share memorable moments together.