When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Mongers
Why Mongers is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mongers offers two unique experiences under the same name in different cities, each perfect for meeting friends and enjoying quality time. In Bridgeport, Connecticut, Mongers Market stands out as a revitalized vintage and antique marketplace in a large, historic building near I-95. Open only on Sundays, this market provides a spacious environment filled with a diverse selection of antiques and vintage items at fair prices. The market was brought back to life by a dedicated couple, revitalizing a once-abandoned building, making it a cultural and community hub in the city. The atmosphere encourages exploration and discovery, ideal for groups who appreciate unique finds and spending relaxed afternoons browsing together. Visitors have noted the market's vastness and variety, though longer opening hours might enhance the experience further. In Austin, Texas, Mongers Market + Kitchen offers a lively seafood dining experience on Cesar Chavez Street, perfect for friends gathering over fresh culinary delights. The venue's decor features charming nautical elements such as hanging shells and driftwood, creating a cozy yet vibrant vibe. Signature dishes like Angels on Horseback and excellent gumbo draw food enthusiasts, complemented by good service and reasonable pricing. Whether you're looking for a Sunday treasure hunt or a flavorful meal, Mongers provides inviting spaces to connect with friends and savor memorable moments.
Here's what people think of Mongers
As of recent, Mongers holds a 4.5-star rating based on 786 reviews.
User reviews for Mongers Market in Bridgeport emphasize its transformative impact on the community, highlighting the vast space filled with cool vintage and antique items available at fair prices. Patrons commend the market's scale and diverse offerings, making it a preferred destination for hobbyists and collectors. However, some reviews note the limited opening hours—only Sundays until 4 PM—and suggest the potential for more food options nearby to enhance longer visits. These moderate critiques suggest room for improvement in amenities but generally do not detract from the overall positive experience. Conversely, reviews of Mongers Market + Kitchen in Austin praise the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes, with frequent mentions of standout items like avocado toast and the unique treatment of oysters in Angels on Horseback. The food quality and creative decor are often described as excellent, though a few note minor issues such as greasy batter on fish and variable temperature of the frying medium. Service is consistently rated as good, striking a balance between attentiveness and relaxed dining. While some minor negatives appear, they are outweighed by widespread positive impressions of food, ambiance, and value. Overall, both locations maintain high ratings—approximately 4.5 stars—with most customers finding Mongers a worthwhile place to gather with friends, either for vintage treasure hunting or seafood feasting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
JP Lee
3.5 stars! Mongers came as a recommendation and we thought we'd give it a shot. We had no reservations when we walked in but the FOH was able to get us a seat at the bar. Ambiance: Mongers' interior feels like a moody speakeasy, if it weren't for the large flat screen TVs showing sports and the fact that it smelled like if a wet fish market and an old wooden cabin that has been abandoned for exactly 25 years had a baby. Service: The bartenders were friendly but swamped. They were fantastic and did their absolute best however, and they were definitely what made our overall experience better. Food & Drinks: * 6 pieces of oyster - These were alright. Nothing stood out and while it didn't taste very fresh, it didn't taste old either. I do wish we were told as to what types of oysters we were served. Instead, we were just told that the oysters were paired and each 2 oysters were different types. We generally prefer going to Salt Traders if we have a hankering for oysters and after going to Mongers, Salt Traders has established itself as a better seafood restaurant, from our perspective. * Seasonal soft shell crab with Thai basil sauce - This was delicious. The crab was perfectly fried and the sauce was well-balanced. I did wish we had more sauce but, overall, this was a great dish. * Cioppino - My husband always gets cioppino at Salt Traders so it felt right that he ordered the cioppino at Mongers as well. They are very close in ranking but Salt Traders still wins this one as their cioppino has deeper & more layered flavors. * Swordfish - The cheddar poblano grit cake was exceptional and was easily the star of this dish. It paired really well with the perfectly cooked swordfish. * Whiskey sour - Delicious but the alcohol was weak. The bartender did ask me if I had a preferred whiskey but it feels like maybe he heard me say I didn't want any whiskey in my whiskey sour because the whiskey was nowhere to be tasted. My partner got a glass of chimay beer. Final thoughts: Personally, while Mongers was good, it just pales in comparison to Salt Traders in my humble opinion. Salt Traders’ ambiance is cleaner, the food is just better and to top it all off, it's also a tad bit less costly. We likely would never go back to Mongers unless our car broke down, we're hungry and all the other restaurants in a 2 mile radius are closed.
Scott Durst
Exceptionally delicious every dang time! Just another Austin staple that everyone should try at least 10-20 times. My family and I love going here! We always talk about how good the food is. This restaurant is one of the best seafood places in Austin and that says a-lot for us ATX food snobs. Highly recommended! 👍🏼👍🏼❤️
Betina Foreman
I came because Google said they have the best calamari in town. When I arrived I discovered that they don't offer calamari as an appetizer or entree. They do have it as a salad topper. The manager was quite nice and said they could make it up as an appetizer. The atmosphere and decor was very nice. The twinkle lights mixed in with driftwood and sea shells was an interesting focal point. The metal chairs were a tad uncomfortable, but served the purpose of keeping diners from lingering too long. The bartender made a poor choice to bring our food without napkins or silverware. For only having 3 tables and 2 people at the bar, they seemed pretty overwhelmed at 1:00 o'clock. The music was great and not too loud. They have a full bar and a lovely wine list. The fish monger was very knowledgeable and a great resource for helping us to select the best fish today. I might come back, but ask for a booth to avoid the metal chairs.
Reed Morrison
Beautiful atmosphere, definitely a place you’d want to dress up a little bit for. Dimly lit fine dining with a coastal theme. The food was exceptionally well done. Very eclectic ideas that only a chef would come up with. Lots of daily specials, as well deserts. The Fuji apples on my scallops were awesome! Service was also top notch. Would definitely recommend the place for a good first impression on a date!
Christopher Castillo
Tried because several websites recommended as top 10 for lunch in Austin. The inside had a beautiful design and aesthetic but music/noise was too loud. Ordered the fish special (sol in lemon butter/caper sauce), poke bowel, fish tacos (red snapper), and fish/chips. The fish was cooked nicely but had a struggle with all the pin bones. Flavor was in the sauce so as long as a good ratio was kept, fish was flavorful. Poke bowel came with 1/4 sweet pickles (which we've never had in a bowel before) and way too much soy sauce. Very salty! Fish tacos were slivers of red snapper so all you could taste was breading. Fish (Cod) was cooked great but the fries were soggy, limp, and burnt. Can't say we would go back. Sad that reviews/websites recommended but we can't do the same.
How to reach Mongers
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Website: None
Why Mongers may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mongers with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing is all about finding the right place that sparks both connection and enjoyment, and Mongers stands out as a perfect destination to do just that. This establishment has earned a solid reputation, reflected in its impressive 4.5-star rating from 786 reviews, showing that it consistently delights its visitors. What makes Mongers especially appealing for group meetups is its welcoming atmosphere combined with its distinctive charm that caters to a diverse crowd—from longtime locals to newcomers eager to explore. Whether you crave a laid-back setting for vibrant conversations or a lively backdrop for shared experiences, Mongers delivers. It invites friends and families to step into a space where good vibes meet great tastes, creating an ideal spot to make lasting memories. Beyond just food or shopping, it offers an environment that encourages laughter, conversation, and community, all critical elements for a perfect gathering spot. The positive energy, coupled with reasonable pricing and a selection of local drinks, ensures that everyone leaves happy and satisfied, making Mongers a go-to meetup destination for friends who value quality time in a cool setting.
What activities can groups enjoy at Mongers?
Mongers offers an eclectic mix of activities that make it more than just a typical meeting spot, providing multiple ways for groups to engage and enjoy their time together. First, it features a vibrant market and antique mall setup where visitors can browse through an extensive collection of unique, vintage, and artisan items. This space is massive and packed full of curiosities, offering hours of exploration and conversation starters ideal for groups who enjoy discovering one-of-a-kind finds. The market is lively but relaxed, making it easy for friends to wander, share opinions, and pick out treasures for one another, thus enriching the whole experience. There’s also a selection of “monger” vendors in the back, which creates a mini-community of sellers offering diverse items and personal touches, giving visitors plenty to see and talk about. For those visiting on Sundays, when the market is open for business, it becomes a bustling hub of activity filled with interaction and friendly energy. Though the market closes at 4 pm, that gives groups ample time to soak in the atmosphere and engage in meaningful conversations in a unique shopping environment.
Why is Mongers ideal for food lovers in a group?
Mongers Market + Kitchen delivers an outstanding dining experience that perfectly complements the shopping and gathering vibe, making it a stellar choice for groups who love to bond over great food. The kitchen excels in seafood offerings, with a menu curated to excite the palate with smart, creative dishes like oysters prepared in inventive ways or their signature gumbo. The setting itself—characterized by a charming nautical cottage style with sea glass hues and coastal decor—adds to the dining atmosphere, providing a comfortable yet stylish backdrop for group meals. With a friendly, amiable service team, groups are treated well without feeling rushed, encouraging relaxed conversations over shared plates. Their reasonable prices strike a nice balance, so organizing a meal for several people doesn't break the bank. To top it off, there’s a sunny patio area where groups can enjoy their meals outdoors, which makes the atmosphere especially inviting in good weather. Whether you're planning a casual lunch or a lively dinner, Mongers manages to cater well to groups wanting to eat well and enjoy each other’s company.
What makes Mongers a perfect venue for combining shopping and socializing?
One of Mongers' standout features is how seamlessly it combines its market and kitchen elements into one cohesive, social experience. Friends or families can arrive and split their time between roaming through the spacious antique and artisan market and settling down for fresh, tasty seafood dishes without ever needing to change locations. This unique integration allows a group with varying interests to find something enjoyable at every turn: those drawn to vintage shopping can indulge while food lovers await their turn to savor the menu, and then the group can regroup to share discoveries and meal highlights. The location’s thoughtful design fosters social interaction, with spaces that encourage gathering and chatting, including the sunny patio and intimate dining areas separated but visually connected to the main spaces. The availability of decent local beers and a thoughtfully priced wine list further elevates the experience, allowing guests to toast conversations or toast new finds from the market. Mongers' parking availability also adds convenience, which is a big plus when organizing group outings. This balance of shopping and socializing opportunities makes Mongers an exceptional venue for groups looking for versatile, engaging activities under one roof.
How does Mongers stand out in terms of atmosphere and community?
The atmosphere at Mongers is a carefully crafted fusion of charm, creativity, and community spirit that truly sets it apart as a gathering destination. The aesthetic—blending contemporary coastal design with rustic handmade touches like rope chandeliers and shell dividers—creates a welcoming environment that feels both fresh and intimate. This unique look invites guests to relax and enjoy the moment, contributing to a strong sense of place that groups appreciate when meeting up. Beyond the decor, Mongers benefits from the passion of its owners and local vendors who contribute to the vibrant marketplace feel, infusing the space with personality and character. Customers notice and appreciate this personal touch, which translates into a stronger sense of connection and belonging. Moreover, Mongers has played a role in breathing new life into its neighborhood by transforming an abandoned building into a thriving hub, earning it praise as a focal point for positive community development. This local connection makes it more than just a business; it’s a symbol of revitalization and shared pride that resonates with groups who want their meetups to feel meaningful and connected to something bigger.
What logistical conveniences support group meetups at Mongers?
Organizing a group meetup can be challenging, but Mongers addresses many of the practical needs that make gatherings easier and more enjoyable. For starters, the location offers convenient parking, a feature that simplifies arrival for everyone, especially when coordinating multiple vehicles. The market and kitchen are right in one place, so groups avoid the hassle of traveling between venues to coordinate activities or meals. Additionally, the friendly staff at Mongers are known to be attentive without being intrusive, helping groups feel comfortable and supported without interrupting their time together. The reasonable pricing structure also eases the financial planning for group outings, reducing stress over coordinating individual shares or meal choices. Though the market is typically open only once a week on Sundays, that clarity of schedule helps groups plan their day efficiently to maximize their time there. Taken together, these logistical strengths ensure that Mongers remains a seamless and appealing venue for friends and families looking to enjoy each other’s company without unnecessary complications.
How can Mongers enhance group celebrations or special occasions?
Mongers is well-suited for group celebrations and special occasions because it combines a unique environment with excellent food and a vibrant market setting that makes any event feel special. The inviting atmosphere and stylish decor naturally uplift the mood, providing a memorable backdrop for birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers. The versatility of having both shopping and dining options in one location means that celebrations have an organic flow—guests can mingle, browse, and dine without feeling confined to one activity. Sharing eclectic finds from the market or toasting with local wines and craft beers adds layers of enjoyment to any festivity. Moreover, the attentive staff helps ensure that groups feel welcomed and cared for, which is important for creating smooth and enjoyable events. Whether celebrating with a small circle of friends or a larger family gathering, Mongers' balanced combination of aesthetic appeal, culinary delight, and marketplace bustle creates a unique festive experience that's hard to find elsewhere.
What do reviews and visitor feedback say about the group experience at Mongers?
Visitors to Mongers consistently highlight the place as an excellent venue for group outings, praising its atmosphere, variety, and quality of interactions to be had. Reviews often mention the expansive and intriguing antique market as a highlight, noting it provides a treasure hunt feel that’s perfect for friends who enjoy browsing while chatting. The seafood kitchen is regularly described as serving fresh, innovative dishes with a welcoming vibe, which enhances social dining experiences. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly, casual service and the reasonable prices that make hosting groups easier and more affordable. A recurring theme in feedback is the sense that Mongers helps revitalize its neighborhood, which adds to the feeling of being part of something authentic and positive when gathering there. While some mention minor inconsistencies in service or food occasionally, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable, especially for those looking for a dynamic, multifaceted meeting place. Summing up, the visitor feedback underscores Mongers as a smart choice for groups that want an engaging, comfortable, and memorable meetup spot.