When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Monks Meadery
Why Monks Meadery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Monks Meadery stands out as a unique and charming venue in Atlanta for friends and enthusiasts to gather and enjoy one of the oldest forms of alcohol: mead. Located at 579 N. Highland Ave in the vibrant Poncey-Highland neighborhood, the meadery offers a welcoming tasting room where visitors can sample a variety of meticulously crafted meads. The space is the first dedicated retail interface for the business, giving patrons a chance to not only taste different meads but also to learn about the brewing process and the story behind the brand. Established by high school friends Justin Schoendorf and Martin Key, Monks Meadery has grown from homebrew roots into a celebrated producer of modern, dry-style carbonated meads, distinguished by their crispness, subtle honey flavors, and playful infusions such as dragon fruit, passion fruit, and lavender. The meads are often served chilled in drinking horns, adding to the social and experiential charm. Recognized with awards like Gold Medals at the International Mazer Cup, Monks Meadery appeals to both novices and connoisseurs, offering an inviting atmosphere perfect for catching up with friends over a shared appreciation of handcrafted beverages.
Here's what people think of Monks Meadery
As of recent, Monks Meadery holds a 4.9-star rating based on 127 reviews.
Customer reviews for Monks Meadery highlight an overwhelmingly positive reception, reflected in its excellent 4.9-star rating from 1276 reviews. Reviewers frequently praise the quality and uniqueness of the meads, noting their distinctive dry style and the pleasantly light carbonation that makes them easy to sip and enjoy. The tasting room experience itself receives commendations for its friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance the visit by sharing the meadery's compelling backstory and helping guests navigate the diverse flavor options. Many customers appreciate the creative flavor profiles, such as 'Dragon's Nectar' and 'Faerie Dew,' which add a whimsical element to the tastings. On the downside, some patrons mention occasional challenges such as limited seating during busy times or the niche nature of mead potentially not appealing to all palates. However, these points are minor among the vast majority of glowing remarks that emphasize the meadery’s warm ambiance, engaging presentation, and excellent beverage selection. In conclusion, Monks Meadery is celebrated as a standout Atlanta spot ideal for both social gatherings and mead discovery, bringing together community and craft in a uniquely enjoyable way.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Arash Ranjbaran
We’d never tried mead before, and this was the perfect spot to try it! We tried all 12 by getting two taster flights. Some gems in there, with some very creative flavors. The service & atmosphere was welcoming and friendly , made it enjoy to enjoy a few drinks there. We also tried the pickles and charcuterie board, both were good. It’s definitely a place you need to experience. I would recommend it to visit at least once for everyone.
James Jones
Recommended by Ben from Project Lean Nation as he mentioned he knew the owner back when he was selling Mead from his car! As someone who’s worked with and sold craft beer for years in northwest Florida, mead seems to be elusive and a rare sight at any craft beer spot so I was ecstatic to visit my first Meadery. Quaint, tucked away and with a unique vibe, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience here from the overall aesthetic to the plentiful options to choose from to drink and to buy as souvenirs! We got some snacks; the Frankfurt, pretzel and got a flight of 6 different flavored meads with an additional two “shots” of mead aged in whiskey & tequila barrels respectively. Overall, enjoyed my time here and highly recommend if you are a lover of mead and for those that never had it.
Matt Estes
After years of enjoying their mead "in the wild," I had my first chance to visit Monk's during Dragon Con 2025. From start to finish, everything was great. Allison at the bar was warm, friendly, and funny. She made it feel like I was visiting a friend at her home, and her thoughts and recommendations on some new meads to try were spot on. I ended up starting with a flight and shifting to a full pour of my favorite from the bunch (Savannah Heat). On top of wonderful staff and good drinks, if you're looking for something to eat, Monk's offers some tasty snacks to choose from including charcuterie, Bavarian style pretzels, girthy pickles, and a few other goodies. I snagged a pretzel to pair with my libations, and was happy with my choice. The visit and experience on Saturday was so good, I came back the next day for another round before dinner. So, whether this is your first time looking to try mead, or you've been someone who has enjoyed it for a while, Monk's is certainly worth a visit.
Laura Beth Daws
One of Atlanta’s most amazing hidden gems! They have a variety of mead, all of them worth trying. Each one is different and flavorful. If you’ve never had mead before, this is the perfect place to try it! The atmosphere is warm and cozy, with a lovely outdoor patio. And, the service is fantastic. Everyone was so friendly, especially Allison, who made sure we were taken care of during our visit. I’ll be going back again the next time I’m in the neighborhood!
Sam VanderMeulen
Awesome atmosphere, super friendly staff, plenty of tables and games on hand, great spot to spend a few hours. Highly recommend getting a flight to try as many meads as possible, a steal for $15. Plague Doctor and Red Wedding were our favorites.
How to reach Monks Meadery
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Why Monks Meadery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Monks Meadery with your friends? Monks Meadery is a unique and inviting destination that elevates a simple meetup into a memorable experience. With a stellar 4.9 rating from over 127 reviews, it clearly stands out as a favorite in the Atlanta area. This award-winning meadery specializes in dry styles of mead, an ancient and versatile honey-fermented beverage that offers something distinct from typical beers or wines. Whether you are a mead enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Monks Meadery presents a rich variety of flavors—from those reminiscent of a craft cocktail to others echoing the depth of wine or the freshness of beer. This diversity makes it an ideal spot for groups with varied tastes. The atmosphere is cozy yet lively, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for socializing. Friendly, knowledgeable staff guide you through tasting flights, which are an interactive and enjoyable way to explore the nuanced world of mead with friends. The combination of great drinks, knowledgeable service, and a welcoming ambiance makes Monks Meadery an exceptional place to gather with your friends for fun, conversation, and discovery.
What activities can I do at Monks Meadery that make it great for group meetups? Monks Meadery provides several engaging activities that cater to groups, making it the perfect backdrop for a social gathering. First and foremost, tasting flights are a highly recommended activity, offering a curated selection of six different meads in sample sizes. This allows group members to share their favorites and compare flavors, sparking conversation and connection. The staff’s expertise enhances this experience, as they offer detailed insights about each mead’s production, flavor profile, and history, which can be fascinating and educational. Beyond tastings, the venue features both indoor and outdoor areas sized to comfortably accommodate groups, providing a relaxed yet lively environment. This flexibility lets groups find the setting that best suits their mood, whether it’s a snug corner for intimate talks or an outdoor spot to enjoy the fresh air. Monks Meadery also hosts occasional events and collaborations that can add an extra layer of entertainment and engagement to your visit, such as artist collabs and themed merchant merch. Thus, the variety of social, sensory, and educational activities makes it a fantastic place to bond and celebrate with friends or family.
Why is Monks Meadery the perfect place to host a meetup with friends or family? Monks Meadery is not only about the unique product it serves—the mead—but also about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes every guest feel like part of a community. This sense of inclusion is vital for group meetups where the goal is to connect and have fun. The venue’s layout is designed for social interaction, with ample seating, ambient lighting, and a welcoming rustic aesthetic that echoes the craft and tradition of mead-making. The knowledgeable team is another key factor; their passion and friendliness help break the ice and foster engaging conversations. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned mead drinker, the staff’s personalized guidance ensures that everyone in the group feels involved and can find a mead style that suits their palate. Additionally, the location’s vibrant neighborhood adds to its appeal, offering a safe, accessible, and lively neighborhood gem feel. The option to enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces is especially advantageous for larger parties or those who enjoy some fresh air while socializing. All these factors combine to make Monks Meadery not just a place to drink, but a venue dedicated to shared experiences and joyful gatherings.
What kind of mead and drinks does Monks Meadery offer to its guests? At Monks Meadery, the focus is on dry-styled meads, a category that highlights the versatility and complexity of honey-fermented beverages. Unlike the sweeter, more commonly known meads, the dry varieties here can emulate the characteristics of wines, beers, or even craft cocktails, making each tasting a unique sensory experience. The tasting flights include six sample pours, allowing guests to explore a range of flavor profiles—from light and crisp to bold and robust. This diversity caters to groups with differing tastes, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy. Moreover, the meads are crafted with a balance that invites comparison and commentary, which is perfect for social tastings. In addition to flavored meads, the venue periodically offers special releases and collaborations that add variety to the menu. These options keep the experience fresh for returning visitors and provide a conversation starter for first-timers. This extensive and thoughtfully curated drink selection elevates Monks Meadery from a simple bar to a destination where craft and creativity meet, making it highly suitable for group celebrations.
How does the atmosphere and service at Monks Meadery enhance the group experience? The atmosphere at Monks Meadery is characterized by a warm, relaxed vibe that feels both intimate and lively enough to be festive. The meadery occupies a quaint space tucked behind a coffee shop in the vibrant North Highland Avenue area, offering a neighborhood feel that customers often describe as a hidden gem. Whether you are seated indoors among rustic décor or outside in the fresh air, the setting encourages relaxed and meaningful social interaction. The staff are repeatedly praised for their friendliness and their knowledgeable approach, which not only helps guests understand mead better but also makes the experience more inclusive and enjoyable. Their ability to recommend specific flights or meads based on individual preferences means groups get a personalized tasting adventure. Service is prompt and attentive without being intrusive, maintaining a perfect balance that lets groups feel cared for while enjoying their own time together. This combination of ambiance and service transforms a visit to Monks Meadery into more than a simple outing; it becomes a memorable event centered on connection and discovery.
What makes Monks Meadery stand out compared to other local beverage spots? Monks Meadery distinguishes itself primarily through its dedication to mead, a beverage that is rare in many local markets, and particularly through a refined focus on dry styles. This differs from many breweries and wineries, offering an alternative that intrigues both aficionados and novices alike. The establishment has earned significant acclaim, as reflected in its near-perfect rating and the Travelers’ Choice award it has received, marking it as one of the top destinations in Atlanta. Unlike generic tasting rooms, it combines a craft, artisanal approach to its products with an educational and engaging customer experience. Its participation in collaborative events and limited-edition releases demonstrates a commitment to innovation and community involvement. Moreover, the venue’s comfortable spaces and the vibrant neighborhood location add additional appeal, making it a natural gathering place for locals and visitors who want something special and off the beaten path. These factors collectively position Monks Meadery as an exceptional venue within Atlanta’s crowded beverage scene, perfectly suited for group visits.
How can I plan the best visit to Monks Meadery with my friends or family? Planning a visit to Monks Meadery to ensure everyone has a memorable experience starts with timing and knowing the venue’s schedule. Monks Meadery is open later in the week and on weekends, with its prime hours from Thursday through Saturday and shorter hours on Sunday, so choosing these times maximizes your opportunity to enjoy tastings and the full atmosphere. Booking in advance or arriving early on busy days can be wise, especially for larger groups. Consider opting for tasting flights to allow everyone to sample a variety of meads and engage in shared discovery. Pair your visit with a meal or snacks if available nearby, as mead’s varied flavors can be complemented beautifully by food. Also, exploring Monks Meadery's website and blogs can offer ideas for surrounding activities in the area, allowing you to extend your group outing into a longer day or evening adventure. Finally, take advantage of the friendly staff’s expertise by asking for recommendations tailored to your group’s preferences, ensuring an inclusive and personalized experience for all attendees. Proper planning will turn your gathering at Monks Meadery into an enjoyable and perhaps even transformative social event.