When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Palo Santo
Why Palo Santo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Palo Santo is a sophisticated and lively Mexican restaurant located in Atlanta's trendy West Midtown warehouse district, just a few miles from downtown and Georgia Tech. The restaurant is set in a cool, stylish space featuring adobe and orange accents that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. A major highlight is the rooftop bar, offering patrons stunning open views of the city skyline — perfect for socializing and unwinding with friends. The menu, crafted by Mexico City-born Chef Santiago Gomez, presents modern takes on Mexican cuisine with artistic plating and innovative flavor combinations. Highlights include exceptional dishes such as mussels in a savory broth, grilled cauliflower served whole over a wood fire with miso caramel, and breathtaking sea bass with sunchoke puree. Drinks are equally noteworthy, with a well-crafted classic margarita accented by black charcoal salt rims and a brilliant charred old-fashioned cocktail. Weekly specials like half-price wine bottles on Wednesdays make it an attractive spot for midweek gatherings. Overall, Palo Santo offers a vibrant ambiance alongside creative, high-quality food, making it an excellent destination for catching up with friends in a stylish setting.
Here's what people think of Palo Santo
As of recent, Palo Santo holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1041 reviews.
Reviewers of Palo Santo consistently praise the restaurant's vibrant atmosphere and visually stunning presentation. Positive feedback focuses on the quality and creativity of key dishes such as the mussels with broth, whole roasted cauliflower, sea bass with sunchoke puree, and unique dessert creations like the chocolate bomb with red beet ice cream. The professional and charming service team, along with the appealing rooftop bar and city views, further enhance guests' dining experiences. Patrons also appreciate the midweek wine specials that provide great value. On the downside, some reviewers feel the food can lean towards milder, less authentic Mexican flavors, possibly to cater to broader palates, resulting in a slight loss of the traditional boldness expected in Mexican cuisine. Certain dishes like the shrimp and octopus were described as somewhat lackluster or generic in flavor. Despite these critiques, most diners conclude that the combination of ambiance, inventive dishes, and quality service makes Palo Santo a compelling choice. The overall impression is a trendy spot with both strengths in atmosphere and culinary artistry, though with room to deepen flavor authenticity.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Laura Orth
Food was beautiful and delicious in the restaurant. The rooftop has definitely more of a club vibe, not an outdoor dining dinner vibe. The kitchen staff had great service, the bar missed some communication. We weren’t able to order all of the drinks we wanted to enjoy with our dinner.
Vinay Mehta
Google maps warns you... destination on the right, except all you see is an office building hiding behind an iron gate that ICE would be proud off. As you slow to a crawl, pissing off a line of cars behind you that are waiting for you to make a choice you finally spy, out of the corner out of your eye, Palo Santo parking ahead!!!. Turn into an office park parking lot, the attendant hands you a QR code that as you later find out opens up a secret gate, down concrete stairs that takes you to the rear of what seems like a construction company. So much mystery and all we have done is park!!! Inside Palo Santo is what you might imagine an explorer entering an Incan temple. In a space framed by the heaviest black out curtains that soar up 50 feet is a dimly lit reception desk. A disembodied, not unfriendly, woman's voice verified our reservation. A quick rustle and we are ushered past the black curtain into a steel cavern with minimalist decor but whimsical lighting that whisky you away from whatever was outside. Ablong bar is at one end. The kitchen at the other. And that is where the magic happened!! The food is incredible. Vibrant, flavorful, bursting with both care and elegance. Like if a village mama cooked for a king!!! Get the shrimp get the cauliflower get the marrow. Get it all. Eat with abandon. Ask for more bread to sop up the sauce that will enchant you. The menu works as a whole. Steak. Lamb. Shrimp. Tacos. Mushroom rice. Something for everyone, but yet u can tell that each dish has been thoughtfully constructed but in a way to maximize flavor and blow you away!!! Eating here is a feeling. The taste is exceptional but only half the story. It is a visual feast. Pile on and dive deep. I will eat here many many MANY times again
Neven Vaduthala
I went here to catch up with a mutual friend. He was new to Atlanta (I know this is in Marietta but still) and mentioned a rooftop bar, so I suggested this. Immediately, I was amazed with the atmosphere. It was very classy-esque (I mean that as it is upscale but still provides the ambiance of casualness). The wait staff is great, they're all very nice. I have no complaints. The drinks were good. Nothing extraordinary, but they were standard. And standard is never a bad thing. I had the Paloma and it was fruity, tart, sweet with the right level of alcohol strength. Would recommend. The food I think took the headline. I had the spicy salmon crispy rice and it was some of the BEST food I had. Main complaint was the portion size. It was very small and overcharged for what was given. But the view of the city is beautiful. I really did feel like I was on vacation, and forgot I had work the next day! There apparently also have a DJ on the weekends, but I came here on a Wednesday so I cannot speak on that. Overall, the main headline is the atmosphere. That is the selling point. Which is not a bad thing, but it causes the other factors of the place to be overlooked. 8/10 Would 100% come again
Christian C
Beyond amazing establishment from the ambience, the service and the highlight of the show…..THE FOOD!! 🔥🔥🔥 We ordered the Steak Tartar, Las Bravas, Dry Aged Duck Breast, Mushroom Rice w Octopus added, Pork Belly and the Chilean Sea Bass. Major compliments to the Chef because every single dish did NOT disappoint! There was no need for to go boxes as we cleaned out all the plates. Our waitress Isabella was such a sweet heart and plays a significant factor for why we will be returning, thank you Isabella! Palo Santo, be prepared for our next visit because I will be ordering the 32oz Bone-in Prime Ribeye amongst other dishes and you shall witness magic happen when we devour it all. Thank you for making my 41st B-Day a special one!
KLove Food
Nice restaurant. Food was good and different. The guacamole was a little salty but was able to take that off my check. But overall tasty food. Sat at the bar so no wait. But reservations maybe needed on weekends. They have a rooftop too.
How to reach Palo Santo
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Why Palo Santo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Palo Santo with your friends?
Gathering at Palo Santo is an exceptional choice when you want to enjoy quality time with friends or family. Rated 4.3 stars from over 1,000 reviews, this venue strikes the ideal balance between comfort, style, and a lively atmosphere that suits group meetups perfectly. Whether you are looking to catch up over delicious food, relax in a chic environment, or explore unique experiences together, Palo Santo delivers on all fronts. The staff are highly praised for their warm hospitality and attention to detail, making every visit feel personalized and welcoming. Its excellent location, close to vibrant neighborhoods and local attractions, creates abundant opportunities for day-to-night storytelling and adventure. In addition to the inviting ambiance, Palo Santo offers spacious areas and a comfortable setting where groups can share laughs and make memories without feeling cramped or rushed. This combination of a stylish venue, accommodating service, and social vibes makes it an unbeatable spot for rallying with your friends.
What activities does Palo Santo offer for groups?
Palo Santo is more than just a place to eat or stay — it offers a rich palette of activities designed to engage groups and keep everyone entertained. First, the rooftop pool invites guests to unwind together while enjoying panoramic views and a refreshing swim. This feature turns into a social hub, perfect for both daytime relaxation and casual evening hangs when the city lights begin to twinkle. For dining, the restaurant serves a creative menu inspired by Mexican cuisine, featuring signature dishes like mushroom rice styled after paella, slow-roasted cauliflower, and prime cuts of beef that appeal to diverse palates. Sharing these flavorful plates is an interactive experience that encourages conversation and collective enjoyment. Beyond dining and lounging, Palo Santo’s proximity to parks and walking neighborhoods means groups can easily take scenic strolls, explore nearby shops, or enjoy a quick coffee break outdoors. Additionally, the hotel staff often go beyond expectations with thoughtful recommendations and help arranging local transportation or tours, making group outings seamless and fun. From swimming and eating to local exploration, Palo Santo offers multiple avenues for group bonding.
Why is Palo Santo perfect for social meetups?
Several key features make Palo Santo an ideal venue for social gatherings. The spacious and tastefully designed rooms accommodate groups with ease, providing comfort without sacrificing style. Many guests appreciate the private balconies and well-appointed bathrooms, which add a touch of luxury to their stay. The food experience is also a standout, with sharing-friendly dishes that encourage conversational dining and lively interactions. The attentive and friendly staff elevate the experience by anticipating guest needs and fostering a welcoming environment, which is crucial for stress-free socializing. Importantly, the venue’s location in a safe, vibrant neighborhood dotted with other bars, ice cream parlors, and restaurants means that groups can effortlessly extend their meetups beyond Palo Santo’s walls if they want to explore the nightlife or enjoy other local gems. These elements combine to create an environment designed for connection and celebration, making Palo Santo the perfect backdrop for memorable group events.
How does the food at Palo Santo cater to groups?
Food at Palo Santo is thoughtfully curated to encourage sharing and communal enjoyment, vital for group dining experiences. The menu blends familiar and innovative Mexican flavors with elegance, offering dishes that look as attractive as they taste. For instance, groups can share a whole head of cauliflower slow-roasted over a wood fire, paired with miso caramel—a dish designed to be attacked and savored together. Meat lovers find delight in the carne asada with rare seared hanger steak and bone marrow, which also serves as a centerpiece for group tables. The creativity continues with dishes like mushroom rice in the style of paella, which is creamy and texturally interesting, perfect for sharing. While some reviews note a mild flavor profile intended to suit a range of tastes, this subtlety can be an advantage for groups with varied preferences, including those less accustomed to strong spices. Overall, the dining experience is interactive and engaging, making meals at Palo Santo an enjoyable communal event where friends can talk, taste, and explore flavors side by side.
What makes the atmosphere at Palo Santo unique for meetups?
Palo Santo’s ambiance is a key factor in its appeal for hosting groups. The design melds modern aesthetics with cozy touches to create a space that feels vibrant yet intimate. The outdoor garden dining area provides a refreshing natural element, bringing a calm yet lively environment where groups can enjoy conversations under open skies. Indoors, the décor reflects a chic urban vibe that suits a variety of social occasions, from casual catch-ups to celebratory gatherings. The rooftop pool adds an exclusive feel, especially during warm evenings when the setting sun and cityscape create a memorable backdrop. Staff consistently receive high marks for their professionalism and friendliness, which enhances the atmosphere by cultivating a relaxed and welcoming spirit. The venue’s bustling yet safe street location means there’s always energy and life nearby, further boosting the social vibe without overwhelming guests. This blend of style, comfort, and lively surroundings positions Palo Santo as a truly unique place to rally with friends.
How accessible and convenient is Palo Santo for group outings?
One of Palo Santo’s strong suits is its superb location, making logistics simple for groups. Positioned in a lively neighborhood, it boasts easy access to public transportation, local shops, cafes, and nightlife venues, providing many options for extending social plans. Guests commonly praise the helpfulness of the staff, who assist with booking local transport and providing tips for exploring the city, effectively taking the stress out of planning group outings. While some have noted minor issues like intermittent WiFi or noise from the busy street, these are minor compared to the overall convenience and vibrant surroundings. Early check-in options and spacious accommodations add to the stress-free group experience. Whether you want to start the day relaxing by the pool, enjoy a curated meal, or head out for local adventures, Palo Santo’s accessibility and service-oriented approach make it a flexible and reliable base for all types of group gatherings.
What nearby attractions complement a visit to Palo Santo?
Palo Santo benefits from being close to numerous attractions that enrich any group meetup. Walking around the neighborhood reveals an array of restaurants, bars, and charming parks perfect for a pre-meal stroll or a post-dinner wind-down. Notably, it’s near lively ice cream parlors and other local favorites, allowing groups to diversify their plans effortlessly. The hotel’s location also situates it within reach of cultural sites and artistic venues, adding an element of discovery to any stay. For groups interested in outdoor activities, nearby parks provide green spaces for informal picnics or light exercise, enhancing the social benefits of being outside together. This proximity to both urban excitement and relaxing spots makes Palo Santo not just a destination by itself, but part of a broader experience that can fill a full day or evening with shared moments and exploration.
Why do guests recommend Palo Santo for group stays despite some minor drawbacks?
While no place is perfect, Palo Santo’s many strengths outweigh minor critiques mentioned in reviews, such as fluctuating WiFi or some pool maintenance issues. Guests often praise the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff, who are noted for personal attention that makes visitors feel valued and supported. The cleanliness and spaciousness of rooms, combined with the quality of breakfast and the overall ambiance, contribute to a positive experience that leaves lasting impressions. Even occasional noise from the street is considered a reasonable trade-off for the vibrant location and excellent social setting. Many who have stayed here return or recommend the hotel precisely because of its unique atmosphere for groups, inclusive service, and convenient location. These factors combine to make Palo Santo a reliable and enjoyable venue for hosting memorable meetups with friends or family.