When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Poach Social
Why Poach Social is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Poach Social is a distinguished brunch and lunch restaurant located in Atlanta's vibrant Summerhill neighborhood, known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to meet up with friends. The venue boasts a stylishly open dining space with seating for 55 guests, complemented by a full-service juice and cocktail bar featuring bottomless mimosa specials on weekends. Founded by Brian Mitchell and Ronnie Marrow, Poach Social aims to reflect the diverse community around it, offering a menu that balances classic brunch favorites like eggs Benedict, French toast, biscuits and gravy, and shrimp and grits with unique touches inspired by Mitchell's Jamaican heritage. Its health-conscious approach combined with southern comfort food creates a versatile menu catering to varied tastes, ensuring every guest finds something enjoyable. Since reopening in Summerhill after overcoming a significant kitchen fire, the restaurant has expanded its food offerings with new items such as salmon polenta, SLT sandwiches, honey fire glazed shrimp, and weekend specials like lamb chops. Beyond food, Poach Social fosters a sense of community by creating an environment where people from different backgrounds can share experiences centered on delicious meals and convivial atmosphere, solidifying its place as a go-to gathering spot in Atlanta.
Here's what people think of Poach Social
As of recent, Poach Social holds a 4.7-star rating based on 631 reviews.
Reviews of Poach Social consistently highlight its exceptional food quality, diverse and thoughtfully curated menu, and the friendly, welcoming service that patrons frequently commend. Many positive reviews praise the restaurant's ability to blend classic brunch staples with innovative dishes, noting the remarkable consistency and flavor that keep guests returning. The cocktail and juice bar also receives positive remarks, especially the weekend bottomless mimosas which enhance the brunch experience. Patrons appreciate Poach Social's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, applauding the atmosphere as warm, stylish, and conducive to socializing. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers on occasional wait times during peak hours and limited seating, which can affect the dining experience. A few reviews mention the need for extended hours, as the current schedule is somewhat restrictive for those seeking brunch outside offered times. Despite minor critiques, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly favorable, with customers emphasizing the restaurantâs resilience and revitalized charm after reopening post fire-related closure. In sum, Poach Social is widely regarded as a compelling brunch destination that successfully combines quality cuisine, diversity, and community spirit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Toshma Graves
Was looking for a new brunch experience; love that its nestled conveniently in a little neighborhood. Free(but limited) parking lot, parking allowed on street. It was very busy on Sunday morning; limited service staff. The jerk egg rolls were everything đ Josie, my server, was amazing! VERY pleasant and offered great suggestions! Look for her winning personality when you go!
DâJillisser K
This neighborhood restaurant was the perfect spot for our friendsâ meetup. From the warm greeting at the door to our attentive waiter and the chefâs special touch in perfecting our dishesâit was a true mood booster! I loved the ambianceâcozy and homegrown with a hint of oasis vibes. We kicked things off with rounds of hot and iced coffee. While the drink menu had plenty of tempting options, we decided to keep it simple. At our serverâs suggestion, we started with the jerk rolls, and wowâthey were bursting with flavor and absolutely delicious. For my entrĂ©e, I ordered shrimp and grits with a side of fried chicken, and every bite was savory, satisfying, and filling. Around the table, we also enjoyed the salmon salad and a pasta dish, both of which earned rave reviews from my friends. Everyone left happy (and full), and Iâm already planning my next visit to try more of their breakfast menu. If youâre thinking of stopping by, donât hesitateâthis spot is worth it!
Empress NRG
At first, walking into this restaurant was a little intimidatingâwe werenât sure if weâd fit in with the atmosphere. But within moments, any hesitation melted away. The ambiance is absolutely breathtakingâgorgeous color scheme, thoughtfully chosen chairs and tables, and beautiful greenery throughout. Itâs the kind of place where you instantly feel inspired and at ease. We were seated right away, which was a pleasant surprise, and the neighborhood is charmingâdefinitely a great part of town. Our server was friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall warmth of the experience. As soon as I opened the menu, I had a good feeling. I ordered the avocado toast and the salmon eggs Benedictâand wow, I was not disappointed. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The fact that they offered vegetarian options was a huge plus, and itâs clear this place is thoughtful about catering to a variety of tastes. We did get the sense that people could tell we were from out of town, but that only seemed to add a little more kindness and grace to our interactions. As brunch transitioned into the afternoon, the crowd shifted to a younger, more vibrant energy, which gave the space a fun and lively vibe without feeling overwhelming. All in all, I absolutely loved everything about this place. From the decor to the service to the foodâit was just a really great experience. Iâll definitely be returning next time weâre in town, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable, feel-good meal.
Jacob Stone
The food is 11 out of 10âabsolutely incredibleâbut the front-of-house experience needs serious improvement, and expectations werenât communicated clearly. When we arrived, we were told the wait would be about 20 minutes. In reality, it was over an hour before we were seated at the bar to continue waiting, and nearly two hours before we were finally given a table. It seemed like seating wasnât based on any visible system or reservation list, but rather on who happened to be standing inside at the right time. This made the wait feel unpredictable and frustrating. Once we were seated, it took another 20 minutes to place our order, and then about 30 minutes for the food to arriveâa reasonable wait, and completely worth it once the dishes came out. We ordered the avocado salmon tower, shrimp and grits, and toast and chickenâall of them were phenomenal, easily some of the best food Iâve had in a long time. Highly recommend, but only if you have plenty of time. Budget extra hours, not minutesâbecause while the food is unforgettable, the experience around it still has some catching up to do.
B âRealâ
Weâre so glad we stumbled upon Poach Social after walking out of our original brunch spot, what a find! From start to finish, the experience was fantastic. Even without a reservation, we were seated quickly and warmly welcomed. Our server, Nikki, was exceptional, trust her recommendations! Every dish was amazing. This spot is definitely going on my must-visit list for friends and family visiting Atlanta. Canât wait to go back! (forgot to get a photo of the salmon and polenta )
How to reach Poach Social
None
Website: None
Why Poach Social may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Poach Social with your friends? Poach Social, nestled in Atlanta's charming Summerhill neighborhood, is more than just a brunch spotâit's a vibrant gathering hub where friends can reconnect over thoughtfully crafted food and a welcoming atmosphere. The place radiates a cozy, stylish vibe complemented by velvet chairs and an inviting patio overlooking a quiet residential street, which makes conversations flow naturally and comfortably. Whether youâre meeting old friends, celebrating a special moment, or simply catching up, the warm hospitality and attentive service make everyone feel at home. The menu brilliantly balances classic southern brunch staples like shrimp and grits with creative dishes such as watermelon and goat cheese salad, ensuring a range of flavors to please diverse palates. Plus, their standout avocado toast and signature One Love hibiscus drink add a refreshing twist to your meal, making the dining experience memorable. The restaurantâs commitment to quality and community fosters an authentic ambiance, ideal for meaningful social time. Poach Social provides not just a meal, but an experience that encourages connection, celebration, and relaxation, making it a perfect rallying point for any group.
What activities and experiences make Poach Social ideal for group meetups? At Poach Social, the focus is on creating a space where socializing feels effortless and delightful. Beyond serving delicious food, the restaurantâs layout â with elegant velvet seating and a blend of indoor charm plus patio dining â offers versatile settings for groups of friends or family. The outdoor patio becomes a sociable spot during warmer months, perfect for enjoying fresh air along with your meal. Indoors, the stylish dĂ©cor and open floor plan foster a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere where conversations flow uninhibited. Additionally, the food menu itself invites sharing and exploration; the range from classic eggs Benedict to innovative sandwiches featuring egg, bacon, and tomato jam allows groups to sample multiple dishes together. Poach Social also emphasizes friendly, personalized service, which enhances the group experience by making everyone feel welcomed and cared for. Whether a casual brunch, a birthday celebration, or a relaxed weekend gathering, the restaurantâs thoughtful combination of environment, cuisine, and service ensures a rewarding and enjoyable group outing.
What delicious dishes can groups expect to enjoy at Poach Social? The menu at Poach Social is celebrated for bringing both comfort and creativity to the table, appealing to groups with diverse tastes. Classic brunch lovers can delight in dishes such as shrimp and grits, cheesy eggs Benedict, and brioche French toast drizzled with lemon and fresh blueberriesâperfect for sharing or individual enjoyment. Those seeking something novel might opt for the vibrant watermelon and goat cheese salad, which blends farro and quinoa into a refreshing, wholesome plate. Signature offerings like the fried chicken sandwich on a brioche bun offer hearty, satisfying flavors that tend to win the crowdâs favor. The avocado toast, often praised for its perfectly toasted bread and fresh toppings, is an ideal lighter option or accompaniment to other plates. Sweet tooths will also find comfort in selections such as the French toast, although some prefer to balance sweetness with savory. Drinks aren't left behind: the "One Love" Jamaican-style sorrel hibiscus drink, subtly spiced with ginger, is a hit among patrons and a great complement to the meal, providing a unique taste that sparks conversation and enjoyment throughout the table.
How does Poach Socialâs atmosphere enhance the group dining experience? The ambiance at Poach Social plays a crucial role in making it a superb venue for group gatherings. Located in a repurposed historic neighborhood grocery store, the restaurant combines nostalgia with a contemporary aesthetic, giving the space unique character and charm. The combination of cozy velvet chairs, bright natural lighting, and an open floor plan creates an environment that is both stylish and comfortableâideal for groups to linger and chat. The front patio adds a relaxed outdoor option, allowing your party to enjoy fresh air in a quiet area away from the city bustle. The staffâs attentive and friendly service further enriches the experience by ensuring everyoneâs needs are met promptly, helping groups feel special and cared for. Altogether, this blend of thoughtful design and hospitality fosters a welcoming vibe that encourages guests to relax, share stories, and deepen their connections over great food.
What makes Poach Social stand out in Atlantaâs brunch scene? Poach Social has rapidly established itself as a standout destination in Atlanta due to its commitment to quality, diversity, and genuine community engagement. Located in the revitalized Summerhill neighborhood, the eatery embraces both its roots and the evolving culture around it, reflected in its menu and ethos. The ownersâ personal connection to the industry and neighborhood gives the restaurant an authentic spiritâone aimed at offering fresh, healthy, and consistently excellent food that celebrates southern classics while introducing global flavors. The high praise for signature dishes like avocado toast and unique beverages such as the Jamaican-inspired sorrel drink solidifies its reputation. Beyond the food, its polished yet cozy ambiance and dedicated customer service create an experience that feels both premium and inclusive. For those seeking a reliable, friendly place where brunch becomes an event to remember with friends and family, Poach Social represents an outstanding choice within Atlantaâs competitive dining landscape, earning loyal patrons and rave reviews alike.