When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Politan Row at Colony Square
Why Politan Row at Colony Square is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Politan Row at Colony Square stands out as a vibrant, talent-driven food hall located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta. Spanning 20,000 square feet, this expansive culinary destination features twelve independent restaurant concepts that showcase a thoughtfully curated mix of local food and beverage talent. Designed as a communal space, Politan Row offers a variety of open-air dining areas where groups of friends can gather to enjoy an eclectic selection of cuisines, ranging from fast casual Indian fare at Sahirah Kebab and Curry to gourmet dessert creations at Fit For a Cookie. Beyond food, visitors can indulge in a best-in-class beverage experience at Bar Politan, which boasts a unique wine list and both classic and inventive cocktails, perfect for sipping while exploring the various vendors. The venue also houses a hidden cocktail lounge, Jojo’s Beloved, a secluded spot with an intimate ambiance and a stylish atmosphere inspired by disco and glam eras, ideal for a low-pressure date or an evening gathering. The food hall is open daily from 11 am to 10 pm (with extended hours on weekends), and offers perks such as two-hour parking validation. Its design-forward approach and lively atmosphere have positioned Politan Row as a cultural nexus and a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors looking to connect over exceptional food and drink in a welcoming setting.
Here's what people think of Politan Row at Colony Square
As of recent, Politan Row at Colony Square holds a 4.5-star rating based on 962 reviews.
User reviews consistently underscore Politan Row's exceptional variety and quality of food choices, praising its status as one of Atlanta's best dining spots. Many visitors highlighted the diverse culinary options available, noting standouts such as the large portions of Jamaican oxtail and the fast-casual Indian dishes, which offer authentic flavors. The spaciousness and vibrant energy of the food hall make it a great place for casual meetups, dates, or outings with colleagues. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and accommodating service, particularly at the bar, and appreciate the convenience of multiple gourmet options under one roof connected to nearby accommodations like the Starling Hotel. On the downside, some reviewers pointed out inconsistencies in service quality across different vendors and at peak times, mentioning that certain booths experienced delays or varying levels of attentiveness. Others noted that the large-scale food hall environment can sometimes be noisy or crowded, which might not suit those seeking a quieter dining experience. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly favorable, with patrons celebrating Politan Row as a top-tier, design-forward food hall that successfully fosters community and culinary exploration in Midtown Atlanta.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
MrsH
It Was our first time. It was family friendly but a lounge vibe with a DJ. There was artist and a couple of other vendors. Open seating inside and outside. The bar is positioned the center. Very cool, very trendy vibe. They was a private event in a section, so I'm not sure if the DJ was there for them or if they're usually there. Several different food options so everyone may have a different experience. All of them seemed to be providing good customer service. The prices were pretty reasonable ranging from $10-$20. Outdoor seating has fire pits. There are stores open during day hours. People walking dogs and just hanging out. Felt very comfortable and welcomed.
Hoyt Phillips
A fun place to relax and eat. It’s one large space with about 12 vendors to choose from. There is plenty of seating inside or outside. And there is a large bar with seating in the middle. There is lively music playing but you can still have a conversation with your table mates. We had a really nice time. I would recommend the Jamaican place in the back right corner. The food was amazing. Overall a nice place with a cool vibe. I would definitely go again.
Ramona Fair
This is a great place, so many options to delight all appetites. It's spacious and I live the lighting decor. The entry to the bathrooms is impressive. There was an art pop throughout on the Friday night, there was dancing and candle making class. In certain areas, it's harder to hear. It's a bit tricky to locate. I'll say the crowd is from late twenties to fifties. Definitely a vibe. Check it out.
HurricaneK 04
On the first Friday of the month they have events my friend and I painted and made candles for only the low cost of the ticket $25.00. Parking was a breeze since you can pay before you leave
Pamela The Islandgirl
Perfectly wordly and at ease with global cultures. A foodies delight! Even the name, Politan, means “of the people,” which i think is so appropriate because this upward mobile food court captures a sense of community and oozes with hospitality. Also, I like this name because it's a nod, a notion, that speaks to, lures, and satisfies the "cosmopolitan" set. Meaning, those of us that possess a flexible food sense that, may be a touch more refined ( if you will), Those of us that explore and eat out a lot actually help to shape what defines " the modern cosmopolitan". So it was easy to see how this artfully-crafted row of vendors paired well with the idea of gathering in a community to experience culinary diversity. Just saying, I can embrace an eclectic food experience when I want to and Colony Square is just the place to get it. Clean as a whistle indoors with wonderful seating options inside and out. A midtown- downtown, Atlanta must visit.
How to reach Politan Row at Colony Square
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Why Politan Row at Colony Square may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Politan Row at Colony Square with your friends? Because it offers an unmatched atmosphere that perfectly combines great food, vibrant social vibes, and flexible spaces, making it the ultimate destination for group gatherings. Nestled in Midtown Atlanta, Politan Row provides an eclectic food hall experience that appeals to every palate, featuring 12 diverse food vendors under one elegant roof. This means every friend in your group—whether craving Caribbean, Indian, Italian, or Vietnamese dishes—will find something to enjoy, creating a shared culinary adventure. Beyond the food, Politan Row’s layout supports both laid-back mingling and special celebrations, enhanced by its cocktail bar, hidden ’70s-themed cocktail lounge, and private event spaces. The mix of open seating inside and al fresco options outside means your group can adapt the vibe to suit any occasion, from casual hangouts to memorable nights out. With an overall rating of 4.5 from nearly a thousand reviews, it’s clear that Politan Row consistently delivers a satisfying experience that fosters connection through food and ambiance, making it a natural rallying point for friends and family alike.
What kinds of dining and drinking activities make Politan Row perfect for group meetups? At the core, Politan Row’s major draw is its food hall offering. With 12 different culinary vendors, your group can enjoy a smorgasbord of flavors all in one place without the hassle of splitting up. Whether your friends want to savor spicy Thai Drunken Noodles, sample Caribbean delights, or enjoy vegan-friendly options, there is something for everyone’s tastes. This diversity allows for easy sharing and comparing of dishes, which inherently encourages interaction and lively conversation. Those who prefer drinks will appreciate the main cocktail bar serving finely crafted cocktails alongside the hidden JoJo’s Beloved Cocktail Lounge, a cozy spot with a retro ’70s ambiance and DJ tunes—perfect for groups that want to pair dinner with a festive nightcap. The presence of a private event space further enables groups to host celebrations or parties with a dedicated area, ensuring privacy while still taking advantage of the delectable food and drink offerings.
How is the atmosphere at Politan Row conducive to socializing and group energy? The setting strikes a rare balance between casual comfort and design-forward sophistication, which appeals to a wide spectrum of groups, from families to young professionals. With both indoor and outdoor seating available, your group can enjoy the buzzing lounge vibe year-round, influenced by music and artistic elements sprinkled throughout the space. The presence of a DJ enhances the social energy, creating an elevated but not overpowering soundtrack for meetups. The design-led interiors maintain elegance without feeling intimidating, encouraging relaxed conversations around shared plates and cocktails. Open seating arrangements make it easy for groups to span out or huddle closely, depending on their preference, while various seating types—from communal tables to more intimate nooks—cater to different group sizes and dynamics. This versatility ensures your gathering flows smoothly, whether it’s a large birthday dinner or an informal friends’ catch-up.
What additional experiences and conveniences elevate Politan Row as a meetup hub? Politan Row stands out due to its thoughtful curation beyond just food and drinks. For instance, the Tasting Table offers a premium experience with reserved seating and a prix fixe tasting menu curated across various vendors, which is excellent for groups wanting to indulge in a guided culinary journey. This option also provides dedicated waiter service, enhancing the ease and comfort of group dining. Politan Row’s location within Colony Square adds convenience, as it’s situated in a lively Midtown district with great accessibility and neighboring restaurants for extended evenings. Social media engagement, such as their encouragement to tag photos on Instagram, fosters a sense of community and shared memory-making among visitors. Moreover, the venue’s commitment to culinary excellence and diverse offerings has earned it high praise from respected food critics and publications, instilling confidence that every gathering will exceed expectations.
Why is Politan Row a top choice for food lovers hosting group events? The hallmark of Politan Row is its award-winning status as one of the best food halls in America, consistently praised for the eclectic mix of global flavors under one roof. This recognition comes from renowned voices in the food industry, highlighting the quality and creativity behind each vendor’s menu. For food lovers, this means exploration and discovery are central to the experience—ideal for groups eager to share and savor new tastes together. Unlike traditional restaurants where choices are limited to a single cuisine, Politan Row’s multi-vendor approach transforms your meetup into a taste tour, supporting dietary preferences and adventurous appetites alike. Whether you prefer casual bites or a more curated tasting experience, Politan Row adapts seamlessly. The variety also caters well to groups with differing budgets and dining styles, making it economic and inclusive without sacrificing quality.
What is the accessibility and location advantage of Politan Row at Colony Square? Located at 1197 Peachtree St NE, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA, Politan Row benefits from its prime Midtown Atlanta position, a vibrant hub known for its walkability and transportation options. This makes it easy for friends and family coming from various parts of the city to converge. Colony Square itself is a mixed-use development that offers ample parking and transit access, reducing the logistical hassle often associated with urban meetups. The area around Politan Row is lively, with plenty of neighboring bars and restaurants, allowing groups to extend their outings effortlessly. Whether your group prefers to start the evening with drinks elsewhere or cap it off with dessert at another local hotspot, the location supports a flexible and adventurous night out.
How does Politan Row cater to different occasions and group sizes? Politan Row’s flexible layout and comprehensive amenities make it suitable for everything from casual meetups to special celebrations. The private event space allows larger groups to have dedicated quarters that offer privacy while still enjoying the vibrant food hall atmosphere. For smaller groups or intimate gatherings, open seating provides more informal, spontaneous experiences. The versatility in seating, combined with the diverse culinary options and cocktails, means groups can easily scale their experience up or down depending on the occasion, budget, or mood. The option to reserve the Tasting Table also appeals to those looking for a more curated, special night out. This flexibility ensures that Politan Row can accommodate birthdays, reunions, work socials, or simple get-togethers with equal ease and style.
What makes Politan Row’s service and user experience stand out for group visits? Guests repeatedly highlight the attentive service, especially when opting for the prix fixe tasting menus with dedicated waitstaff, which enhances group dining ease by removing ordering stress and ensuring timely delivery of courses. Even in the bustling food hall setting, the staff manages to maintain a personalized and friendly atmosphere that elevates the social experience. The venue also maintains a clean and attractive environment, which can be important for groups that want a comfortable, stylish place to spend several hours. Additionally, Politan Row embraces technology and social media interaction, encouraging guests to share their experiences online, which adds a fun, commemorative dimension to visits with friends or family. This modern, guest-focused approach reflects Politan Row’s commitment to creating a memorable and seamless group experience from arrival to departure.
In conclusion, Politan Row at Colony Square offers an exceptional group meetup venue thanks to its diverse culinary offerings, inviting atmosphere, convenient Midtown location, and flexible event spaces. Whether you want a casual lunch, an elegant tasting dinner, or a lively night of cocktails and music, this celebrated food hall caters to every type of gathering with ease and style. Its reputation as one of America’s best food halls, combined with thoughtful amenities and a vibrant social vibe, makes it a top recommendation for rallying your friends or family in Atlanta.