When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Public House 28
Why Public House 28 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Public House 28 is a vibrant pub and dining spot located in the Westside Atlanta neighborhood of Riverside. Named after the historic Atlanta Fire Station 28, affectionately known as “The Pride Of Riverside,” this establishment carries forward the tradition of being a community hub. It offers a welcoming atmosphere suitable for families and friends alike, open for both lunch and dinner. The venue features a full bar that showcases local craft beers and expertly crafted custom drinks emphasizing simplicity and quality. Public House 28 strives to be the neighborhood gathering place where locals can enjoy quality food and drinks in a relaxed setting. The menu includes a wide range of offerings, from hearty burgers like the Public House Burger and Pub28 Smash Burger to satisfying sandwiches such as the Blackened Chicken Sandwich and Club Sandwich, along with tasty appetizers like rosemary chicken skewers and wings in various sauces. Its strategic position and family-friendly environment make it an ideal location to meet up with friends for casual dining or to unwind after work. The experienced local owners, who bring over five decades of restaurant expertise, ensure the community receives a consistently great experience, reinforcing Public House 28’s role as a cornerstone of the neighborhood.
Here's what people think of Public House 28
As of recent, Public House 28 holds a 4.5-star rating based on 418 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly praise Public House 28 for its welcoming atmosphere and quality food. Many highlight the burger options, with particular mention of the caprese and smash burgers as some of the best in the area. Patrons also appreciate the thoughtfully made sauces and a well-curated drink menu featuring local craft beers. The family-friendly vibe and attentive service contribute to a positive overall dining experience. Positive comments often focus on the warmth of the staff, accommodating nature toward guests, and reasonably priced menu items that offer substantial value. However, there are some critiques concerning certain menu items lacking bold flavor, such as a bean burger described as bland by a few reviewers. A small minority find the atmosphere might not meet all expectations or desire more seasoning variety. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the consensus remains that Public House 28 delivers consistent quality food and a pleasant environment. This balance of favorable feedback and constructive criticism reflects a reliable neighborhood pub that is continuously engaged in enhancing customer satisfaction.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Capers
Food was good. 4/5, but that could be operator error on reading the menu. There were a lot of good looking items on the menu, I just wasn’t “wowed” by my meal. Still good. Good enough that I will be back! Cool environment. Kind of tucked away. Felt like a sports bar. Probably a great spot to watch a game!
Joe Sumpter
Delicious food and very cool atmosphere. Chef Jodie does an amazing job with the menu delivering fresh and tasty entrees quickly. We grabbed brunch on a Saturday with chicken +waffles and were not disappointed. Definitely recommended!!
David Liebler
A great selection of burgers and sandwiches on the menu, including an amazing caprese burger. One of the best burgers I’ve had in quite a while. Customer service was strong and prices are very reasonable. Great place to have a meal or drinks to meet with friends or watch a game.
Mark Wells
I ordered the tomato basil chicken and wow. It came with Brussel sprouts. Exceptional taste. I do not like Brussel sprouts. The waitress asked if Brussel sprouts would be ok as the side. I asked how are those cooked. She told me and I said I would try them. I am sooo glad I did. I now like Brussel sprouts ( there ). Ha. I met the chef and he is great and a great chef at that. Waitress was awesome and very helpful. I will be back again. Thank you Public House 28.
Robby Wiley
Salmon BLT.....I drive across town just for it! I'm not even sure what else is on the menu, but I'm sure everything on the menu is awesome. Go to their website, I bet you'll find something you'd like, probably a lot. Awesome draft beers too! I try different ones every time. There agIn, you're bound to find one that suits you. If you're thinking about choosing Public House 28, do it, you'll be glad you did.
How to reach Public House 28
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Why Public House 28 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Public House 28 with your friends? If you’re looking for a welcoming neighborhood spot in Atlanta’s Westside Riverside area that brings together quality food, craft drinks, and a warm communal atmosphere, Public House 28 is a standout choice. This full-service, family-friendly pub doesn’t just offer a meal or a drink; it offers a place to connect and unwind. The name itself honors Atlanta Fire Station 28, a longtime local community pillar, signaling the establishment’s deep roots and commitment to neighborhood spirit. Whether you gather for lunch, dinner, or just to relax over locally brewed craft beers or custom cocktails, you find yourself in a space thoughtfully designed for both convivial socializing and comfortable dining. The owners—experienced local restaurateurs—bring over 50 years of combined expertise, ensuring that service, ambiance, and culinary quality consistently impress. For friends and family meetups, it’s a place where everyone from kids to adults finds something inviting, making it a natural rally point to share memorable times together in a pub setting that feels both new and authentically local.
What activities and experiences make Public House 28 perfect for group meetups? This venue offers a variety of reasons to bring your crew. First, it’s a full-service dining establishment open for both lunch and dinner, accommodating casual day gatherings or lively evening outings. The menu is crafted with care, featuring standout dishes like expertly made burgers and sandwiches, including an often-praised Caprese burger and exceptional fried chicken sandwiches. These entrées are complemented by house-made sauces and fresh ingredients, elevating the usual pub fare to a level that satisfies diverse tastes. The full bar features local craft brews and custom drinks, appealing to beer enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. The combination of a well-curated drink list and quality food makes it easy to linger and socialize over bites and sips. Additionally, its family-friendly policy means you can bring children along, making it an ideal venue whether your meetup includes extended family or just friends. The welcoming staff and neighborhood vibe ensure consistent good service and a relaxing ambiance, great for unwinding or lively discussions.
Why is Public House 28 considered a community hub? The location itself holds meaningful historical and cultural significance as it draws inspiration from the longstanding service of Atlanta Fire Station 28—a neighborhood mainstay since 1954. This connection reflects the owners’ vision of Public House 28 as more than just a restaurant; it’s meant to be a gathering place where locals feel at home. By providing a spot that serves quality food and drinks in a family-friendly environment, it becomes a nucleus for social interaction within Riverside and nearby neighborhoods such as Whittier Mill, Bolton, and Hills Park. Whether you want a quiet lunch with friends or a place to relax after work, the pub offers both—it’s a space that supports a range of social occasions seamlessly. The owners’ deep ties to the community, combined with their passion for hospitality, nurture an inviting atmosphere where everyone from longtime residents to newcomers can connect.
What specific features support group gatherings at Public House 28? The layout and services are designed to accommodate groups comfortably. The combination of indoor seating with a casual yet polished vibe encourages conversation and shared experiences. The bar is equipped to serve crafted cocktails and an extensive selection of local brews, perfect for groups with varied drink preferences. Additionally, offering lunch and dinner ensures flexibility for meetups at different times of day, from casual brunch-style gatherings to full evening meals. The attentive service further enhances group experiences by ensuring that orders, special requests, and any celebrations are handled smoothly. Moreover, the menu caters to different dietary preferences, with options ranging from hearty meat dishes to plant-forward choices, letting every group member find something they enjoy.
How does Public House 28’s culinary and beverage offerings enhance socializing? The hallmark of the pub is its commitment to quality and simplicity. Food is made with fresh ingredients and a focus on classic pub favorites done exceptionally well. This approach allows the flavors to shine without overwhelming complexity, making sharing dishes among friends or family appealing and easy. The house-made sauces and chef-driven recipes give the food a unique character that invites repeat visits. On the beverage side, the bar’s dedication to featuring local craft beers connects patrons to the surrounding community’s brewing culture. Custom cocktails designed with an eye for balance and flavor add another layer of enjoyment, supporting both casual sip sessions and festive gatherings. The combination of satisfying food and well-made drinks naturally fosters a joyful ambiance in which conversation flows freely and connections deepen.
Why is Public House 28 a family-friendly venue for meetups? Unlike many pubs that cater primarily to adult crowds, Public House 28 welcomes families, ensuring that meetups with children involved are just as comfortable and enjoyable. The environment balances a casual pub feel with a space that parents can trust and kids will enjoy. Opening for both lunch and dinner offers families flexibility around meal times and routines. The menu includes items appealing to younger palates and those with different dietary needs, making it convenient to bring everyone together without compromise. Beyond the food and drink, the staff’s attentiveness and the overall vibe are geared to create a pleasant experience for all ages, supporting relaxed, inclusive gatherings.
How does the history and branding of Public House 28 enrich the meetup experience? Naming the restaurant after a local fire station honors the community’s past and ongoing service, rooting the pub firmly within its neighborhood identity. This gives guests a sense of belonging and connection each time they visit, as they dine in a place dedicated to neighborhood pride. The owners’ approach reflects a respect for the traditional “public house” concept—a centuries-old neighborhood gathering spot—updated to fit contemporary tastes and community values. This blend of history and modern hospitality creates an authentic yet fresh environment. It adds a meaningful dimension to meetups here, as guests aren’t just eating out but participating in a local tradition of gathering, sharing, and community building.
What makes the service and atmosphere at Public House 28 stand out for groups? With over five decades of combined restaurant experience behind the owners, you can expect professional, welcoming service tailored to making each visit memorable. Reviewers and regulars note that staff maintain a friendly, attentive demeanor that enhances the overall experience. The ambiance is casual yet refined, balancing the buzz of a busy pub with enough comfort that you want to stay. This supports group meetups by reducing stress over logistics and turning the focus onto enjoying food, drinks, and company. Whether it’s a casual night out, a celebratory dinner, or a weekend family gathering, the service team at Public House 28 understands how to keep groups coordinated and happy.
In sum, Public House 28 serves as a prime destination for meetups of friends and family looking to enjoy quality food, local craft brews, custom cocktails, and a genuinely neighborly atmosphere in one of Atlanta’s historic neighborhoods. Its thoughtful blend of community spirit, culinary care, and attentive service makes it an ideal setting where connection and enjoyment come naturally. Whether sharing a meal, raising a glass, or simply spending time together, Public House 28 offers everything a group could want in a modern pub with heart.