When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Spiedo
Why Spiedo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Spiedo is a renowned restaurant located in the heart of Sydney, Australia, at Westfield Sydney Level 6 on 188 Pitt Street. It offers an exceptional dining experience centered around traditional Italian regional cuisine, with a particular focus on the signature dish 'Spiedo Bresciano'—a rotisserie method of spit-roasting meats such as quail, duck leg, pork scotch fillet, and pork ribs. The meats are carefully basted over five hours with sage and butter, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth flavors, served alongside soft polenta. This dedication to quality and traditional preparation highlights the restaurant's commitment to simple yet flavorful Italian cooking. The kitchen is led by Italian-born Head Chef Fulvio Lancione, partnered with Alessandro Pavoni, whose passion and inspiration come from his grandmother and esteemed Italian pastry chef Iginio Massari. Open daily from 7:30 am to 11:00 pm, Spiedo provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for meeting friends or enjoying a relaxed meal. Guests can appreciate expert service headed by Restaurant Manager Joshua Luff, who brings experience from Sydney’s prestigious Park Hyatt. The combination of genuine Italian flavors, friendly service, and convenient central location makes Spiedo a must-visit spot for casual dining or special gatherings in Sydney’s CBD.
Here's what people think of Spiedo
As of recent, Spiedo holds a 4.7-star rating based on 209 reviews.
Customer reviews for Spiedo are overwhelmingly positive, reflecting its high rating of 4.7 from 209 reviews. Many patrons praise the quality and authenticity of the food, particularly highlighting the slow-roasted meats and generous portions that faithfully capture traditional Italian flavors. Positive reviews consistently mention the expert basting method, which makes the dishes exceptionally tender and flavorful, and the welcoming, attentive service from the staff. The ambiance of the restaurant is often described as comfortable and stylish, conducive to relaxed social dining experiences with friends or family. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews note occasional delays during busy hours and higher price points compared to casual eateries. A few customers have also mentioned the restaurant can get quite busy, making advanced bookings recommended. Overall, feedback is strong on the consistency of taste and the culinary expertise of the kitchen team. In conclusion, Spiedo maintains an excellent reputation as a prime destination for lovers of Italian cuisine in Sydney, balancing traditional quality with modern dining convenience and a well-managed customer experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
CCG G
Was in Ann Arbor for 3 days and ate here twice- that’s how good it is! This place completely blew us away. My brother and I come from NYC so we’re used to amazing food and the food we had at Spiedo was some of the best we’ve ever had. We savored every bite of the zhough knight (a chicken flatbread sandwich) which was so perfectly seasoned. Make sure you get their chili sauce! We also tried some of their vegetable dishes like the eggplant and potatoes and they were also outstanding. This will be my first stop when I return to Ann Arbor. Highly highly recommend for simply outstanding food. They have great vegetation options too. They also have a good selection of cocktails and beers. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating in a cute patio. No good pictures because the food was too good to wait.
Bridgette Pollaski
Amazing! Great flavor and really filling. Everything we ordered was delicious! The squash dish and tofu mafia wrap were sooo good! My only complaint is that it was a bit pricey.
Dan McPherson
The food was incredible and the service was built to match. The chicken lemon rice soup was not only the best I've had it was the best I can imagine. Absolutely will be going back and recommending to others
Marcyn Campbell
I ordered the Al Pastor and it was so delicious! Ellen was my waitress and she was so kind and funny! Very lovely atmosphere and hospitality in the restaurant. Would definitely recommend for any future patrons, particularly those of the LGBTQ+ community! Will definitely come back when I’m in town again! 💗
Ben Blue
Fun design. Fast service. Tasty food. They allowed us to bring our own wine and charged $20 corkage. Lots of plant based options. Vegans welcome!
How to reach Spiedo
None
Website: None
Why Spiedo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Spiedo with your friends? If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dining experience that simultaneously feels casual and special, Spiedo is the perfect spot to gather your group. With a strong 4.7-star rating across more than 200 reviews, this Ann Arbor gem offers an inviting atmosphere along with a unique fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean-inspired dishes crafted with creativity and care. The restaurant’s bold pink interior and stylish décor set a warm, lively tone ideal for socializing and making memories. Whether you’re out with longtime friends or hosting a family meetup, the menu’s variety and quality ensure there’s something for everyone, including plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. The quick yet attentive service lets you relax and enjoy the moment without long waits, while the carefully curated dishes and specialty flatbreads spark conversation and delight the palate. Essentially, Spiedo strikes the rare balance of being a casual spot that feels “special occasion” worthy, making it an exceptional choice to rally around and share great food, laughter, and connection.
What kind of activities and experiences does Spiedo offer that make it ideal for group meetups? First, the dining style at Spiedo is designed for relaxed social interaction. The restaurant features “half-service” seating where you order at the counter, and food is delivered to your table, so your group can focus on each other without interruptions from constant waitstaff visits. The space seats about forty people comfortably, allowing for intimate groups as well as medium-sized meetups. For any gathering, whether focused around lunch or dinner, Spiedo’s mix of indoor seating—including colorful and cozy rooms—and an outdoor patio offers versatile options to suit the vibe you want. The bold, fun atmosphere encourages a casual yet lively energy that naturally fosters connection and good conversation. On top of that, Spiedo offers fast, efficient service so groups don’t experience long wait times, which can be a challenge at other spots. This setup is especially accommodating for groups who want to eat, talk, and enjoy their time without rushing or feeling awkward about ordering.
What dishes and drinks at Spiedo are perfect for sharing with friends or family? The menu is a highlight when hosting any group. It features a creative blend of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with globally inspired twists, such as “Thaitalian barbecue” influences from the chef’s background. Groups will love starting with the housemade dips, known for their rich textures and bold flavors, served with what diners rave as some of the best flatbread in town—warm, fluffy, and perfect for scooping. Options like the zhoug knight and pkhali dips stand out, offering fresh herbaceous bursts that complement the smoky, savory main dishes. The sandwiches, including favorites like the RIP Smash with crispy pork and kimchi, offer an adventurous and satisfying bite for those who enjoy meat, while tofu and falafel options make sure vegetarians feel just as included. The rice bowls catering to gluten-free diets expand choices further, ensuring no one feels left out. On the beverage side, their “adult sodas”—draft cocktails with bright acidity and bubbles—pair beautifully with the food and add a festive flair to any gathering. Beer options like Modelo Especial in 32-ounce pony pitchers are great for sharing and relaxing among friends.
How does Spiedo cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences? Bringing together friends or family often means accommodating various food preferences or restrictions, and Spiedo handles that impressively well. The restaurant’s menu thoughtfully includes many vegetarian dishes and several vegan options, so plant-based diners have a truly satisfying experience. Items such as falafel or tofu mafi flatbreads, sweet-and-sour eggplant, and vegetable-focused sides like beets and potatoes are prepared with vibrant sauces and seasonings that even meat lovers find enjoyable. For gluten-free guests, the rice bowls are explicitly designed to avoid gluten, while the overall menu highlights fresh ingredients and housemade components that avoid common allergens or heavy processing. This inclusive approach means groups can order freely without worry, and conversations can stay focused on enjoyment rather than dietary diplomacy. Plus, the chef’s rotating menu and daily creative changes keep everyone intrigued, encouraging repeat visits where friends can share new discoveries.
Why is the ambiance and décor at Spiedo ideal for a group meetup? Spiedo’s interior design perfectly complements its food philosophy of boldness and freshness. The restaurant features eye-catching, monochromatic panels, bright pops of color, and a playful neon glow that radiates warmth and energy. The “disjointed” space is intentionally unified through creative design elements to create a casual yet sophisticated environment where guests can feel both relaxed and invigorated. With seating both inside and on a charming outdoor patio, groups can choose a cozy corner or vibrant open area, depending on their preference or the weather. The space’s aesthetic was carefully crafted to be welcoming and dynamic, encouraging guests to linger over conversation and savor their meal. As the chef and owner noted, this laid-back vibe moves away from fine dining rigidity, appealing especially to groups looking for casual fun without compromising on quality or style. The overall experience at Spiedo is that of a hidden treasure in Ann Arbor—a cool, colorful spot that makes your meetup feel like a small celebration.
What practical features at Spiedo support group gatherings? Beyond great food and atmosphere, Spiedo offers amenities that simplify group visits. There is available parking nearby along with street parking, making arrivals and departures hassle-free. The restaurant accepts credit cards and offers takeout and delivery options, perfect for groups that want flexibility or might want to extend the gathering elsewhere. Accessibility is thoughtfully addressed with wheelchair access and easy seating arrangements accommodating various group sizes. The quick service model allows groups to come and go at a comfortable pace, avoiding long waits common in casual dining spots. Spiedo’s location in downtown Ann Arbor also means it’s close to other entertainment or activities, making it easy to plan a multi-stop outing with friends or family. These practical benefits, combined with Spiedo’s culinary and social strengths, truly make it one of the best places to host a casual but memorable meetup with your favorite people.
When should you consider visiting Spiedo for your next group meetup? Whether planning a casual lunch, a laid-back dinner, or a weekend outing, Spiedo’s hours cater conveniently to midday and evening crowds. Open Tuesday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Friday and Saturday extending to 10:00 p.m., the restaurant serves as an ideal destination for weekday breaks or relaxed weekend gatherings. The menu’s range and rotating selections mean there’s always something fresh to explore, inspiring groups to make repeat visits or extend their time lingering over cocktails. The casual “order at counter” system also suits groups that want flexibility and speed, while the cozy, intimate seating sets a perfect scene for whatever catch-up or celebration you have in mind. Given its popularity and positive word-of-mouth, planning your visit ahead, especially on weekends, ensures a smooth experience. Hosting friends or family at Spiedo means enjoying delicious, thoughtfully prepared cuisine in a setting designed to maximize connection and joy. It is a destination where food and friendship are equally celebrated.