When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Sugar Shane's
Why Sugar Shane's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sugar Shane's is an acclaimed bakery in Atlanta known for its gourmet cookies, brownies, and banana bread that have rapidly earned a devoted local and national following. Founded by Shane Quillin, inspired by New York-style cookies, this destination bakery has expanded to multiple retail locations across metro Atlanta and offers nationwide shipping. Their signature cookies stand out for their unique dome-like shape, which requires a perfected baking process to maintain its form, setting them apart in the crowded dessert market. The bakery also offers an inviting atmosphere with a bright and lively ambiance, making it a great spot to meet friends for indulging in decadent treats. Popular flavors include the banana pudding cookie packed with vanilla wafers and chips, the Dashing Delta with Biscoff and cookie butter fillings, and seasonal specials like pumpkin cheesecake brownies. Sugar Shane's combines a cafe vibe with a dessert shop offering lunch, dinner, brunch, and late-night options, complemented by amenities such as outdoor seating, valet parking, and wheelchair accessibility. Their commitment to quality and creativity ensures that visitors can enjoy unforgettable moments accompanied by exceptional sweet treats.
Here's what people think of Sugar Shane's
As of recent, Sugar Shane's holds a 4.6-star rating based on 85 reviews.
Reviews of Sugar Shane's praise the bakery for its distinctive and indulgent cookies, which are notably dense and generously filled with creative and rich ingredients. Customers consistently highlight the bakery’s uniqueness in the market, particularly the iconic dome-shaped cookies and the high quality of flavors like cookie butter, marshmallow, and banana pudding. The upbeat and energetic atmosphere noted by visitors enhances the overall experience, making it a fun and memorable place to gather. Positive reviews emphasize the excellent customer service, the fresh and satisfying taste of the products, and the successful adaptation of the business to include nationwide shipping and multiple retail storefronts. On the other hand, some negative remarks included the bakery’s sometimes busy environment, which can be overwhelming due to bright lights and loud music for some patrons, and complaints about occasional wait times or limited seating during peak hours. A few reviewers expressed the desire for a wider variety of savory options, given the sweet-heavy menu. Overall, the majority of customer feedback celebrates Sugar Shane's as a top-tier destination for gourmet cookies and decadent desserts, noting Shane Quillin’s effective business pivot and expansion that has helped cement its reputation and appeal in the Atlanta dessert scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tiya Morgan
HONEST REVIEW: I came to Sugar Shane's because I saw an advertisement on Facebook. I am actually leaving Sugar Shane's in Ponce City Market as we speak. I came all the way from Duluth only to be disappointed. First off, there wasn't really anything we could select from, only 6 items. We really wanted to try the cheesecake brownies but they didn't have any. There was a deal for 4 for $5, so we got that. The chocolate chip cookies were hard and tasted like they were a few days old. Even when they were heated, there were still hard. On the plus side, the young lady at the counter was super sweet and apologetic about the selections. Her customer service was amazing and I appreciate that. We are going to another cookie shop. Nevertheless, we won't be coming back. 1st impressions are everything.
Martin Messah
Went here Thursday while strolling around Ponce City Market. We were not hungry but wanted to stop by and try this place because of all the Google reviews of this place! We asked what their number one best seller is, and she recommended the cookies and cream for first time visitors. So that's what we got. Let me tell you, it's a big cookie and it was delicious! I didn't see it until after we took a bite and ate the cookie, but you can request the cookie to be warmed for you too for the more gooey experience. That will be an experience for another time!
Cachet
I stumbled on this spot while looking for cupcakes and decided to give it a try. The cashier was super friendly and knowledgeable about the treats, which made ordering a breeze. I ended up going with a Bundt cake treat called the Final Slice. It was AMAZING. The cake was moist, and the buttercream was rich and delicious… and that’s coming from someone who normally doesn’t care for frosting. My only complaint? Packaging. I took the dessert to go, but it was placed in a bag instead of a box, which got frosting and chocolate everywhere. It was messy and made it nearly impossible to eat in the car. Also, no fork was included, which didn’t help. That said, the flavor was on point, and I’d definitely return. I’ll just be sure to bring my own fork next time.
Felipe Gibert
After eating lunch at Ponce Market, we were craving something sweet and stumbled upon Sugar Shane's. It’s a small bakery with a variety of desserts and cookies. I decided to try the PB S'mores cookie, and I loved it! A little bit salty, a little bit sweet, and packed with s'mores flavor. The dough was crumbly and full of taste. If you're looking for a dessert at Ponce Market, be sure to visit this place and try this cookie—you won’t regret it!
Angel Springhoffs
My wife and mother-in-law recently visited Ponce City Market and picked up four banana nut breads. They went crazy about it best they have had, but the day after, my wife mentioned they didn’t taste as good as they had the day before—not terrible, just not quite the same. I stopped by the store today to speak with someone about it and had the pleasure of speaking with Elizabeth. Her customer service was fantastic—absolutely top-notch. She took the time to listen, and without hesitation, called (I believe) the owner to explain the situation. He kindly offered a note or voucher for four on the house next time we’re in town. For the record, I’m not looking for anything for free. I just truly appreciate great service when I see it, and they absolutely delivered. Thank you, Elizabeth and team—for standing behind your product and treating your customers right. you can't ask for more.
How to reach Sugar Shane's
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Website: None
Why Sugar Shane's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Sugar Shane's with your friends is a sweet choice that combines exceptional desserts with a lively and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to gather and create lasting memories. Known for its irresistibly giant, dense cookies packed with unique and rich flavors, Sugar Shane's delivers an experience that satisfies every sweet tooth and encourages sharing, conversation, and fun. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just catching up with friends, this place offers an exciting vibe with bright lights, upbeat music, and friendly staff who make everyone feel welcome. The communal experience of enjoying their overstuffed cookies, which come with memorable flavors like banana pudding loaded with vanilla wafers and chips or the Dashing Delta featuring Biscoff and gooey cookie butter, naturally fosters a sense of camaraderie and delight. For anyone looking to host a casual yet memorable meetup, Sugar Shane's sets an ideal stage where the focus is on joy, indulgence, and quality time spent together.
Sugar Shane’s isn’t just about desserts; it’s about the experience that makes group gatherings uniquely special. The lively ambiance is perfectly tailored to keep energy high and spirits uplifted, encouraging groups to chat, laugh, and connect over shareable treats. Its location, though somewhat hidden, rewards those who find it with an exclusive feel that elevates the gathering. The bustling environment filled with the scent of freshly baked cookies and the buzz of cheerful customers adds to the excitement. This makes Sugar Shane’s both a destination for dessert lovers and an excellent venue choice for friend and family meetups that crave something different from traditional restaurants or coffee shops. The joy of biting into a warm, freshly heated cookie, as many recommend, adds a comforting and nostalgic element to any gathering here.
What Makes Sugar Shane's Perfect for Group Meetups?
Sugar Shane's excels as a meetup destination because it offers an effortlessly fun environment packed with indulgent treats that can be enjoyed individually or shared amongst friends, enhancing group bonding. The sheer variety of cookie flavors appeals to a diverse range of palates, encouraging groups to try multiple options and share bites. Its menu isn't about complicated meals but focuses on delivering an iconic dessert experience that is both satisfying and memorable. The size and density of the cookies allow groups to split a few, making it easy to sample different flavors without overwhelming anyone. For groups that appreciate creativity in desserts, Sugar Shane's treats stand out due to their inventive ingredients and generous portion sizes.
Moreover, the setup caters well to casual hangouts and celebrations alike. The bright lighting and music create an energetic environment that prevents the meetup from feeling dull or routine, while the staff’s friendly and accommodating demeanor adds a personal touch. This combination of atmosphere and service helps facilitate conversations and laughter, which is key when hosting larger groups who want to enjoy quality time. Additionally, the location's appeal goes beyond just the taste—it’s about the vibe, making it ideal whether your group prefers an evening outing or an afternoon treat. The place is welcoming regardless of the occasion, making organizing group events a breeze.
What Activities Can You Enjoy at Sugar Shane's When With Friends?
While Sugar Shane’s is primarily a dessert destination famous for its cookies, the experience involves more than just eating; it’s an interactive and social activity. One of the main “activities” here is the communal indulgence — groups can order a variety of cookie flavors to sample together, sparking conversations around which ones are favorites and what to try next. The fun of sharing big, dense cookies with innovative flavors enhances the group dynamic as everyone bonds over sweet discoveries. This act of sharing itself turns eating into a social occasion, perfect for loosening up and enjoying your time together.
Additionally, customers often recommend heating the cookies before eating, turning it into a small ritual that adds warmth and an extra layer of deliciousness to the experience. This simple step invites group members to participate actively rather than passively consuming, enhancing engagement. Beyond tasting cookies, the upbeat setting with lively music provides a backdrop conducive to socializing, making it easy for groups to transition from eating to mingling. Moreover, the shop's frequent popularity, especially among students and locals, contributes to a vibrant atmosphere worthy of any meetup aiming to mix casual dining with a fun hangout.
Why Is Sugar Shane's Known for Its Cookies?
Sugar Shane’s reputation is largely built on its giant, dense cookies that are creatively overstuffed with unique and flavorful ingredients. Unlike typical cookies, these are dense enough to almost warrant a “heavy-lifting” warning due to their size and richness. This distinctiveness makes Sugar Shane's cookies a novelty and a must-try, distinguishing it from other dessert spots. The creativity in flavor combinations—such as banana pudding with chunks of vanilla wafers and chips, or the Biscoff-infused Dashing Delta with a molten cookie butter center—delivers a multi-dimensional taste experience that delights customers and encourages repeat visits.
The cookies’ quality and unique character have earned Sugar Shane's praise from happy customers who appreciate both the taste and the fun factor. This makes the business highly attractive to groups looking for a dessert destination that elevates a simple treat into an event. The cookies aren’t just food; they are a talking point and a shared experience, enhancing the social element of any gathering. Their ability to satiate diverse taste preferences while remaining indulgent and exciting is a cornerstone of Sugar Shane’s appeal.
How Does Sugar Shane’s Atmosphere Enhance Your Meetup?
The atmosphere at Sugar Shane’s is electric yet welcoming, designed to complement the high-energy vibe of its cookie-centric offerings. Bright lights and loud, upbeat music ensure that the space feels alive with excitement, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy themselves without the formality of a traditional dining setting. This energetic environment is ideal for groups because it sustains lively conversations and keeps mood levels high throughout the meetup. The presence of cheerful, helpful staff further adds to the positive experience by creating a comfortable environment that supports social engagement.
The somewhat hidden location behind another store lends an exclusive, insider feel, perfect for groups who enjoy discovering and sharing unique local spots. This aspect also generates a sense of adventure that groups can bond over—finding Sugar Shane’s becomes part of the outing’s fun story. Additionally, the continuous flow of other satisfied customers creates a communal vibe where everyone shares the joy of great cookies and good times, helping any meetup feel connected to the wider local community.
Why Do Customers Keep Coming Back to Sugar Shane’s?
Customers frequently return to Sugar Shane’s because of its consistent quality, friendly service, and the undeniable thrill of its signature desserts. Many patrons emphasize the warmth and sweetness of the cookies, especially when heated, which offers a comforting and indulgent experience worth repeating. Beyond the product, the positive interactions with staff and the upbeat environment ensure that visits feel personal and enjoyable, fostering loyalty and word-of-mouth recommendations among friends and family.
Long-term customers often highlight the feeling of being part of a sweet community, fueled by shared experiences and the joy of discovering new flavors. This repeated engagement makes Sugar Shane’s more than just a bakery—it transforms it into a social hub where regular groups can gather comfortably. This reliability and vibrant atmosphere make it a trusted choice for anyone looking to host meetups that combine great food with memorable social experiences.
In conclusion, Sugar Shane's offers a unique and compelling venue for group meetups that prioritize fun, flavor, and community. The combination of its outstanding cookies, lively atmosphere, and welcoming service creates an ideal setting for friends and family to rally together, share delights, and build cherished memories. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Sugar Shane’s sparkles as a place where every gathering is elevated by sweetness and good cheer.