When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Alderman
Why The Alderman is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Alderman in New York City stands out as a refined dining destination, perfect for meeting up with friends in an atmosphere that balances quiet sophistication with comfort. Located near Times Square, this restaurant offers a high-end experience without the pretentiousness, making it an inviting setting where guests can relax and enjoy good company. The ambiance is characterized by understated elegance, with a serene environment that feels exclusive yet welcoming. Highlights include a thoughtfully curated menu featuring standout dishes such as perfectly cooked duck and trout, alongside delectable starters like crispy mushrooms and fried sunchokes — the latter praised as a highlight worth the visit alone. Guests also enjoy a homemade bread basket served with flavorful butter and dipping oils, rounding out the appetizer experience. The bar is another focal point, especially known for exquisite cocktails like an exceptional Espresso Martini that guests find irresistible. Beyond the food and drinks, The Alderman shines for its attentive and friendly service, where staff are genuinely eager to enhance the dining experience, offering wine pairings and prompt, pleasant attention that fosters a warm hospitality. Overall, The Alderman offers a memorable combination of quality cuisine, great drinks, and an ambiance that invites convivial gatherings, making it a standout spot to catch up with friends or celebrate special moments.
Here's what people think of The Alderman
As of recent, The Alderman holds a 4.9-star rating based on 115 reviews.
Visitors to The Alderman consistently praise it as a hidden gem offering a holistic experience that goes beyond just food. Reviewers emphasize the excellent quality of dishes, from savory mains like duck and trout to inventive starters such as crispy mushrooms and fried sunchokes. The homemade bread basket with butter and oil is frequently mentioned as a delightful addition. Cocktail lovers also appreciate the bar’s creative offerings, particularly the Espresso Martini, which many enjoyed throughout their visit. The ambiance receives positive notes for its quiet, understated elegance that manages to feel both comfortable and upscale, an ideal backdrop for meaningful conversations. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional service, noting the staff's friendly, attentive nature and their eagerness to recommend wines and cater to guests' needs, making patrons feel genuinely welcomed and valued. On the other hand, some reviews from other sources hint that, while The Alderman excels in dining and bar experience, it may occasionally present itself as a niche spot primarily for cocktails or smaller menus rather than a full meal destination. Nonetheless, The Alderman’s overwhelmingly positive customer feedback underlines its reputation as a place where guests enjoy a refined and memorable evening. In conclusion, the reviews portray The Alderman as an elegant yet approachable restaurant with excellent food, drink, and service that creates a standout experience worth returning to for any social occasion.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Carlyle Bouchard
I had made a reservation at The Alderman after hearing fabulous things about about it from a friend who lives nearby. Upon arrival, my party learned there was an error where the speakeasy was closed for a private event, but the booking software didn’t register the block, so we were unable to enter. The owner of Pilsen Yards - a restaurant I also recommend - was there and offered a delightful experience to make up for the mistake. He seated us at a booth in the main restaurant and chatted with us for a while. He brought us the speakeasy cocktail menu and told us they’d bring us a comped round of drinks from The Alderman. We were then greeted by the Alderman bartender who walked us through the menu and gave us a refreshing sipper to start. The drinks we both had were fabulous. I had a seasonal drink, the Chopped and Screwed. The flower inside the ice cube was a wonderful way to give the drink’s appearance some flare. While we were disappointed to not be able to sit in the speakeasy, things happen! The service and drinks absolutely made up for the whole thing. Couldn’t recommend both Pilsen Yards and the Alderman more. Thank you to you and your staff, John!
Kylie Arsenault
came here for date night with my love. the drinks were so creative & the bartender was very knowledgeable and passionate about mixology. my favorite was the martini- i order those frequently at different establishments across the country & THIS was the BEST i've ever had- i wont describe it in detail bc words dont do it justice (my bf hates gin & doesnt like martinis, but he loved this one too- not liked, LOVED).
Chase ECHO
This establishment has set my bar for top-notch cocktail experiences. Just go in and try everything is all i can say. Can tell the workers are passionate about mixology and crafting unique cocktails. This place is a 10/10 & glad it’s local.
Mariana
The Alderman is just a good bar. Nothing too extravagant and low-key enough to hold a conversation without too much hassle. Service is good but you have to be patient, since there are no other servers besides the bartender. Just as a heads up, they don't offer food and their cocktail menu is kind of small.
Courtney B
Highly recommend visiting this super lowkey and intimate bar. It’s inside of Pilsen Yards. There’s about 6 tables and 4 stools at the bar. It’s dimly lit cozy space that’s aesthetically pleasing with chandeliers and a mix of black art. The drinks are not your traditional cocktails, they come with a twist that makes them unique. It’s a good place to try something different. They also play a good mix of r&b, soul, funk, and electronic.
How to reach The Alderman
None
Website: None
Why The Alderman may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Alderman with your friends?
Bringing your friends together at The Alderman is an exceptional choice for many compelling reasons. Located in the vibrant heart of New York City, this restaurant is celebrated for its tranquil, refined ambiance that blends understated elegance with a welcoming atmosphere. When you gather here, you are not just meeting for a meal; you are immersing yourself in a complete experience that balances sophistication and comfort flawlessly. The Alderman is a hidden gem, a sanctuary away from the usual noisiness of Times Square, allowing friends to connect, relax, and enjoy each other’s company in a space that feels both exclusive and inviting. The combination of top-tier food and drinks, alongside attentive and friendly service, sets a tone that encourages lingering conversations and shared moments. Whether you start with craft cocktails at the bar or dive directly into an expertly curated meal, the setting ensures every visit feels special and memorable. This makes The Alderman a perfect rallying point for friends seeking both delicious cuisine and a delightful social experience.
What activities and experiences does The Alderman offer for group meetups?
The Alderman goes beyond being just a restaurant; it offers a variety of activities and experiences that make group meetups truly enjoyable. For starters, its bar area provides a perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks or casual mingling. Guests rave about unique cocktails like the Espresso Martini, which has garnered loyal fans. The bar’s atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, encouraging groups to unwind and share conversations over expertly crafted beverages.
Moving from drinks to dining, The Alderman serves a range of dishes that are ideal for sharing, enhancing the communal feel of your gathering. Starters such as crispy mushrooms and fried sunchokes offer flavors that spark conversation and delight the palate, with the sunchokes especially praised as an absolute must-try. The menu caters to diverse tastes, featuring succulent mains like perfectly cooked duck and trout, which have been lauded for their rich flavors and precise preparation. Sharing these plates encourages a warm, family-style dining environment where everyone can sample and enjoy different tastes together.
Adding to the experience, the service at The Alderman is exceptional. Staff are described as attentive, friendly, and genuinely enthusiastic about hosting guests. This attentive service heightens the comfort level, allowing groups to focus on their company and enjoy the moment without distraction or worry about being rushed. The team is also knowledgeable about wine pairings, making it easy to enjoy perfectly complemented drinks alongside your meal.
What makes The Alderman’s ambiance ideal for groups and social gatherings?
The ambiance of The Alderman is a defining feature that sets it apart as an ideal spot for groups and social gatherings. Unlike many city establishments that can feel hurried or overly loud, The Alderman offers a quietly elegant environment that balances intimacy with style. The decor and layout invite conversation and connection, making it easy to hear and engage with everyone around the table without feeling overwhelmed by noise.
This atmosphere is particularly conducive to social events because it feels simultaneously upscale and comfortable. Guests report feeling like they are in a high-end setting, yet not out of place or stiff, which is essential for relaxed, enjoyable get-togethers. The ambiance fosters a sense of occasion without pretension, helping groups feel they’ve chosen a special place that respects their time together.
Furthermore, The Alderman’s location near Times Square provides an exciting urban backdrop, making it easy for groups to plan extended outings. After a meal or drinks, guests can easily continue their evening exploring the area, turning a meetup here into a full night out. This convenience and the sophisticated ambiance make The Alderman an excellent anchor point for shared experiences among friends or family.
How does The Alderman’s menu accommodate different tastes and group preferences?
One of the standout qualities of The Alderman is its diverse and thoughtfully prepared menu, designed to cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, which is essential when dining with a group. The menu balances classic and creative dishes, ensuring there is something for everyone at the table. Appetizers like homemade bread with house-made butter and dipping oils provide a warm, inviting start that pleases even the pickiest eaters.
For those who enjoy sharing smaller plates, selections such as crispy mushrooms and fried sunchokes offer exciting flavors and textures. These dishes are crafted to encourage communal dining, sparking joyful sharing and discussion. Main courses are equally impressive, with options like duck and trout prepared to perfection. These dishes appeal both to those seeking refined, well-executed entrees and to guests open to adventurous flavors.
The dessert offerings, including a rich pudding and delicate pastries, provide a sweet conclusion that guests can share or enjoy individually. Coupled with wine and cocktail pairings recommended by knowledgeable staff, the menu supports a full culinary journey, tailored to group dynamics and individual preferences. This thoughtful menu design means that get-togethers at The Alderman are culinary celebrations that everyone can enjoy.
Why is the service at The Alderman crucial in enhancing group visits?
Excellent service is a cornerstone of a memorable dining experience, particularly when hosting group meetups, and The Alderman shines in this regard. The staff at The Alderman are praised for their attentiveness and genuine warmth, which helps create a welcoming environment where guests feel valued and cared for. Instead of feeling like just another table, groups experience personalized attention that anticipates needs without being intrusive.
From recommending wines and cocktails to ensuring that shared dishes arrive promptly and everyone is satisfied, the service team contributes significantly to the evening’s flow. They are knowledgeable about the menu and proactive in responding to special requests or dietary considerations, making them partners in crafting a seamless event for your group.
This kind of attentive service reduces stress and increases enjoyment, allowing guests to focus fully on each other rather than logistical details. The positive, approachable manner of the Alderman team makes every visit feel special and appreciated, which encourages groups to return and recommend the venue to others for future meetups.
How does The Alderman’s location and setting contribute to its appeal for meetups?
The Alderman’s prime location in New York City, close to the excitement of Times Square yet offering a quiet refuge, adds a unique appeal for hosting friends and family gatherings. Its setting strikes a rare balance: easy to access and central but removed enough from the tourist bustle to foster intimacy and connection. This makes planning a meetup simple and convenient, especially for groups coming from different parts of the city or beyond.
The urban surroundings supply a dynamic backdrop that extends the experience, whether guests decide to start the evening with a stroll through nearby sights or end it with a walk through the lively district. The location offers a great mix of accessibility and atmosphere, which is often hard to find in busy metropolitan areas.
For groups wanting to blend dining with entertainment or cultural outings, The Alderman is ideally positioned to serve as a culinary hub. Guests can enjoy the calm of the restaurant before branching out to the city’s vibrant offerings. This flexibility and accessibility greatly enhance its appeal as a meeting point for social groups.
What makes The Alderman stand out compared to other group meetup venues?
Many venues can host groups, but The Alderman distinguishes itself through its combination of culinary excellence, refined yet relaxed ambiance, exceptional service, and strategic location. Unlike typical noisy or overly commercialized spots, The Alderman provides a high-quality experience that feels carefully curated and uniquely welcoming.
Its stellar reputation, affirmed by high ratings and positive reviews, reflects consistent delivery on these promises. Where other venues might focus only on food or atmosphere, The Alderman excels comprehensively, making every aspect—drink selection, food quality, staff interaction, and ambiance—work in harmony to support memorable social interactions.
This holistic approach ensures that groups leave with not only full bellies but also enriched experiences, strengthened friendships, and a desire to return. The Alderman’s commitment to excellence in all details makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking a remarkable place to host meaningful social gatherings.
The Alderman’s blend of elegant ambiance, diverse and delicious menu offerings, exemplary service, and convenient yet serene location makes it an outstanding venue for meetups with friends or family. It combines the best elements needed to foster connection, joy, and memorable moments shared over great food and drinks. Whether you are planning a casual catch-up, a celebratory dinner, or a special occasion, The Alderman provides a setting and experience that elevates your gathering beyond the ordinary.