When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
The Back Room
Why The Back Room is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Back Room is a well-known seafood restaurant and drinking place located at 4335 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA. With a solid rating of 4.0 from 74 reviews, it stands out as a great meeting place for friends seeking delicious seafood and a relaxing atmosphere. The establishment specializes in fresh oysters and other seafood dishes, which are complemented by a carefully curated selection of drinks. The ambiance provides a comfortable and casual environment, perfect for social gatherings or casual meetups. Whether you want to enjoy a flavorful meal or just unwind with drinks, The Back Room offers a friendly staff and an inviting space that adds to the overall experience. It's a dependable spot that caters to seafood lovers and those looking for a pleasant place to connect.
Here's what people think of The Back Room
As of recent, The Back Room holds a 4-star rating based on 74 reviews.
Customer reviews for The Back Room reveal a largely positive reception with some critiques. Many positive reviews highlight the freshness of the seafood, especially the quality of the oysters, and the generous portions served. Patrons appreciate the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, which makes it ideal for gatherings with friends or family. The staff receives frequent praise for their attentive and friendly service, creating a warm and inviting experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as wait times during busy hours or limited parking availability. A few customers have noted that the noise level can be higher than expected, which might detract from a quieter dining experience. Overall, the consensus leans towards satisfaction, with most visitors recommending The Back Room for its good food and vibrant social setting. The reviews suggest it is a reliable spot to enjoy seafood and drinks in Baton Rouge, balancing quality offerings with a fun environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alan Liu
massive slice for $3.50, each slice is a quarter of a ~12" pie, rlly doughy but still tastes decent, has outdoor seating
Matt C
Went for the first time in a decade plus last week. Pizza was good, but not the same as the thinner crust served in a foil wrap that it once was.
Vikram Bala
The atmosphere isn't great - doesn't seem to clean and it's a really small space... That being said, the price for a slice is unbeatable 🍕 The slices are huge and as of now, the price for cheese is only $3!! Pizza itself is fine. Nothing to blow you away, but solid overall.
Ramirez Kids
Their almond water is pretty good, but its literally just yellow walls for like a million miles. If you get there, Go to level fun!!!!! (=
Claire VH
This hoppin joint had some killer slices, perfect for a night on the town. The chairs on the curb made for a perfect, romantic evening. Also, it was nice to find a place open that wasn’t a bar at that time. It was great pizza.
How to reach The Back Room
None
Website: None
Why The Back Room may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Back Room with your friends? This venue offers a unique blend of atmosphere, history, and social intimacy that makes gathering with friends or family a memorable experience. Whether you're looking to escape the typical bar scene or want a place that feels like a secret discovery, The Back Room creates a cozy, inviting environment where conversation and connection thrive. The venue’s reputation as a stylish yet intimate spot means that your group can enjoy meaningful interactions in a relaxed setting without the overwhelming noise or crowds found in larger nightlife spots. This creates an ideal backdrop for celebrations, casual hangouts, or simply unwinding together after a busy day. Moreover, the establishment’s nod to a classic, almost clandestine charm adds a layer of intrigue and fun, making your visit feel exclusive and special. For groups who value ambiance and a distinctive vibe, rallying at The Back Room can turn ordinary gatherings into cherished memories with your closest friends or family.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at The Back Room? The primary draw is its stylish bar offering a curated selection of cocktails that pay homage to historical prohibition-era themes, adding a touch of novelty and sophistication to your outing. Though some reviews note that cocktail quality can vary, many appreciate the thoughtfully designed small menu that encourages guests to try unique drinks they won’t find elsewhere. This makes it perfect for groups that enjoy cocktail tasting and experiencing different flavors together. Beyond the drinks, the venue’s intimate setting is perfect for deep conversations or games that bring groups closer, such as card or board games you bring along, creating a friendly and engaging environment. While it’s not an event center with a multitude of activities, the charm lies in the shared experience of the place itself — the décor, the lighting, and the ambiance foster a relaxed social atmosphere that’s hard to replicate. Plus, its unique secret-entry feature can add an element of excitement and exclusivity for your group.
Why is The Back Room suited for group meetups and celebrations? For starters, the venue’s layout is conducive to group interactions without overwhelming crowds, allowing friends and family to enjoy each other's company comfortably. If you plan a birthday, reunion, or casual night out, The Back Room’s stylish, cozy environment creates a private feel that makes every gathering feel special. The staff can assist with reservations for groups to ensure you have dedicated space, making it easier to coordinate your meetup without hassle. The venue also offers a nostalgic vibe with its historical theming, often sparking conversations and shared stories among guests, which helps enhance the bonding experience. Although it is not a large event space, the intimate setting ensures your group feels connected and focused on enjoying time together rather than contending with loud music or packed crowds. This balance makes The Back Room ideal for small to moderately sized groups looking for a comfortable spot with personality.
What should guests know about the ambiance and setting? The Back Room is designed with a nod to the past, featuring décor that recalls the classic speakeasy style with a modern twist. This includes dim lighting, vintage furnishings, and a hidden entrance, which elevates the experience beyond a typical bar or restaurant outing. Such ambiance is a major draw for groups seeking a spot that feels exclusive and a bit mysterious. Because the space is relatively small, it encourages intimacy but can sometimes feel crowded if the venue is busy, so planning ahead with reservations is advisable. The venue’s music and overall vibe promote relaxation and easy conversation, making it ideal for groups who want to catch up or celebrate without the distraction of loud noise. Additionally, the subtle blend of history and charm provides a unique conversation starter and enriches the social experience at The Back Room.
How does The Back Room compare for customer experience and service? While many patrons appreciate the venue's vibe and uniqueness, some reviews have mentioned issues concerning staff interactions, which suggests that customer service can be inconsistent. It is worth noting that such feedback often relates to entry management or waitstaff attentiveness, which can vary based on timing and crowd levels. For groups, this means it’s wise to communicate clearly with staff in advance and be prepared for potential busy periods that might impact service pace. Despite this, many guests still find the overall experience enjoyable, especially if the focus is on quality time with friends rather than just impeccable service. The venue’s management appears focused on maintaining the speakeasy charm and intimate experience, which can sometimes lead to a more relaxed approach rather than a perfectly polished event service. For group meetups, this typically results in a more laid-back, informal atmosphere that feels personal.
What practical tips can help you plan your visit to The Back Room? Given its popularity for intimate group gatherings and celebrations, it’s strongly recommended to arrange reservations well in advance to secure a spot, particularly on weekends or special occasions. Since the venue’s cocktail menu is intentionally small and specialized, planning your group’s drink choices ahead of time can enhance the experience by allowing everyone to try unique options without decision fatigue. If your group has specific needs, such as dietary restrictions or preferences, verifying what food or drink options are available is advisable — some guests suggest dining prior to visiting or bringing food when permissible, to complement the drinks and extend the meetup’s enjoyment. Arriving together or coordinating arrival times helps avoid entry hassles, especially since the secret or discreet entrance may confuse first-time visitors. Lastly, dressing in smart-casual attire fits well with the venue’s stylish yet relaxed vibe, helping you feel both comfortable and part of the exclusive atmosphere.
In what ways does The Back Room stand out from other similar venues for group gatherings? The combination of its historical ambiance, cocktail-focused bar, and intimate setting creates a niche experience often absent in larger bars or lounges. Unlike typical noisy venues, The Back Room invites guests to engage deeply in conversations, making it ideal for groups that value connection over spectacle. Its speakeasy-style hidden entrance provides an interactive element that turns arriving at the venue into a fun event in itself, appealing to groups who enjoy discovering something off the beaten path. Although some venues may offer wider activity choices or bigger event spaces, The Back Room’s charm lies in its curated ambiance and the feeling of stepping into a different era, creating a uniquely memorable backdrop for your gathering. This makes it especially popular among those who appreciate ambiance and subtle sophistication over loud parties or generic bar experiences.
What are some reasons groups return to The Back Room? Many groups find themselves returning because it successfully combines a relaxed atmosphere with enough personality to make each visit feel like an event. Its focus on quality cocktails and stylish environment ensures that celebrations feel elevated without being intimidating. Regular visitors often mention the venue’s cozy vibe and the opportunity to connect intimately with friends as major reasons for repeat visits. While service experiences can vary, the consistent element is the friendly and comfortable environment that suits different kinds of meetups, from casual catch-ups to special celebrations. Additionally, guests enjoy the speakeasy’s niche charm, which provides a memorable experience beyond just food and drink, making it a staple location for those wanting a tasteful, enjoyable setting for social gatherings.
What makes The Back Room a top choice for small to medium-sized groups? Its size, layout, and ambiance are tailored to gatherings that want to avoid the overwhelming scale of bars or event spaces. Groups of around 6 to 12 find it particularly convenient for conversation and inclusive participation without losing anyone in a noisy crowd. The privacy and comfort enable more meaningful interaction and allow for special moments, such as toasts or personal celebrations, to feel intimate and authentic. Even with its modest capacity, the venue manages to feel lively and energetic, thanks to its décor and lighting, which enhance social dynamics. This balance of intimacy without isolation is key to why The Back Room is a favored meetup spot for friends and family gatherings aiming for a truly enjoyable night.
Why is The Back Room a good place to make lasting memories with family and friends? Because of its unique blend of ambiance, history, and an intimate setting that does not overwhelm guests, The Back Room allows for deeper, quality interactions that often get lost in louder or larger venues. The special atmosphere encourages storytelling, laughter, and shared moments that help bonds grow stronger. The venue’s décor and secretive entry add an element of fun and exclusivity, which transforms ordinary reunions or nights out into events with a special narrative for your group. Whether you are marking a milestone or just taking time to reconnect, the personalized experience offered here makes gatherings feel more meaningful. For groups who seek a venue where the focus is on togetherness and authentic enjoyment, The Back Room creates the perfect environment to forge lasting memories.