When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Box Social
Why The Box Social is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Box Social in Sarasota is a dynamic and inviting venue that has rapidly become one of the city's premier spots for socializing and entertainment. Founded by local entrepreneur Rachel Withers in 2009, The Box Social merges the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere of a British corner pub with a vibrant culinary and cultural scene. It’s located optimally at the corner of Lemon and Main Street in downtown Sarasota, making it easily accessible and a pivotal part of the city’s nightlife transformation. This establishment shines as a go-to place for friends looking to meet, indulge in elevated cuisine, and enjoy live music performances that frequently grace its stage, thanks to the involvement of Withers’ partner, Ryan Baucom, who contributes his musical talent and equipment. The ambiance caters to various times of the day and night – from a cozy daytime café to a lively nighttime social hub, embodying a sense of community and innovation. The Box Social stands out due to its unique blend of quality food, local music, and a spirited atmosphere that encourages connection and celebration among friends. It represents more than just a spot to eat and drink; it is a cultural beacon contributing to the revitalization of Sarasota’s downtown core with authenticity and warmth.
Here's what people think of The Box Social
As of recent, The Box Social holds a 4.6-star rating based on 318 reviews.
User reviews of The Box Social reflect a strong overall appreciation, as evidenced by an impressive 4.6 rating from over 300 reviewers. Positive reviews frequently highlight the welcoming ambiance, eclectic live music, and the quality of food and drinks offered. Customers appreciate the venue’s ability to cater to different moods—whether relaxing with a coffee or enjoying an evening out with friends. Many commend the staff for being friendly and attentive, which enhances the welcoming vibe and community feel that owners have strived to cultivate. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as limited seating during peak hours and the challenge of parking nearby downtown. A few patrons have noted variability in food or drink preparation, although these comments tend to be isolated rather than systematic. Overall, the consensus indicates that The Box Social is a beloved local establishment that effectively blends socializing, entertainment, and culinary delights, with only minor drawbacks typical of popular urban venues. The positive impressions strongly outweigh the negatives, reinforcing its reputation as a key social hub in Sarasota's nightlife.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Janet Stiles
Definitely recommend this place if you are in town. The place is adorable, and the people are even better. We went here for a girls' day out, and we had the best service ever and some delicious drinks. You will love this place. We will definitely be back.
Jeanne Scott
Fun place to have an after work drink and nosh. Parmesan popcorn is a salt and pepper cheesy delight. The happy hour grilled cheese was disappointing. Basically dry toast with cheddar in the middle, but the tomato soup was lovely and smooth with a satisfying bit of heat on the back end. The Moscow Mule I had was very good. All in all a pleasant place to meet up with friends. Good happy hour, great service. Attentive without being helicopter service.
Fasai Streed
Went there with girlfriends for Happy Hour. Good food. Great cocktails.
Stephanie Arnet
Came in and sat at the bar- Colin B. poured an excellent dirty mezcal martini for me and had great wine knowledge for my husband. The vibe was intimate and relaxed at the same time. Great spot for a date night!
Arthur T
Nice spot for drinks! Decided to stop by here since there was a wait to eat at Eem. I ended up getting the "pick yourself" drink. I told the server I felt like drinking something similar to a mule, and the bartender just had some fun with it! Drink overall was fine. Street parking only.
How to reach The Box Social
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Website: None
Why The Box Social may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Box Social with your friends?
Gathering with friends at The Box Social offers a unique and memorable experience that combines a warm, welcoming atmosphere with excellent service and thoughtfully crafted drinks and food options. This venue is known for its lively yet inviting environment, perfect for creating shared memories with your group. Whether you’re looking for a casual hangout spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion, The Box Social strikes an ideal balance between sophistication and comfort, making everyone feel right at home. The staff are attentive and accommodating, ensuring that all guests, including those with dietary restrictions, receive great service, which adds to the stress-free enjoyment of your visit. The cocktail menu offers a variety of well-made drinks featuring gins, bourbons, and whiskeys, appealing to diverse tastes while enhancing the social vibe. With its sleek décor and energetic buzz, The Box Social invites groups to relax, connect, and make the most of their time together in a space that feels both stylish and friendly. It is a place where friends can truly rally, enjoy excellent company, and celebrate life’s moments in a lively yet comfortable setting.
What activities and experiences does The Box Social offer for groups?
The Box Social caters perfectly to group meetups with a variety of activities centered around food, drinks, and social engagement. The venue offers a curated cocktail menu that features distinctive and delicious choices, encouraging friends to explore different flavors and toast to special moments. Sharing plates or small bites enhance these gatherings by allowing groups to sample multiple dishes, though some guests have noted a desire for an expanded bites menu, which could be an area for future improvement. The vibe is lively, with a busy yet welcoming ambiance, providing the kind of background energy that sparks conversation and laughter. Furthermore, the attentive staff ensures that any specific group needs, including food allergies and preferences, are handled thoughtfully, which is crucial when coordinating meetups that may include diverse dietary restrictions. Seating arrangements can accommodate groups comfortably, making it easy to spend hours catching up without feeling cramped or rushed. Altogether, The Box Social’s combination of great drinks, tasty food, accommodating service, and a dynamic atmosphere make it an excellent setting for a group to relax, celebrate, and reconnect.
How does The Box Social’s ambiance support social gatherings?
The ambiance at The Box Social is a defining feature that makes it so appealing for hosting meetups with friends or family. The interior design strikes a sleek and modern tone, with stylish décor that feels both sophisticated and approachable. This creates a warm and inviting environment that encourages guests to linger and enjoy their time together. Many patrons highlight the "exquisite atmosphere," noting how it elevates their experience without feeling pretentious. The venue maintains a balanced hustle and bustle—busy enough to feel vibrant but not so crowded as to hinder conversation or comfort. The lighting and acoustics are conducive to socializing, offering a backdrop that supports lively interaction and relaxed chatter. Staff friendliness adds to this positive climate; the team goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and valued, which enhances the overall enjoyment. Whether you come for a casual evening or a special celebration, the ambiance contributes significantly to making The Box Social a destination where social gatherings genuinely feel engaging and enjoyable.
Why is The Box Social a great choice for hosting events or celebrations?
Beyond casual meetups, The Box Social shines as a venue for hosting larger events and celebrations, such as birthday gatherings or even wedding receptions. The venue’s layout and attentive service allow it to accommodate groups seamlessly, managing both intimate social dinners and festive parties with equal ease. Clients who have chosen The Box Social for their weddings or receptions commend the staff for their professionalism, flexibility, and helpfulness in customizing the experience to fit their needs. This kind of event support means hosts can rely on the team to handle logistics smoothly and ensure guests have a fantastic time. The bar service is exceptional, with bartenders who are friendly and skilled, helping to keep the party atmosphere buzzing all night. Also, the venue’s style and charm provide a beautiful backdrop for photographs and social moments, elevating the significance of special celebrations. This combination of ambiance, space, and expertise in event hosting makes The Box Social a highly recommended choice for anyone planning group events that demand a memorable and well-executed experience.
What makes The Box Social’s food and drink offerings special for group gatherings?
The food and drink offerings at The Box Social are carefully crafted to complement group socializing and create enjoyable shared experiences. The cocktail menu is notable for its diverse and thoughtfully balanced drinks, including standout gin and bourbon concoctions that appeal to various palates. These drinks are not only delicious but also impressively blended, making them highlights of the visit and perfect for toasting occasions with friends or family. In terms of food, although the bites menu is modest, it provides well-prepared options that pair beautifully with drinks and encourage sharing among groups. The kitchen’s commitment to accommodating allergies and special dietary needs is another strength, enabling everyone in the group to feel included and cared for. Additionally, some reviews praise the quality and presentation of the food, adding to the overall delight of the experience. The focus on flavor, presentation, and flexibility ensures that food and drinks at The Box Social contribute to a satisfying and convivial atmosphere ideal for social meetups.
How accessible and welcoming is The Box Social for diverse groups?
Accessibility and friendliness are key reasons why The Box Social stands out as a group-friendly venue. The staff are trained to be attentive and accommodating, making guests with specific dietary needs or preferences feel supported and comfortable. For groups that may include individuals with allergies or other restrictions, this dedication to personalized service is especially valuable and helps reduce the stress often associated with dining out. The venue’s layout is also conducive to group interactions, providing ample seating without overcrowding. Reviews often mention the promptness of seating even during busy times, so large parties don’t have to wait long to settle in. The overall vibe is inclusive and unpretentious, encouraging guests from all walks of life to feel at ease and fully enjoy their social time. This commitment to accessibility and hospitality ensures The Box Social sustains a positive environment for diverse gatherings and helps foster memorable experiences for everyone involved.
Why should you consider The Box Social for your next group meetup or event?
Choosing The Box Social for your next meetup or event means prioritizing quality, ambiance, and hospitality. This venue combines a lively atmosphere with thoughtful service, making it easy for groups to connect and celebrate together without distractions or discomfort. Whether you want to enjoy creative cocktails, share tasty bites, or simply relax in a stylish space with friends or family, The Box Social delivers across the board. Its staff’s attentiveness to detail, especially regarding guest accommodation, adds a personalized touch that many other venues may lack. The combination of a great location, excellent food and drink offerings, and a warm, inviting ambiance makes The Box Social a smart choice when you want your meetup to stand out as something special. With consistently high ratings and glowing reviews, it’s clear this venue has built a reputation as a preferred spot for group gatherings. Hosting your event here promises not just a place to meet but a vibrant social experience that brings people closer and creates lasting memories.