When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Duplex
Why The Duplex is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Duplex, located in Chicago's Logan Square neighborhood, stands out as a compelling destination for friends and couples seeking a warm, inviting atmosphere paired with excellent food and drinks. This charming spot is particularly popular for date nights, offering mood lighting that creates a cozy and romantic ambiance ideal for intimate gatherings or celebrations. The Duplex features a diverse menu highlight, including standout items like the Lobster Roll, Nashville and Garlic Parmesan wings, and perfectly cooked Chicken Parmesan. Its dessert menu is equally impressive with delights like a rich Chocolate Tart and an Espresso Martini with a unique citrus cream twist. Beyond food, The Duplex provides an exciting nightlife vibe with a DJ on Saturday evenings, making it a versatile venue that transitions smoothly from casual daytime dining to lively night-time entertainment. The attentive and friendly staff further enhance the experience, offering prompt service that makes every visit comfortable and enjoyable. Whether catching up with friends over craft cocktails or enjoying a romantic meal, The Duplex combines fantastic cuisine, quality service, and a vibrant atmosphere that makes it a great meetup spot.
Here's what people think of The Duplex
As of recent, The Duplex holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1171 reviews.
User reviews for The Duplex show a generally positive reception, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on over 1,100 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the ambiance, describing it as perfect for romantic outings or enjoyable nights out with friends. Positive comments frequently mention the flavorful wings, fresh seafood options like the Lobster Roll, and deliciously satisfying desserts. The cocktail selections, especially the Bonfire cocktail and the creatively crafted Espresso Martini, receive high praise for their quality and unique twists. Patrons also highlight the courteous and attentive staff, along with efficient service speed, which contribute significantly to the positive experience. On the downside, a small number of reviews express concerns about inconsistent service and occasional wait times, as well as a few less favorable encounters that affected the overall impression. Despite these occasional negatives, the majority consensus appreciates the inviting atmosphere, tasty menu, and lively environment. Overall, the reviews paint The Duplex as a well-loved spot in Chicago that effectively balances great food, drink, and ambiance, making it a recommended choice for social dining and nightlife.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anica F
Definitely make reservations if you plan to go on the weekend. My group was sat fairly quickly. There's a DJ on the weekend during brunch hours. The music selection and vibe was great but VERY loud. I could barely have a convo with the people at my table. There were people standing up at the bar and personally that would bother me if I was sitting over there and people were standing over me. We ordered the lobster dip as an appetizer. I wasn't impressed but everyone else with me liked it. The monster dip is a popular menu item and they do run out. After ordering it took what seemed like 30-40 mins to get our food for only 3 out of the 4 meals to come out. By the time we finished our food my cousins steak and eggs finally came out and was not cooked correctly, so had to send it back. After finally getting the steak it actually tasted good. The lobster roll and breakfast burrito were flavorful. The buffalo wings tasted like wings from a bag heated up in the microwave.
Andy Le
A cute place in Logan Square that has a cute champagne option for friends. Looking for food/pre-game we came first for lunch and tried the champagne mixers to make little cocktails. I will say these cocktails will get you tipsier than expected if you get lost in the flavor combos! The food itself was not too bad, I liked my chicken & waffles! I will say they are quite sweeter than I liked but still very tasty. The soup though was really good and I would definitely steal more spoonfuls of it from my friends haha!!!
Kee
I went last week during happy hour and tried the wings for the first time and they were GOOD! I am very picky and particular with wings and had no complaints at all. The fries were good as well. I had a margarita and that was GOOD. I tried a piece of my friend’s burger and liked it. I will get one next time. The service was great. The atmosphere was good. Will was great and provided great customer service! Before this visit, I was taken care of by Bryant at the bar and he had great customer service as well. He made a good margarita. I guess a margarita is the go to for me here! So far happy hour is on point with the food and drinks! I’ve attended an event here as well and had good drinks. I do recommend The Duplex. I have yet to do brunch here though which is on my list.
Amanda Faulkner
Next time you visit The Duplex, make sure to request Andre as your server! He's absolutely our favorite! Andre is incredibly personable and attentive, and always comes through with spot-on recommendations! Yes, the music gets quite loud when there's a live DJ spinning, but that's all part of the vibrant atmosphere you should expect! We recently visited at 10:30am on a Saturday with our large group of 12, and the service was absolutely impeccable - everyone at our table was delighted with their meals. I highly recommend trying the chicken & waffles, the shrimp & grits, or the breakfast burrito - all are fantastic choices! Fortunately, we haven't experienced any of the negative issues mentioned in other reviews. Perhaps that's because Andre takes care of us each time we visit, ensuring everything is perfectly handled, the food is always fresh, and our drinks never run empty!RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.
Namiah B
We had the best experience with our server Ashley! She was amazing from start to finish — super warm, attentive, and gave us great recommendations that did not disappoint. Thanks to her, I ordered the mozzarella sticks and spicy vodka pasta, and wow… both were absolutely incredible! What really stood out was her thoughtfulness. She surprised us with champagne for my personal celebration — such a kind and unexpected gesture that showed just how attentive she is and how much she puts her customers first. Ashley truly made the evening feel special, and we’ll definitely be back!
How to reach The Duplex
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Why The Duplex may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When it comes to choosing the perfect spot for a meetup with friends or family, The Duplex stands out as an exceptional venue that blends great food, inviting atmosphere, and activities that foster connection and fun. With a solid rating of 4.3 based on over a thousand reviews, it has clearly earned its reputation as a top choice for group gatherings. What makes The Duplex particularly appealing is its dynamic culinary offering—partnering with different chefs and restaurants every six months means guests enjoy fresh, diverse menus that create new reasons to come back. This unique approach serves up an experience richer than your typical restaurant visit. Plus, the long bar serves as a social hub where people can enjoy creative cocktails alongside their meals. The vibe strikes an ideal balance between relaxed bar energy and quality dining, making it easy for groups to mingle comfortably whether gearing up for a night out or winding down after a long day. Friendly, attentive staff and flexible ordering via QR code add to the convenience and ease of hosting a fun, hassle-free meetup here. All these factors combine to make The Duplex a compelling reason to rally your friends for a memorable night out.
What activities are available for groups at The Duplex, and why is it perfect for group meetups?
The Duplex offers a variety of activities that are especially well-suited for groups looking to enjoy each other's company in an engaging setting. One primary activity is enjoying the rotating food menus curated by different chefs and restaurants every six months, which gives groups a fresh culinary experience with every visit. Whether it's savoring the popular birria tacos, indulging in crispy fried chicken sandwiches, or exploring other new dishes, eateries like The Duplex keep menus exciting, turning dining into a shared adventure. Besides food, the long cocktail bar is a social focal point where groups can gather to sample an extensive list of well-crafted cocktails, including signature drinks like the spicy Bonfire cocktail and crowd-pleasing favorites like the Espresso Martini. The bar atmosphere encourages casual conversation and laughter, making it an excellent place for friends to connect over drinks. Additionally, on weekends, The Duplex often features DJ nights that create a lively vibe perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying music together. Their generous sidewalk patio also provides a spacious outdoor setting, ideal for enjoying good weather and people-watching without feeling cramped.
How does the ambiance of The Duplex enhance group meetups?
Ambiance plays a critical role in making group events enjoyable, and The Duplex excels in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that suits a broad range of social occasions. The interior is large and well-lit with mood lighting that sets a cozy yet vibrant tone, making it perfect for both intimate gatherings and lively group outings. The layout, with a sizable bar occupying half the space, naturally fosters social interaction and mingling without sacrificing comfort. Patrons appreciate the balance of a restaurant and bar feel; it’s not overly formal, which encourages guests to relax and enjoy their time together. The friendly and approachable staff add to this welcoming environment, ensuring that groups feel well taken care of from the moment they walk in. Moreover, The Duplex’s location in a trendy neighborhood adds to its appeal as a meetup destination where groups can start their evening or keep the night going among other nearby hotspots. The outdoor patio further expands the ambiance options, allowing groups to soak in fresh air and enjoy street views while maintaining their circle of friends close by.
What food and drink options make The Duplex ideal for group dining?
One of the standout features of The Duplex is its constantly evolving menu, thanks to its creative system of featuring new chefs and restaurants every six months. This approach means no two visits need to be the same, giving groups a reason to keep coming back to try new offerings together. Currently, the menu boasts Mexican specialties from Lime and Radish, with highlights like the flavorful birria tacos, which are a must-try for taco lovers. Additionally, The Kluckerz serves up excellent fried chicken sandwiches that have earned rave reviews for their crispy textures and well-balanced flavors. Beyond the food, the drink menu is extensive and thoughtfully curated, including signature cocktails such as the fiery Bonfire, which is perfect for groups who enjoy a bold and spicy kick. The Espresso Martini, with an innovative citrus twist, offers a refreshing dessert cocktail option that pairs well after a rich meal. Ordering is streamlined via QR codes at tables, which allows groups to explore the menu at their own pace and easily add various dishes and drinks without waiting for a waiter. This flexibility accommodates diverse tastes and helps keep the group engaged in conversation rather than delayed by service.
Is The Duplex suitable for different types of group occasions?
Absolutely, The Duplex caters to a wide variety of group occasions, whether you’re planning a casual night out, a birthday celebration, a date night with multiple couples, or a laid-back family dinner. Its combination of versatile seating, lively atmosphere, and diverse menu options offers something for everyone. For couples, the romantic lighting and intimate nooks provide a perfect backdrop for connecting, while larger friend groups benefit from the open bar area and communal vibe that invites socializing and shared experiences. The presence of live DJs on select nights adds an element of entertainment that can make events feel special without requiring separate arrangements. Meanwhile, families can appreciate the accommodating staff and menu variety that cater to different age groups and dietary preferences. The Duplex’s large sidewalk patio also offers a flexible outdoor space ideal for those who prefer alfresco dining or want a quieter spot for conversation. Overall, its blend of ambiance, food, and adaptability makes it a venue tailored to the needs of diverse groups aiming to enjoy memorable time together.
What other notable aspects should groups know before visiting The Duplex?
While The Duplex is widely praised for its food, drink, and atmosphere, groups planning to visit should keep a few practical details in mind for the best experience. The seamless QR code ordering system means guests can control their dining pace, but it’s important to ensure everyone in the group is comfortable with digital ordering. The Duplex’s reputation includes high marks for attentive and friendly staff, though there have been occasional reports of less favorable interactions, so guests are advised to approach the experience with open communication and kindness. Pricing reflects the quality of food and craft cocktails, and some guests note the value especially when sampling signature mixed drinks in pitcher sizes ideal for groups. The location in a vibrant urban area means it is easy to combine a visit to The Duplex with nearby bars or cultural spots, making it a good starting or ending point for a fuller night out. Given its popularity, especially on weekend nights with live DJs, booking a reservation in advance is recommended for larger groups to secure space.
In all, The Duplex offers a compelling package for gatherings with friends or family, blending unique culinary experiences, a sociable yet comfortable ambiance, and thoughtful amenities that make hosting a group both enjoyable and effortless. Rally your group here to enjoy diverse flavors, creative cocktails, and a social setting that encourages lively interaction and lasting memories.