When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Folly
Why The Folly is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Folly stands out as an excellent venue for gatherings, especially for those exploring London's historic Tower area. Its convenient location adjacent to the Tower of London and the Monument makes it an ideal stop either before or after sightseeing. The restaurant atmosphere offers a warm welcome with attentive service and well-maintained seating areas, creating a friendly and comfortable environment for friends to catch up. The menu features well-executed dishes such as crispy duck and salmon, which patrons have highlighted for their delicious flavors and presentation. Reasonably priced and freshly prepared, the food at The Folly appeals to both casual diners and those seeking a pleasant yet informal lunch meeting spot in the City. The venue accommodates a relaxed dress code, although door security ensures a certain standard. From tasty meals to a location steeped in the vibrant history of London’s financial district, The Folly combines accessibility with quality, making it a wonderful choice to socialize or enjoy a meal with friends in a lively part of the city.
Here's what people think of The Folly
As of recent, The Folly holds a 4.4-star rating based on 546 reviews.
User reviews largely commend The Folly for its culinary offerings and convivial setting. Positive feedback frequently cites the tasty, well-cooked dishes—particularly the crispy duck and daily salmon special—as standouts. Customers appreciate the reasonable pricing and good portion sizes, which contribute to a satisfying dining experience. The welcoming and friendly service is also commonly noted, with attentive staff helping guests feel comfortable. The convenient location near iconic London landmarks further enhances the appeal for visitors and locals alike. Conversely, some negative reviews point to issues such as confusion over the service charge, which was included without clear communication leading to accidental double tipping, and occasional concerns about dress code enforcement at entry. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains favorable, with most guests expressing a willingness to return. The Folly's blend of quality food, warm atmosphere, and prime locale firmly establishes it as a reliable choice for both informal meetings and social meals in London’s City area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Francesca Cuevas
Owner was super sweet and engaging with customers. Food is amazing especially the fries. The Photo Booth is super cute and fun but definitely would recommend eating here 🙂
Dibo Goodman G7
Tucked away with coastal charm and laid-back vibes, The Folly is the kind of place that turns a casual meal into a mini getaway. From the second you step in, you’re hit with that breezy beach-town energy—easygoing, vibrant, and totally unpretentious. But don’t let the chill atmosphere fool you—this spot knows how to bring serious flavor. Let’s start with the Painkiller—a tropical cocktail that lives up to its name. Made with a smooth blend of rum, pineapple, orange, coconut cream, and just the right touch of nutmeg, it’s the kind of drink that makes you forget your to-do list and contemplate moving somewhere warmer. It’s sweet, strong, and dangerously easy to sip. If paradise had a signature cocktail, this would be it. And then there’s the burger—juicy, bold, and built for indulgence. It’s stacked high with all the classics, but what sets it apart is the attention to detail: perfectly toasted bun, crisp lettuce, melty cheese, and a patty that’s cooked to juicy perfection. It’s the kind of burger that silences the table because everyone’s too busy enjoying every bite. The Folly strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and coastal flair. Whether you’re just stopping by for a drink or settling in for a full meal, it’s got that unforgettable flavor-meets-feel-good combo that keeps you coming back. If you’re looking for a spot that delivers both vibes and taste—this is it.
Lola
Stopped in here for a birthday nightcap for my partner’s special day! We’ve had our eye on the unique nautical design for a while and were so glad we decided to stop in. We were warmly greeted by Justine behind the bar upon arrival, who proceeded to be an absolute gem and huge part of our evening. Such a personable, kind being! We were delighted by the hospitality displayed by both her and the manager, John. They also have a proper photobooth that develops the images old-school style, which is in excellent working condition and provided us with beautiful sweet prints to commemorate our evening. The painkiller was beyond delicious, as were the other cocktails we tried. Overall, we had a wonderful and memorable evening here and will certainly be coming back! Thank you to the team for your caring touches. :)
Amanda Ho Sang
Super chill bar, nautical-themed with affordable drinks: truly a hidden gem. Was able to coordinate with Aron/the staff to make a large group reservation for my birthday in advance; they were super responsive and accommodating. The space they held for us was great for a big group and got tons of compliments. My friends and I loved the vibe and had a fantastic time - would highly recommend!
Olivia N
Overall rating: 4.7 Cute, ship themed cocktail bar. Best solo, with a group of friends or even on a date! I just realized I didn’t take a picture, but the drink I had was not good. I either had the Horn Blower or the Fall in Love and I think the combination of favors didn’t work out. I do like the spot for a Sunday afternoon date or a date spot. There are some seat swings that are so cute. Recommend giving it a try!
How to reach The Folly
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Why The Folly may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Folly with your friends?
If you're looking for the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, The Folly stands out as an exceptional choice. Rated 4.4 stars from over 540 reviews, it offers a compelling mix of ambiance, quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes socializing effortless and enjoyable. Whether you're planning a casual get-together or a special celebration, The Folly’s location near iconic landmarks like the Tower of London adds an extra layer of charm to your visit. Guests often highlight how the friendly and attentive staff make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive, ensuring your group gets a warm welcome. Plus, with no strict dress code—although there is security to maintain a pleasant environment—you and your friends can come as you are without hassle. The Folly’s combination of reasonably priced, well-prepared food and a lively yet relaxed setting creates an inviting space to catch up, share laughs, and enjoy each other's company, making it an ideal destination for memorable group experiences.
What activities and amenities make The Folly great for group meetups?
The Folly caters to a broad range of group preferences, offering activities and amenities that make it ideal for social gatherings. Aside from enjoying delicious meals—fans rave about dishes like crispy duck salads and the day’s fresh salmon offerings—The Folly provides a vibrant bar experience. Happy hour has been praised for great prices and diverse drink selections, including crafted cocktails like the painkiller and a good variety of beers and spirits. This creates the perfect environment for groups that want to relax with a drink and engage in lively conversation. The presence of booths, tables near the bar area, and a casual layout means groups can comfortably sit together without feeling cramped or rushed. Whether you want to host a casual lunch, an informal afternoon meeting, or a laid-back evening hangout, The Folly’s flexible space and friendly vibe support a range of group sizes and occasions. The attentive staff quick to provide great service add to the ease, letting your group focus on having fun.
Why does The Folly’s food menu complement group gatherings?
Sharing a meal is one of the oldest and most cherished ways to bond, and The Folly excels in offering tasty, varied dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Reviews often highlight the quality and presentation of their food, noting that dishes are well-cooked and satisfying. With options such as crispy duck salads, fresh seafood like salmon, and flavorful small plates such as shrimp tacos and ceviche, there’s something for everyone in your group, from light eaters to those seeking a substantial meal. The menu’s balance of classic and slightly adventurous options ensures groups won’t struggle to find something that meets everyone’s preferences. Prices are considered reasonable, adding to the appeal for groups who want a great culinary experience without overspending. By offering a dependable, enjoyable menu alongside its social atmosphere, The Folly naturally encourages sharing and sampling across the table—an ideal scenario for friends or family looking to connect.
How does The Folly’s location enhance the group meetup experience?
Conveniently situated near historical landmarks like the Tower of London and within London’s bustling Monument district, The Folly is perfectly placed to be part of a day or evening out with friends or family. Its location makes it easy to combine visiting local attractions with a memorable meal or drinks afterward. For groups who enjoy exploring first and relaxing later, this is a win-win. The proximity means you can extend your plans effortlessly—go sightseeing during the day and then wind down together at The Folly, making logistics hassle-free for group meetups. Additionally, the lively surrounding area adds energy but The Folly maintains a comfortable atmosphere inside, so your group can enjoy both the buzz of the city and a more intimate setting. Ample transport links nearby also ease arrival and departure for all guests, critical when coordinating larger groups.
What is the atmosphere and service quality like for group visits at The Folly?
For any meetup to be successful, the atmosphere sets the tone and the quality of service can make or break the experience. At The Folly, the consensus among visitors is that the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. The staff are praised for being attentive without being intrusive, creating a space that feels both social and relaxed. The venue’s cleanliness and well-maintained facilities add to the comfortable environment, so your group can focus on the event rather than external concerns. The presence of security ensures a safe and respectful environment, allowing groups to fully enjoy themselves with peace of mind. Whether you’re sitting down after a busy day or gearing up for an evening of fun, The Folly’s combination of attentive service, cleanliness, and relaxed vibe enhances group cohesion and enjoyment.
How does The Folly accommodate different group sizes and occasions?
One of The Folly’s strongest assets is its flexibility in hosting groups of varying sizes and for different occasions. Whether it’s a small family gathering, a casual meetup of friends, or a business lunch, the venue adapts with ease. Its layout includes booths for more intimate groups as well as larger tables that encourage conversation and sharing. Because there is no strict dress code, groups can keep the tone casual or elicit a slightly dressier vibe depending on their preference. This adaptability also extends to the timing of your visit—from lunchtime meetups that prefer a quieter setting to evening gatherings where a livelier mood prevails, The Folly accommodates all. The friendly staff are also known to support groups by managing bookings and helping organize seating to ensure everyone stays comfortable. This makes The Folly not only a social hub but a reliable venue for a range of group events.
What makes The Folly a memorable spot for friends and family gatherings?
Beyond food and location, what truly makes The Folly memorable is its sense of community and the experiences it facilitates. Many visitors return based on positive past visits, reflecting that The Folly leaves a lasting impression with its consistent quality and welcoming atmosphere. The excitement of discovering a spot that blends great prices, tasty food, and excellent drinks with a relaxed yet vibrant ambiance contributes to why groups rally here. It’s a place where friendships are deepened and family bonds strengthened over shared plates and laughter. The Folly’s ability to provide an inclusive space where all feel comfortable—from casual dressers to cocktail enthusiasts—makes it a versatile and cherished location in the city. Hosting your next meetup here means creating a backdrop that encourages connection, fun, and fond memories.
In summary, The Folly is a standout choice for hosting group meetups, bringing together delicious food, drink variety, welcoming staff, and an unbeatable location in London. Whether it’s a casual weekday lunch or a weekend celebration, The Folly offers a setting that effortlessly accommodates groups and facilitates memorable social experiences.