When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
The Forum Cocktail Co
Why The Forum Cocktail Co is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Forum Cocktail Co is a distinguished craft cocktail destination located at The Works development in Atlanta's Upper Westside. Spanning 3,000 square feet, it offers a unique blend of expertly crafted cocktails and a sophisticated dining experience. The venue boasts a hidden 500-square-foot speakeasy called The Midnight Room, providing an intimate setting perfect for special gatherings or a night out with friends. Executive Chef Veronica Cass, formerly of Nobu Atlanta, curates a menu of small plates designed to perfectly complement the cocktail offerings. Guests can indulge in an eclectic selection of dishes such as charcuterie, street fries with crema de aji, heirloom tomato with goat cheese, and Mama’s Meatballs with burrata cheese. The interior, designed with care by Jordan Evans interior design team, features a bespoke atmosphere with stunning crystal chandeliers and a cozy fireplace lounge area. The layout encourages social engagement, with a bar at the front and a hidden speakeasy accessible through a cleverly designed secret entrance. This combination of ambiance, craft drinks, and upscale casual dining makes The Forum Cocktail Co a great spot to meet friends, spark memorable conversations, and enjoy a refined yet vibrant evening.
Here's what people think of The Forum Cocktail Co
As of recent, The Forum Cocktail Co holds a 3.5-star rating based on 165 reviews.
Reviews for The Forum Cocktail Co show a mixture of appreciation and critique, overall averaging a 3.5-star rating based on 165 reviews. Visitors frequently praise the exceptional service and the quality of the food and cocktails, highlighting the carefully curated menu that transports guests to earlier eras with a modern twist. Positive reviews commonly mention the alluring atmosphere, especially the intimate and exclusive feel of the hidden speakeasy, the Midnight Room. Many guests appreciate the thoughtful design and the comfortable lounge seating around the fireplace, which enhances the social experience. Additionally, the skillful cocktail creations by Bar Manager Nick Reed and the owners receive consistent acclaim. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around inconsistencies in service during busy hours and occasional wait times for seating, particularly on weekends. A few reviewers also note that the concept, being relatively new since its June 2023 opening, is still refining its flow and guest experience. In conclusion, The Forum Cocktail Co is well-regarded for its innovative craft cocktail approach and inviting ambiance but may require further operational smoothing to fully satisfy all patrons consistently. The promise of a memorable, stylish night out remains strong, attracting guests looking for a unique and engaging venue in Atlanta.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maleka M (Muse Maleka)
Linda, Mariam, Serena, & Vida was so awesome! The vibe & atmosphere was great! The drinks were great! Me & my friends felt welcome! I appreciate Linda for the dehydrated fruits with my drinks! Will come again!
Angel Michelle
Beautiful establishment with friendly staff. Full bar with limited food menu. Dj was playing amazing music, and the vibe was lowkey and cute. Our server was extremely cute, personable, and on point (I believe her name was Brook). Bathrooms were clean, stocked, and well lit. Parking was free for 2 hours. I have no complaints and would likely return if the opportunity presented itself.
Cru Morrow
Disappointing Experience Not Worth the Hype I had high hopes for The Forum Cocktail Co but unfortunately, my experience fell flat. The bartender was extremely dry, completely lacking personality and basic hospitality skills. No smile, no conversation, not even a simple “welcome” or “thank you” just cold, transactional service that made the entire visit feel uninviting. To make matters worse, I ordered Truffle fries from the menu, expecting something elevated to match the upscale ambiance. Instead, I was served what could only be described as $17 kroger brand frozen fries bland, soggy, and absolutely not worth the price. Between the underwhelming service and overpriced, unimpressive food it left a lot to be. There are too many other spots in the city that know how to treat their guests and serve quality fare.
Tyeara Bradley
We reserved a spot for 10:30, it was almost 1 hour and a half b4 we got our table! The vibes were great, hotess gave us a glass of champagne for the wait! Will definitely be back.
Matt Grimaldi
This review is for the Speakeasy in the back of the main bar. When we first went, the concept was great. You could speak to the bartenders about what you did and did not like, they'd follow up with more questions and specially craft a cocktail for you based on the conversation. That would get five out of five. However, that concept is no longer the norm. The speakeasy in the back has just turned into a standard cocktail bar, losing what made it special. While the drinks were still good, the place now serves overpriced cocktails with less uniqueness and draw.
How to reach The Forum Cocktail Co
None
Website: None
Why The Forum Cocktail Co may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Forum Cocktail Co with your friends?
Gathering at The Forum Cocktail Co is an exceptional choice for reconnecting with friends because it offers a uniquely sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere that inspires conversation and celebration. Located in Atlanta, this cocktail bar distinguishes itself through an elegant design that combines a posh feel with inviting creativity, making it perfect for group meetups that aim to be memorable. Whether you want to kick off a night out or unwind after a long day, The Forum provides a lively social setting where the energy feels just right—not too loud to talk, but buzzing enough to feel special. The personalized service is another highlight; bartenders like Chris, David, and Alex craft inventive cocktails tailored to individual tastes, adding a bespoke dimension to your evening that shows genuine care and expertise. Their attention to detail—from the carefully prepared small plates like twin lobster tails to the atmosphere of their exclusive speakeasy area—makes every visit an experience rather than just a night out. This combination of excellent drinks, intimate ambiance, and friendly staff creates the perfect backdrop for a fun, engaging, and sophisticated evening with your closest friends or family.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at The Forum Cocktail Co?
The Forum Cocktail Co offers a range of activities centered around its core of excellent cocktail creation and social atmosphere. The primary draw is its immersive cocktail experience where patrons can watch expert bartenders craft personalized drinks using inventive techniques and fresh ingredients. This is not just about ordering standard cocktails; it’s an interactive opportunity to explore flavors and mixology arts. Guests can also enjoy a variety of tapas or small plates that perfectly complement their drinks, such as the highly praised twin lobster tails, providing a gastronomic element to the gathering. For groups interested in a more intimate vibe, The Forum features a speakeasy section, which delivers a cozy, exclusive feel reminiscent of the 1920s Prohibition era. This hidden part of the bar offers quiet conversation and unique cocktails made with extra attention by seasoned mixologists. Additionally, the venue occasionally hosts live music or DJs, elevating the night’s energy and offering an entertaining soundtrack without overpowering social interaction. All these activities work together to make The Forum Cocktail Co a versatile venue—ideal for casual catch-ups, celebrations, and even meaningful conversations over artfully prepared drinks.
Why is The Forum Cocktail Co perfect for a group meetup?
The Forum Cocktail Co is especially suited for group meetups due to its welcoming yet upscale ambiance, which balances comfort with a sense of occasion. The spacious layout includes both a main bar area and a more secluded speakeasy that can accommodate different group sizes and moods, allowing for flexibility depending on whether you want to be in the thick of the social scene or tucked away in a more private nook. Its staff excels at providing impeccable service that personalizes each group’s experience—bartenders deliver not only expert drink mixing but genuine hospitality that makes every guest feel special. This level of care is crucial when grouping with friends or family because it ensures the gathering flows smoothly without stress or delays. The variety of creative cocktails, paired with delicious tapas, means there’s something for every palate and preference, which is often a challenge in groups. Located conveniently in Atlanta’s chic and vibrant neighborhood, it’s easy to access and to continue an evening out afterward. All these factors create an atmosphere where groups can relax, enjoy quality time together, and make lasting memories.
What kind of food and drink options are available for groups?
The Forum Cocktail Co is known for its creative cocktail menu that goes beyond the typical, offering drinks that are both inventive and tailored to the guests’ tastes. Bartenders at The Forum are true mixologists who customize drinks by incorporating fresh, high-quality ingredients and artistic presentations that make ordering cocktails an experience, not just a transaction. This is ideal for groups because it adds a fun, exploratory element where everyone can share and compare distinct concoctions. On the food side, the menu focuses on tapas or small plates designed to complement the diverse array of cocktails. Notably, dishes like the twin lobster tails are standout choices praised for their fresh flavors and skillful preparation, which add a touch of luxury to the gathering. These dishes encourage sharing, making the meal communal and conducive to a social dining experience. The combination of sophisticated drinks and flavorful small bites caters to diverse dietary preferences within a group while maintaining a consistent quality that elevates the whole meetup.
What makes the atmosphere and setting of The Forum Cocktail Co unique?
The Forum Cocktail Co’s atmosphere is a meticulously crafted blend of creativity, comfort, and sophistication. The interior design features luxurious seating and artistic décor that evoke a feeling of stepping into an exclusive, stylish retreat, distinguishing it from more typical bars or lounges. The lighting and music create a posh, yet relaxed environment where conversations are easy and the vibe is engaging without being overwhelming. One of the venue’s unique aspects is its speakeasy—an exclusive, hidden section that transports guests back to the glamour and mystery of the 1920s, offering a more intimate and quiet setting for smaller groups or those looking to savor their cocktails in a refined space. The main bar area, meanwhile, buzzes with creative energy, making it a lively space for friends to mingle and enjoy the craftsmanship of cocktail mixing. The attention to ambiance shows a clear intention to make every visit a special occasion, which appeals to groups seeking more than a basic night out.
How accessible and accommodating is The Forum Cocktail Co for group gatherings?
The Forum Cocktail Co demonstrates strong accessibility and accommodation for groups, contributing further to its appeal as a meetup destination. The venue operates mostly in the evenings with extended hours on weekends, allowing groups to plan meetups that fit into busy schedules or transition into late-night celebrations. The staff’s reputedly friendly and attentive service ensures that group needs — such as seating arrangements, drink preferences, and food orders — are professionally managed to deliver a hassle-free experience. Additionally, the venue’s location in Atlanta's vibrant social scene makes it easily reachable via multiple transportation options, facilitating group coordination. Pricing is on the higher side ($$$), which aligns with the quality of service and exclusivity but also means groups can expect premium experience rather than casual or quick drinks. This pricing and atmosphere tend to attract groups looking for an elevated experience, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or groups seeking a stylish night out together.
What do reviewers say about the group experience at The Forum Cocktail Co?
Customer reviews highlight The Forum Cocktail Co as a place where service, ambience, and drink quality combine to create a memorable group experience. Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable and welcoming bartenders who not only craft exceptional cocktails but engage with patrons in a way that feels personalized and genuine. This enhances the group dynamic by adding a layer of interaction and surprise to the night, with drinks tailored to individual tastes. The comfortable yet posh atmosphere receives compliments for striking just the right balance—not too formal, but polished enough to feel upscale. Many also mention the speakeasy section as a special touch that adds exclusivity and intimacy to group outings. Some feedback notes moderate noise levels, suitable for conversation without deadening the bar’s lively vibe. While prices are noted as higher, the consensus leans toward value for money given the quality and experience. Overall, reviews indicate that The Forum is a strongly recommended venue for groups wanting an engaging, fun, and stylish night out.
How can you make the most of a group meetup at The Forum Cocktail Co?
To maximize a group meetup at The Forum Cocktail Co, plan for a reservation since this popular spot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving as a group allows you to secure seating that encourages mingling, whether in the main bar or the speakeasy. Engage with the bartenders early on to explore cocktail options that suit everyone’s preferences, and consider ordering a variety of small plates for sharing to enhance the communal dining experience. Taking advantage of the speakeasy’s unique atmosphere can offer quieter moments for personal conversations amidst the buzz. Consider coordinating transportation arrangements in advance to avoid logistical issues since the venue’s location and late hours lend themselves well to ride services or designated drivers. Finally, treat the visit as an experience: savor the creativity of the cocktails and the ambiance, making the meetup memorable beyond the usual bar outing.
With its creative cocktails, inviting yet sophisticated atmosphere, attentive service, and unique speakeasy experience, The Forum Cocktail Co stands out as an excellent destination for group gatherings. Whether you are toasting a special occasion or simply enjoying quality time with friends or family, it offers an elevated, curated environment designed to foster connection and celebration. Its combination of artistry in mixology and culinary delights coupled with comfortable, stylish surroundings make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a memorable, high-quality meetup spot in Atlanta.