When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
The Gladly
Why The Gladly is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Gladly is a standout restaurant located in the vibrant Biltmore neighborhood of Phoenix, known for its welcoming atmosphere and bold New-American cuisine. This contemporary eatery offers a perfect setting for friends to gather, whether for a casual happy hour or a celebratory dinner. Signature to The Gladly is its world-famous Original Chopped Salad, a dish that has become iconic and widely imitated but never matched, featuring an intricate mix of corn, couscous, smoked salmon, asiago cheese, pepitas, tomatoes, arugula, and currants in a buttermilk pesto dressing. The menu also includes prime steaks, fresh seafood, creative seasonal dishes, and an array of starters such as the popular Crab Cakes and Yellowtail Tacos, appealing to diverse palates including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
In addition to the exceptional food, The Gladly boasts an award-winning beverage program with over 350 whiskey selections and an extensive cocktail list, making its bar a destination for both whiskey connoisseurs and casual drinkers. The restaurant’s refined yet approachable décor and attentive service create a polished and welcoming environment ideal for all occasions—from business lunches to intimate private dining experiences. The Gladly is deeply integrated into the local community, partnering with Arizona farms and small businesses, making it not only a dining venue but a cherished neighborhood landmark. Whether meeting friends for a laid-back brunch or celebrating a milestone event, The Gladly offers an inviting, lively setting with diverse menu highlights and a renowned drinks program, ensuring a memorable experience for all guests.
Here's what people think of The Gladly
As of recent, The Gladly holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1696 reviews.
Reviews of The Gladly consistently reflect a strong appreciation for its flavorful food, warm hospitality, and sophisticated ambiance. Many guests praise the restaurant’s iconic Original Chopped Salad as a must-try dish that keeps them coming back. Positive feedback frequently applauds the creative and well-executed menu by Chef Bernie Kantak and his team, highlighting dishes like the Crab Cakes with avocado butter and the Yellowtail Tacos as standout items. Reviewers also commend the extensive whiskey selection and cocktail offerings, which elevate the dining experience for many visitors. The attentive, professional service and comfortable yet polished setting further enhance patrons' enjoyment, making it a favored spot for business lunches, celebrations, and casual gatherings alike.
On the negative side, some reviews mention the parking situation behind the building as a minor inconvenience and occasional wait times during busy hours, suggesting reservations are advisable. A few customers have remarked on pricing relative to portion size, though these comments are less common overall. Despite minor critiques, the majority of guest experiences reflect satisfaction with the food quality, drink selections, and friendly service.
In conclusion, the reviews portray The Gladly as a highly regarded Phoenix restaurant and whiskey bar that excels in delivering innovative New-American cuisine combined with an exceptional beverage program. Its reputation for consistency, ambiance, and community involvement makes it a top choice for locals and visitors seeking a memorable dining experience in the Biltmore area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kira Sic
The atmosphere is great, very comfortable, inviting, and decorated well. The space is a little smaller, and there is not much room to walk between tables when folks are sitting, but it doesn't ruin the experience. The food was delicious! For an appetizer we got the burrata, so good! For a main dish I got the salmon, it was one of the better salmon dishes I have had in a long time. I don't usually eat the salmon skin but it was cooked to perfection on this dish, I ate it all. The cocktails were delicious as well, I enjoyed the espresso martini and a dirty martini with blue cheese olives. Yum!! The service was great, very attentive, and friendly. We will be back!
carter kabot
Last week I went to The Galdly with some friends for a going away party and had a great time! We had an amazing server who joked with us but also gave us some great recommendations and described every dish perfectly. The service and ambiance is perfect for any occasion from a birthday dinner to a fancy date night. To start we got the crudo which was very tender and topped with a delicious cucumber salad. I could’ve eaten multiple plates of this appetizer! The spinach dip was also the best I have ever had, I would go back just for this side. My herb crusted chicken was served on top of a Parmesan mushroom risotto that was rich but not too filling, perfect for a side with the chicken. The chicken was juicy and cooked just right, an all around amazing dish.
Michelle C
The atmosphere is very nice and open. We went around early evening around happy hour time. Our server was very attentive. As the starter, we got the cutino sweet heat wings which had a good flavor profile and were nicely cooked. It was also nice and steamy when we got it. The pesto dressing is good but does have more of a ranch flavor to it. For the main course, we ordered the herb roasted chicken and the wester Ross Scottish salmon. The salmon was delicious through and through with an amazing crunchy skin. To finish off dinner, we had a blood orange sorbet which was also good. It's an uncommon flavor and it seems like they change out the flavors occasionally.
Macy Judkins
The two times ive gone to the gladly now have both been excellent. The vibe of the restaurant is so fun while also relaxed. It's the kind of place you want to stay at for a while and enjoy yourself. The drinks are delicious, as is the food. The green Chile artichoke dip was a standout. Our server was fun and friendly as well. Our group got everything we needed and more. Highly recommend.
Walter Besio
It was a beautiful evening, so we sat outside. The service was excellent. I got an espresso martini while I was waiting for my friend and they had them prepared already in a slushy machine. The bartender remembered my name when I came back by after dinner. My halibut was spectacular, crispy and scrumptious, as you can tell from the picture. We also got Thai margaritas for dinner. They had a nice spice coating around the rim. The lamb lollipops appetizer was to kill for, well I wouldn’t kill, but you know what I mean.😂 In all, I will definitely go to the Gladly the next time I’m in town. I’m curious if she will still remember my name….
How to reach The Gladly
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Why The Gladly may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Gladly with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family calls for a venue that combines delicious food, a welcoming atmosphere, and memorable experiences, and The Gladly in Phoenix, Arizona, stands out as an excellent choice for such occasions. This restaurant boasts a strong rating of 4.7 from nearly 1,700 reviews, signaling widespread satisfaction and consistent quality. The Gladly offers a perfect balance between a laid-back yet stylish ambiance—spacious enough to host lively group conversations but intimate enough to feel special. Its commitment to attentive, friendly service ensures your group will feel well taken care of from the moment you arrive. Moreover, The Gladly’s culinary offerings go beyond ordinary dining with its innovative New American and eclectic dishes, making every meal an event to savor and talk about. The extensive whiskey selection and craft cocktails add an extra level of enjoyment that complements the food and sparks conviviality. For anyone looking to create shared memories over great food and drinks, The Gladly provides the space, menu, and vibe that transform a simple meal into a gathering worth repeating.
What activities does The Gladly offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
The Gladly’s appeal for group meetups stretches far beyond just great food. For starters, its spacious dining area includes options for semi-private and fully private rooms that can accommodate anywhere from 30 to 60 guests—ideal for birthdays, reunions, or business celebrations. The semi-private mezzanine provides an elevated space for groups seeking a cozy yet exclusive setting, while the private banquet room offers a sense of complete privacy and personalized service, allowing groups to customize their experience. Beyond dining, the restaurant’s impressive whiskey bar features over 250 varieties, along with crafted ice balls that elevate cocktail presentation and enjoyment, perfectly suited to social sipping and conversations that last. With both indoor and outdoor seating, including heated patios, The Gladly adjusts to your group's preferences and the season. The environment is casual yet refined, making it welcoming for various group sizes and occasions. This combination of versatile spaces, quality drinks, and stellar service ensures every group gathering feels thoughtfully catered to, encouraging interaction and connection.
Why is the food at The Gladly ideal for sharing among friends?
Food lies at the heart of any great meetup, and The Gladly excels here by serving globally inspired New American cuisine crafted by renowned Chef Bernie Kantak. The menu highlights shareable plates like the Original Chopped Salad, which has achieved a local cult following due to its unique blend of fresh ingredients and complex flavors. This salad alone makes a perfect starter to share and ignite lively conversation around the table. Other standout dishes include the “Pigstrami” sandwich, richly flavorful duck meatloaf, and scallops served on sweet corn grits—each offering distinctive tastes that invite guests to sample a variety of textures and flavors. The imaginative dessert menu, with options such as the peach cobbler made with cornmeal cake, keeps the experience exciting and end on a sweet note perfect for group indulgence. For groups with specific dietary needs, The Gladly’s staff is known for being accommodating and knowledgeable, ensuring all guests find satisfying options. This focus on culinary creativity and inclusivity enhances the shared dining experience, making food not only delicious but a communal celebration.
How does the atmosphere and service at The Gladly enhance group experiences?
The atmosphere at The Gladly skillfully walks the line between contemporary urban chic and warm hospitality. The spacious, light-filled dining room is anchored by floor-to-ceiling windows and a vibrant central bar, setting a tone that feels both upscale and approachable. The decor is minimal but thoughtfully designed, supporting an environment conducive to easy conversation and relaxation. Reviews consistently praise the service staff as highly professional, attentive, and friendly—qualities that significantly contribute to an enjoyable group gathering by anticipating needs and maintaining a smooth flow. Whether your group is seated inside the main room, on the inviting heated patio, or in a private dining area, the staff’s expertise in coordinating and accommodation shines through. This combination of refined atmosphere and superior service makes The Gladly not only a place to eat but a destination where social connections are nurtured and celebrated.
What special features make The Gladly suitable for celebrations and private events?
The Gladly’s versatility extends to hosting celebrations and private events with a level of sophistication and ease. Not only does it offer dedicated private rooms—like the semi-private mezzanine and the fully private banquet room, which can host from medium-sized gatherings to larger parties—but its highly professional event coordination team ensures every detail aligns with the hosts’ wishes. Past guests have lauded the restaurant for seamlessly accommodating special occasions such as rehearsal dinners and New Year’s Eve parties, emphasizing smooth planning and flawless on-the-day service. Additionally, The Gladly maintains reserved parking spaces specifically for guests, avoiding the hassle of distant or inconvenient parking, an important convenience for organized events. The flexibility in dress code, welcoming kid-friendly options, outdoor dining, and an extensive bar make it a venue suitable for almost any celebration type—from casual reunions to milestone anniversaries. The Gladly’s ability to blend great food, stunning settings, and efficient event management makes it an outstanding choice for making your next group celebration truly memorable.
Why is The Gladly a reliable choice for quality and consistency?
In a dining scene that often fluctuates, The Gladly has established a reputation for dependability regarding food quality and service, which is crucial when planning group gatherings. The restaurant’s 4.7-star rating across a significant number of reviews reflects consistent praise for its delicious and creative menu offerings, alongside outstanding hospitality. Notably, many returning guests and event hosts commend the Gladly team for delivering the same high standards each visit, providing assurance that every meal will meet expectations regardless of occasion size. This reliability extends to accommodating dietary restrictions smoothly and thoughtfully, so groups can focus on enjoying their time together without concern. Trusted by locals and visitors alike, The Gladly offers a level of consistency that reduces the stress of meal planning for groups, knowing the experience will be excellent in every dimension—food, service, and atmosphere.
The Gladly is a top-tier dining destination for group meetups, celebrated for its innovative New American menu, world-class whiskey selection, and flexible private spaces. Whether you seek a casual meal with friends, a festive family celebration, or a stylish business event, The Gladly’s combination of tasteful environment, dedicated service, and culinary excellence makes it a standout venue. Groups will appreciate the inviting ambiance, shareable dishes, and attentive staff that together create an unforgettable rallying point in Phoenix’s vibrant culinary scene.