When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The Joinery
Why The Joinery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Joinery stands out as a distinctive venue and gathering space celebrated for its versatility and warm, community-oriented atmosphere. Whether in Chicago or Lakeland, The Joinery presents itself as an excellent place to meet up with friends, enjoy quality food, and host memorable events such as weddings. Its design is often praised for being visually beautiful and requiring minimal additional decoration, which enhances the ease and elegance of gatherings. The venue’s management is noted for kindness, professionalism, and flexibility, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for guests and event planners alike. In addition to event hosting, The Joinery in Lakeland incorporates a unique food hall concept with diverse options like pizza, street tacos, and a full bar, offering a fun and social dining experience. The presence of additional shops, such as a flower shop, adds to the venue’s charm and community feel. Overall, The Joinery combines thoughtfully crafted spaces, attentive staff, and a variety of amenities, making it a great destination for socializing, celebrations, and casual meetups.
Here's what people think of The Joinery
As of recent, The Joinery holds a 4.7-star rating based on 151 reviews.
User reviews across different locations consistently highlight The Joinery’s positive atmosphere and excellent service. Many guests commend the knowledgeable and helpful management team, particularly noting how flexible and responsive they are to various needs during events. Couples choosing The Joinery for weddings mention feeling confident and supported throughout the planning process, appreciating the venue’s inherent beauty and the minimal need for extra decoration. The quality of service frequently receives top marks, with average ratings around 4.6 to 5.0 out of 5, indicating strong overall satisfaction. On the food and dining side, visitors to The Joinery's Lakeland location enjoy the variety and uniqueness of the food hall concept that offers multiple culinary choices and a lively social environment. Positive reviews emphasize the supportive and friendly coworkers and management even from an employment perspective, reinforcing the venue's community focus. However, some negative feedback includes concerns about pricing, particularly relating to food costs not matching expectations for value and speed of service at the food court. A few reviewers also mention the limitations inherent in a smaller, locally focused business, such as fewer advancement opportunities in employment. Despite minor criticisms, the broad consensus is that The Joinery delivers a memorable, high-quality experience worth recommending for both hosting special occasions and casual gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Tristan Hughes
The Joinery was great to work with, affordable, and the most beautiful venue we looked at. We felt little need to add much additional decoration because the space itself had such a great aesthetic. The space is filled with natural light and was lovely in the day and at night. It rained a little on our wedding day and honestly it didn’t even matter because the venue has extremely flexible indoor and outdoor space that never felt too packed or crammed. Shay Schultz was also extremely responsive via email and helped us stay on track in getting our vendors lined up in the year leading up to our wedding. She gave us great recommendations that we ended up going with for all but one of our vendors, including our month of coordinator. We were thrilled with all of our vendors and the wedding day went even more smoothly because everyone was familiar with the venue. Shay was also extremely helpful and involved on the day and stayed to make sure everything went smoothly until well after dinner. She helped ensure everything was set up, that staff knew what to do and where to go, and that the place was put together beautifully with the help of some of our friends. Could not have asked for a better venue.
Morgan Pifer
We couldn't have found a better place to get married and celebrate our next chapter with all our favorite people than The Joinery. Shay, the venue manager, is so incredibly kind, helpful, and knowledgable. From answering all our questions timely, to helping us find the perfect vendors, to finalizing every detail, Shay and The Joinery team were truly amazing! The venue is a space that we were able to make our own and highlight our journey as a couple. The entire venue is quite spacious and has lots of places for guests and personals. From the speakeasy upstairs, the multiple options for cocktail hour, and the private room after the ceremony to take a breather, everything is thought out and flows so nicely. Additionally, there were so many amenities included that we didn't find anywhere else we looked. I will forever be so grateful to Shay and The Joinery!
Christine Feliciano
Absolutely gorgeous venue in the heart of the city. Awesome staff. They even have a room where you can spend the night.
Mia Voehringer
All night long, my husband and I were told: this is the best wedding EVER. And that is thanks to our amazing vendors and our INCREDIBLE venue, The Joinery. The space could not be more ideal - its beautiful, spacious, and so thoughtfully crafted. The upstairs Speakeasy and apartment for the couple to stay in throughout the night provided the perfect respite for guests (especially those with little kids) while the indoor/outdoor space is beautiful and also gives guests another option if they need a break from the dance floor (while being the perfect setting for cocktail hour.) Shay, the venue manager, was so helpful throughout the whole process in helping us select a fantastic vendor team. Molly, the bar coordinator, was incredible - so kind and so helpful. The drinks were flowing all night long and the Joinery team makes it so easy. Last but not least, the Mill House next door is a beautiful, huge AirBnb which was ideal for out of town family!! EVERYONE had a blast and its because the Joinery offers so much thoughtful space for any guests needs. Thank you to Shay, Molly, and the whole team!!
Rachel Smetana
We got married at The Joinery at the end of May (65 guests), and it was an amazing experience. From our first inquiry, the venue coordinator, Shay, was incredible to work with. She is incredibly knowledgeable about the space and weddings in general and has lots of insight on what works well in the space. She was fast to respond via email and I never felt silly asking her a question. The venue rental price included all of the furniture we needed plus multiple other fixtures (arch, donut wall) which was a huge plus. The space itself is gorgeous. It has lots of character on its own, but is also able to be customized for each event/couple. We also liked having the option to rent the house next door for the night before and night of the wedding. We were able to sleep there the night before, got ready there, and it served as a gathering place for our wedding party & family. On our wedding day, everything went perfectly. Shay worked seamlessly with our vendors throughout the day. A little bonus was that she also posted on their instagram throughout the day and we had lots of fun looking through it all the next day. 🙂 We also used the Joinery’s in house bar package (which is optional!). We had a private tasting beforehand, and the drinks that Molly created were absolutely delicious. The staff day of were equally incredible. Overall, the Joinery was absolutely incredible! Their staff exceeded all our expectations, and I am beyond grateful we chose them for our wedding venue. Without hesitation, I would recommend the Joinery to anyone planning their special day!
How to reach The Joinery
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Why The Joinery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Joinery with your friends?
The Joinery offers an exceptional gathering spot that goes beyond just a typical meetup venue. With a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 150 reviews, it proves to be a trusted and beloved destination for groups seeking a fun, memorable, and relaxed atmosphere. Located in Lakeland, this venue boasts sweeping views of the iconic Lake Mirror, which provides a stunning backdrop that adds charm and serenity to any gathering. Whether you are planning a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or just an afternoon outing, The Joinery strikes the perfect balance between an inviting vibe and diverse culinary options. Its vibrant and trendy environment is widely appreciated as being “ahead of the game” in Lakeland’s social scene, making it perfect for friends and family to come together in style. The flexibility of multiple food and beverage vendors ensures everyone’s tastes are satisfied without the hassle of compromise, while the attentive staff and easy-going atmosphere make everyone feel welcomed and well taken care of. Choosing The Joinery means choosing a place where good times and great conversations naturally flourish amongst friends and loved ones.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at The Joinery?
The Joinery is not just a restaurant or a bar; it’s a dynamic venue designed to cater to a variety of group occasions. First and foremost, it functions as a food hall with multiple independent vendors serving diverse cuisines. The available food choices range from fresh sushi to hearty pizza, spicy Mexican dishes, and flavorful ramen, allowing groups with varied palates to each pick their favorites. The ice cream shop “Mayday” is particularly famous for its delightful offerings, loved by both kids and adults alike. Beyond dining, the venue’s location overlooking Lake Mirror’s scenic waterfront offers a peaceful place to relax and stroll before or after your meal. This makes it ideal for groups who want to mix good food with gentle outdoor activity. The venue’s layout is spacious and clean, featuring tables and seating arrangements conducive to both lively chats and more intimate moments. Occasionally, The Joinery hosts community events and group meetups, which can further enrich the experience with live music or social mixers to get everyone engaged. The environment is “cool, calm, collected, and rad,” giving your group a trendy yet comfortable setting to create lasting memories.
Why is The Joinery perfect for hosting group meetups?
From logistical ease to overall ambiance, The Joinery ticks all the boxes for a successful group gathering location. The multiple food vendor options eliminate the common problem of catering to diverse food preferences, ensuring no one feels left out. This flexibility encourages everyone to try something new or stick with their favorites, which is a significant convenience for groups with mixed tastes or dietary needs. Additionally, the venue's supportive and friendly staff enhance the experience by providing attentive service without hovering, allowing guests to focus fully on their company. The spacious layout means groups do not feel cramped or rushed, fostering casual conversations and social bonding. The views of Lake Mirror contribute a unique aesthetic element that elevates the mood, making events feel special and scenic rather than just routine meetups. Moreover, the reviews reflect that the atmosphere is consistently welcoming and lively, making The Joinery an ideal choice whether you are celebrating a milestone or simply gathering for a casual night out. For families, the choice of ice cream and varied menu makes it a spot that appeals to all ages seamlessly.
What makes the food options at The Joinery stand out for groups?
One of the standout features of The Joinery is its variety of food and drink choices available through multiple vendors, all under one roof. This setup is perfect for groups because it removes the common dilemma of unanimous food selection. From sushi lovers seeking fresh seafood rolls to pizza fans craving a classic pie, and those desiring rich, comforting ramen to the ones who want fiery Mexican dishes, everyone can customize their meal. This diversity caters well to different dietary restrictions and tastes, enhancing the group dining experience by making sure everyone can enjoy what they love. The ice cream parlor is a delightful dessert option that adds an extra layer of fun and indulgence, especially popular with families and younger guests. The vendors are known for quality and freshness, making sure the food experience reflects the venue’s overall high standards. This variety not only caters to diverse tastes but also allows groups to sample small dishes from different vendors, promoting sharing and interaction among friends.
How does The Joinery’s ambiance support a great social experience?
The Joinery’s ambiance is a critical factor in its popularity as a group meetup spot. Its location along Lake Mirror creates an aesthetically pleasing environment filled with natural light and scenic views that soothe and energize guests. The contemporary design of the venue merges urban chic with warm, inviting elements, creating a space that feels trendy yet approachable. Visitors often describe the vibe as “cool, calm, collected, and rad”—a place that simultaneously offers enhanced comfort and a pulse on current social and culinary trends. Seating arrangements support both large groups and smaller, intimate conversations, giving attendees freedom to mingle or focus on close-knit discussions. The venue’s cleanliness and well-maintained facilities further add to the enjoyment and pride of visiting. Another element contributing to the positive atmosphere is the friendly, attentive staff renowned for making guests feel comfortable and valued without overwhelming service interference. The Joinery’s role as a community hub is accentuated by occasional events and a festive, welcoming energy, encouraging connections beyond just dining.
What do customer reviews and ratings reveal about The Joinery’s group experience?
With an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 150 reviews, customer feedback strongly supports The Joinery as an excellent venue for group gatherings. Reviewers frequently praise the variety and quality of food offerings as a major draw for bringing friends together. The venue’s scenic location overlooking Lake Mirror is noted as a joyful backdrop that enhances any occasion. Patrons also highlight the relaxed yet stylish vibe, describing it as a local hotspot that stays ahead in Lakeland’s dining and social scene. The friendly, accommodating service team is another recurring theme in positive reviews, emphasizing their role in creating a smooth, enjoyable visit. Several reviews note the venue’s cleanliness and well-kept environment. Constructive feedback, if any, tends to focus on vendor-specific issues rather than the overall venue experience, underlining how the multi-vendor model adds value and choice. Overall, The Joinery is acclaimed as a place where groups can confidently meet for casual or special occasions while enjoying diverse food, beautiful surroundings, and a welcoming social atmosphere.
What practical features make The Joinery ideal for groups and meetups?
In addition to its appealing food, atmosphere, and location, The Joinery offers several practical advantages for group meetups. The multiple vendor concept translates to shorter wait times and faster service because guests order from separate counters instead of one kitchen crowded with large orders. The open layout means groups can easily move around to visit different food stations or mingle without being packed in. The venue also supports flexibility regarding group sizes, able to accommodate families, friend groups, or even small corporate gatherings comfortably. The staff’s helpfulness extends to managing group seating or special requests, ensuring meetups run smoothly. Additionally, the venue’s central location in Lakeland near downtown makes it accessible by car or public transportation, easing travel for attendees. Parking availability near the location further simplifies logistics for groups. These practical considerations blend seamlessly with The Joinery’s charming setting and food variety, making it not only a pleasant but also a convenient choice for meetups.
How can The Joinery elevate special celebrations among friends or family?
The Joinery’s blend of scenic views, diverse culinary options, and stylish yet relaxed ambiance creates a perfect setting for marking important occasions with friends and family. Birthdays, reunions, anniversaries, or casual achievements can feel elevated simply by holding them at this venue. The ability to accommodate various dietary preferences means no guest feels left out, and the option to combine different cuisines means celebrations can be customized to the group’s unique tastes. The picturesque Lake Mirror view adds an elegant, memorable atmosphere to photos and moments shared. The friendly, professional staff can assist with making your event run smoothly, while the flexible seating arrangement allows for decorating or bringing in small extras to tailor the environment. This combination of thoughtful details ensures celebrations feel personally meaningful and enjoyable. Furthermore, the venue’s vibrant energy and varied crowd create a festive yet comfortable backdrop, enhancing joy and connection on special days.
What makes The Joinery a noteworthy business in the Lakeland community?
Apart from being a popular dining and social spot, The Joinery has earned respect as a community-conscious business that contributes positively to Lakeland. Its commitment to providing a safe, comfortable environment where local people can gather has won it loyal patrons and repeat visits. Local reviews consistently acknowledge The Joinery as “ahead of the game” in terms of style, service, and food variety, setting a standard for other venues. The venue’s role as a hub for social events and occasional activities reflects an engagement with the surrounding community, encouraging a shared cultural and culinary experience. Feedback from former employees highlights a supportive management and collaborative work environment, indicating that The Joinery values its team as much as its customers. This holistic approach enriches the community fabric by offering a place where people work well and come together to enjoy themselves, making The Joinery not just a business but a vital Lakeland institution.
Why do employees rate working at The Joinery highly?
Working at The Joinery is considered a highly positive experience by the staff, which translates into better service and a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Reviews show that management is supportive, stepping in to help during busy times and respecting employees’ schedules, creating a flexible and respectful workplace. Team members frequently mention the collaborative environment where coworkers enjoy their work and feel proud of producing high-quality results, whether that’s in food preparation or venue management. This positive internal culture contributes to a smooth customer experience, as happy employees tend to offer friendlier and more attentive service. Furthermore, staff comment on the fairness of pay and good benefits, adding to overall job satisfaction. The commitment to safety and employee well-being stands out as a core value, helping maintain a stable, motivated workforce. All these factors contribute to making The Joinery a place that attracts and retains dedicated employees who help the venue shine as a gathering spot for patrons.
How does The Joinery combine quality with a unique social environment?
At its core, The Joinery delivers not only on culinary quality but also on the social experience by skillfully combining a diverse vendor approach with an inviting physical space. Every dish offered by the vendors comes with a focus on freshness and flavor, creating a dining experience that consistently satisfies. The social environment complements this with a modern design that encourages interaction without sacrificing comfort or intimacy. Guests can enjoy the lively buzz of activity alongside serene lake views, balancing energy with relaxation. This balance makes The Joinery stand out as a place where visitors linger longer, connect more deeply, and appreciate both the food and the company. The venue’s clean, attractive condition and its reputation for friendly service further enhance this experience, making every visit feel special. This thoughtful combination is why it appeals to such a broad range of visitors—from families seeking a hassle-free dinner out to groups of friends looking for a hip, convenient spot to hang out.
In summary, The Joinery is a distinguished venue that offers everything needed for a perfect meetup: diverse dining options, a beautiful lakeside location, a comfortable and trendy setting, practical amenities for groups, and strong community and employee values. It’s a place where friends and family can come together to enjoy great food, great views, and great company with ease and style. Whether for casual catch-ups or special celebrations, The Joinery makes any group gathering an event to remember.