When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Map Room
Why The Map Room is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Map Room is a standout dining destination located in Downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, known for its cozy and eclectic atmosphere. This local favorite offers a unique menu featuring internationally-inspired housemade burgers, crispy fries, fresh salads, and sandwiches that cater to a variety of tastes. Beyond the thoughtfully crafted food, The Map Room also impresses with its artisan cocktails, mocktails, craft beers, and a curated selection of wines, making it a versatile spot for meeting friends. Open every day of the week, including now Sundays, with convenient takeout options and attentive service, it marries great food with a welcoming ambiance perfect for casual get-togethers or a relaxed night out. Its location at 416 3rd Street SE in the heart of downtown adds to its accessibility and appeal, drawing in locals and visitors alike who seek good food and quality drinks in a warm setting.
Here's what people think of The Map Room
As of recent, The Map Room holds a 4.9-star rating based on 17 reviews.
User reviews highlight The Map Room’s exceptional quality and atmosphere, reflected in its impressive 4.9-star rating from 17 reviews. Positive feedback often emphasizes the delicious internationally-inspired dishes, notably the housemade burgers and fresh salads, as well as the thoughtfully crafted cocktails and diverse beverage selection. Customers also appreciate the cozy and eclectic ambiance which fosters a welcoming place to socialize. The friendly and accommodating service, along with the convenient takeout options, further contribute to a positive dining experience. On the other hand, some reviewers note the limitations due to the small kitchen, which can occasionally make takeout orders challenging during busy periods, and suggest managing expectations at peak times. Despite this, overall impressions remain highly favorable, praising the combination of quality food, craft beverages, and a charming setting. In conclusion, customer sentiment towards The Map Room is overwhelmingly positive, with the minor noted drawbacks not detracting significantly from its appeal as a preferred local eatery and social hub.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Danielle Slay
Josh is so good. I mean, he is just a kind person to start with. But he is so encouraging and efficient. Recording music is a vulnerable process and it's important to have someone there to support you, and he is definitely that. Really stoked to have found him! The space also is perfect for what I needed. Intimate and chill. 10/10 recommend!
Kristin McGuire
I needed a studio last minute while in Portland. Josh was super communicative and friendly! The studio is beautiful and super soundproof. The equipment is top-notch and I really enjoyed my experience there. Thanks Josh!
Johnny Boyd
I'm a musician/producer in Portland and was referred to Josh and The Map Room by another trusted musician friend. Josh was gracious and friendly, proficient in protools and SUPER FAST. He was conscientious and patient working on an editing project that I just dropped in his lap. Unflappable. Since that time, I have been back again and again. The rates are very reasonable and I've had to twist Josh's arm to let me pay him more than he's invoiced. Bottom line, studio time doesn't get more productive and enjoyable than this. If you are looking for an extremely accomplished engineer/studio to record, mix or polish your next special project, you can't go wrong with The Map Room. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Alex Krebs
This is our go-to for recording 4 full albums now. The gear is top notch and Josh is friendly, efficient, and super good at what he does. Would highly recommend it to anyone looking to record.
Holland
Amazing studio with beautiful gear and incredible engineers. Would recommend to anybody needing to record anything they are thinking of.
How to reach The Map Room
None
Website: None
Why The Map Room may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Map Room with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at The Map Room offers an exceptional experience that combines a warm, welcoming atmosphere with outstanding craft beers, delicious food, and a comfortable space perfect for socializing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a casual meetup, or simply craving a dependable place where everyone feels at home, The Map Room has the right vibe to bring people together. Its strong rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 17 reviews is a testament to the consistently excellent experiences guests enjoy here. The blend of great drinks and tasty, internationally-inspired burgers and fries ensures there’s something to satisfy every palate. What truly sets The Map Room apart is its balance of a cozy neighborhood bar ambiance with an impressive selection of craft and imported beers, making it a destination for beer enthusiasts as well as casual drinkers. Altogether, its inviting environment, attentive service, and variety of offerings create an ideal backdrop for an unforgettable group hangout where memories are meant to be shared and good times flow as easily as the drinks.
What activities are available at The Map Room that make it ideal for a group meetup?
The Map Room offers a dynamic set of activities and amenities that cater well to groups looking to enjoy quality time together. Primarily, it is known for its extensive beer selection, featuring many craft brews and hard-to-find imported Belgian beers on tap — a delight for beer lovers wanting to explore diverse flavors. This variety encourages group tastings and beer flights, sparking conversation and friendly debates over the best brews. Although it does not serve full dinners, the restaurant provides tasty packaged snacks and an internationally-inspired menu featuring burgers, fries, and unique fry basket toppings such as the popular Cusco Fries, which come with beef gravy and pesto elements that elevate the snacking experience. The setting is both cozy and eclectic, offering enough intimacy for small groups but also ample space for larger gatherings. Attentive and knowledgeable staff add to the experience by assisting with drink selections and creating a relaxed atmosphere. This mix of excellent beverages, savory bites, and a welcoming ambiance makes it a perfect spot for after-work socials, birthday festivities, or simply a night out with family and friends.
Why is The Map Room a perfect place for a group to meet and socialize?
The Map Room’s design and service philosophy prioritize comfort and connection, making it an outstanding place for group meetups. Its cozy and relaxed environment encourages lingering conversations without feeling rushed or overcrowded, ideal for groups who want to catch up over several drinks. The beer list is thoughtfully curated, featuring about 10-12 taps in a typical visit, each carefully chosen to cover a spectrum of styles and origins, ensuring every taste preference is accommodated. For groups that value craft beer, this is a near-perfect playground to explore new favorites together in a convivial setting. The food menu is intentionally crafted to complement the preeminent beer selection rather than overwhelm it, offering high-quality, delicious options such as artisan burgers with vegetarian and vegan choices and inventive fries that pair wonderfully with the beverages. The staff’s expertise and friendliness contribute heavily to a smooth group experience, providing personalized recommendations and timely service. The Map Room’s dedication to maintaining a neighborhood bar feel without sacrificing quality or ambiance is what genuinely makes it stand out as an ideal rendezvous spot for friends and families.
What unique features make The Map Room stand out among other bars?
One of the most distinctive features of The Map Room is its dedication to curating an extraordinary beer list with a focus on rare imports and craft brews that are not commonly found in other local bars. This approach caters to beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike, providing a unique tasting journey with each visit. The eclectic selection goes far beyond the ordinary taps, featuring collaborations such as the SingleSpeed/Pulpit Coconut Migration and local favorites like Alpine and Lion Bridge, which offer exciting seasonal and regional diversity. Another special aspect is the food pairing approach—rather than typical bar fare, The Map Room serves imaginative fries baskets and internationally-inspired burgers made with care and originality. This fusion of creative food and impeccable drink options cultivates a memorable experience for groups who desire both quality and novelty. Furthermore, The Map Room’s atmosphere, described as cozy and comfortable with a neighborhood bar ethos, creates a welcoming space where guests feel encouraged to relax and engage in meaningful connection. These combined features set The Map Room apart, making it much more than just a bar, but rather a beloved community hub for quality time.
How does the ambiance and staff contribute to the experience of visiting The Map Room?
The ambiance of The Map Room is central to why guests return time and again. The bar successfully balances a laid-back, cozy feel with attention to detail in décor and lighting that invites warmth and intimacy. This subtle yet thoughtful environment encourages groups to settle in and enjoy extended conversations without distraction. Customers often praise the staff for their friendliness, knowledge, and efficient service, which enhances the overall experience by making patrons feel valued and well-cared for. The bartenders are skilled in recommending beers based on preferences, creating a tailored drink experience that complements the social aspect of group meetings. The environment fosters a strong sense of neighborhood camaraderie, where visitors are welcomed like regulars whether local or visiting from out of town. Despite its vibrant beer selection and impressive menu, The Map Room maintains its character as a laid-back, unpretentious venue that invites everyone to relax. The combination of inviting ambiance and dedicated staff contributes to making any visit to The Map Room an enjoyable and memorable occasion for groups looking to unwind and celebrate connection.
What should one expect in terms of food offerings at The Map Room?
Though primarily celebrated for its extensive and diverse beer selection, The Map Room also offers a food menu designed to satisfy and complement its drinks menu perfectly. The culinary focus is on internationally-inspired burgers and artisan fries that appeal to a broad audience, including those seeking vegan and vegetarian options. Popular items include unique fry baskets like Cusco Fries, which feature a delicious mix of beef gravy, onions, tomatoes, and pesto-style cilantro—a flavorful fusion that stands out as a must-try. The burgers are crafted with care, often featuring locally sourced ingredients and inventive toppings that enhance the overall dining experience. The affordability of the menu combined with the quality of the dishes makes it a reassuring choice for groups who want good food without the fuss. Additionally, packaged snacks are available to accompany the beverage selection, ensuring that hunger pangs are satisfied even without a full meal. This synergy between food and drinks encourages sharing and sampling among groups, enhancing the communal spirit that The Map Room fosters.
Why is The Map Room a recommended choice for hosting different types of group events?
The Map Room is versatile enough to accommodate various group occasions ranging from casual hangouts and work celebrations to more festive family gatherings. Its welcoming atmosphere and spacious seating arrangements provide the flexibility needed to comfortably host different numbers of guests. The focus on high-quality drinks and thoughtfully prepared food means guests leave satisfied regardless of the event’s nature. The friendly and attentive staff can often assist in customizing the experience, from recommending beverage pairings to ensuring smooth service during busy times. The Map Room’s location, often described as a neighborhood gem, makes it easily accessible and a reliable choice for recurring meetups or special events alike. Its reputation as a place with a comfortable yet lively vibe appeals to groups who want an environment that fosters connection without the distractions of louder, more commercial bars. This makes The Map Room an excellent go-to destination when planning a gathering centered on good times, excellent taste, and joyful camaraderie.
In summary, The Map Room excels as an exceptional venue for friends, family, or colleagues to rally together. Its stellar reputation, superb beer selection, creative food options, and welcoming atmosphere position it as one of the best places to host unforgettable meetups. By combining an impressive draft list, delectable international-inspired dishes, comfortable ambiance, and attentive staff, The Map Room crafts an experience that is as enjoyable as it is satisfying. Whether indulging in a complex craft beer conversation or sharing a basket of uniquely topped fries, groups leave with lasting memories and a strong desire to return.