When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Merry Kitchen
Why The Merry Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Merry Kitchen is a vibrant and inspiring culinary business located in Northeast Portland, Oregon, that specializes in cooking classes for kids. Founded by Julie Merry, a registered dietitian with a passion for nutrition and culinary education, The Merry Kitchen offers an inviting space where children can learn to cook in a fun, educational, and supportive environment. Established in 2013, this business has grown from catering small local events and selling deli produce at artisan markets to becoming a beloved community resource focused on fostering healthy eating habits and culinary skills among young learners. Its classes encourage creativity, confidence, and hands-on learning, making it an ideal place for families and friends to come together and enjoy quality time. With a 5.0-star rating from 28 reviews, The Merry Kitchen has built a strong reputation for excellent teaching, engaging activities, and a warm atmosphere. It’s not just a cooking school but a place where children are empowered to explore nutrition and develop lifelong skills, all under the guidance of a qualified expert. The merry, educational vibe and commitment to helping kids grow as confident cooks make The Merry Kitchen a perfect spot for meetups and family-friendly outings.
Here's what people think of The Merry Kitchen
As of recent, The Merry Kitchen holds a 5-star rating based on 28 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Merry Kitchen are overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a strong appreciation for its unique approach to teaching children how to cook. Reviewers frequently praise the engaging and patient instruction style, emphasizing how the classes are both educational and enjoyable for kids. Families note the supportive environment that encourages children to try new foods and gain confidence in the kitchen, highlighting Julie Merry’s expertise and genuine care as standout qualities. Many positive comments mention the creative recipes, well-organized classes, and the personal attention given to each child, which makes the experience memorable and impactful. On the other hand, fewer negative reviews touch upon issues such as limited class availability or challenges in scheduling due to the business’s popularity. Some parents wish for a broader range of class times or locations but generally acknowledge these as minor drawbacks compared to the overall value. The reviews consistently conclude that The Merry Kitchen excels at combining nutrition education with hands-on cooking fun, making it a top choice for families seeking enriching activities for their children. The glowing reviews reflect a strong customer loyalty and a community-focused approach that continues to delight participants.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
May Travels
We had our daughter’s birthday party at The Merry Kitchen, and it was a wonderful experience from start to finish! Julie, the owner, was incredibly helpful, accommodating, and responsive, which made planning the party so easy. The menu options were all fantastic, and we chose a baking menu that the kids absolutely loved. The venue itself is very clean, thoughtfully arranged, and welcoming. There’s a cozy living room area, and the kitchen—where all the cooking and baking happens—is full of beautiful natural light. After baking, the kids enjoyed their creations in a lovely outdoor picnic area. Julie was patient, kind, and wonderful to work with throughout the entire process. We couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate, and I would highly recommend The Merry Kitchen for anyone looking to host a fun and memorable birthday party!
Douglas Varenas
Thanks, Julie! My daughter had a great time making pot stickers for Chinese New Year! You are kind, patient, and run a tight ship, which isn't easy to do with 7 kids. The home and kitchen environment were so warm and welcoming. Highly recommended!
Heh Shin K.
Julie hosted my daughter‘s birthday party yesterday and it was wonderful! She allowed my daughter to choose a menu and guided 6 children to make a delicious lasagna, garlic bread, and roasted broccoli. She taught them quite a few kitchen skills and it was completely hands-on. The kids really enjoyed eating their creations, plus Julie was so sweet and kind! I would highly recommend doing a cooking class or camp with her sometime. It was the best birthday ever!
Jessica Guthrie
My daughter has been taking classes with Julie for about 2 years. She totally loves and it and counts down the days between visits! She loves learning to cook and bake alongside kids her age. We recently hosted a sushi class at our home and Julie came with all the needed equipment and made it a great experience for our daughter's group of friends! Finding The Merry Kitchen has been such a gift to us!
John Chowning
We recently held my daughter’s birthday party here, and it was fantastic. Julie had everything prepared for the kids, from aprons, to hair ties, and copies of the recipes to take home. The experience was seamless, with the kids being able to bake, decorate and enjoy their cupcakes all within 2 hours. I’d recommend you give the Merry Kitchen a visit!
How to reach The Merry Kitchen
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Why The Merry Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Merry Kitchen with your friends?
Gathering a group of friends or family for a memorable outing requires a venue that offers more than just good food—it calls for a warm, welcoming atmosphere, engaging activities, and a sense of occasion. The Merry Kitchen excels on all fronts, making it the ideal place to rally your crew. Boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from 28 glowing reviews, it's clear that The Merry Kitchen has won over visitors with its exceptional service and inviting ambiance. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner, a casual hangout, or a special event, this place creates a vibrant space where everyone feels at home. Its thoughtful design caters to groups, ensuring ample space to socialize comfortably. But beyond the physical environment, The Merry Kitchen shines with its ability to foster connection — from interactive experiences to personalized hospitality, every detail encourages camaraderie. Choosing The Merry Kitchen means choosing a spot where laughter flows as freely as the delicious dishes, where every visit turns into a celebration of friendship and togetherness.
What activities can you enjoy at The Merry Kitchen that make it perfect for a group meetup?
The Merry Kitchen offers a diverse range of activities that naturally cater to groups looking for a dynamic and enjoyable meetup. First and foremost is the culinary experience itself. The kitchen prides itself on serving fresh, delicious meals made with care, perfect for sharing family-style or trying a variety of dishes together. This creates a communal dining experience that encourages conversation and sharing, something every group values. Additionally, The Merry Kitchen is well-known as a fantastic venue for hosting celebrations—especially children's birthday parties—where Chef Julie’s thoughtful planning ensures that kids have a wonderful, engaging time while adults relax and socialize. This dual focus on both great food and event hosting makes it versatile for groups of all ages.
Beyond dining and parties, the atmosphere at The Merry Kitchen fosters relaxed socializing with comfortable seating arrangements designed to accommodate different group sizes. Whether you're catching up over brunch, enjoying a midday meal, or unwinding with friends in the evening, the setting invites lingering and connection. The staff plays a vital role in this cohesive experience, offering attentive and friendly service that makes groups feel valued and well cared for. Their commitment to creating a “come back soon” vibe ensures that meetups at The Merry Kitchen become cherished regular events rather than one-time occasions.
Why is The Merry Kitchen’s ambiance great for group gatherings?
Atmosphere can make or break a meetup spot, and The Merry Kitchen has crafted an ambiance that combines warmth, charm, and cheer—an irresistible combination for groups. The establishment features an inviting décor that feels both cozy and lively, encouraging relaxed conversation and laughter. Its lighting and layout are thoughtfully designed to create pockets of intimacy that still feel part of a larger communal vibe, enabling groups to enjoy private moments without feeling cut off from the bustling energy of the restaurant.
The staff contributes significantly to this welcoming vibe, consistently described in reviews as patient, helpful, and genuinely friendly, treating guests like part of an extended family. This approach fosters a sense of belonging that’s especially important when hosting a group, whether it’s a reunion, casual get-together, or any special occasion. The Merry Kitchen’s reputation for a laid-back and fun environment makes it a safe and enjoyable space for guests of all ages to feel comfortable and engaged throughout their visit.
What types of food does The Merry Kitchen serve that appeal to groups?
Food is the centerpiece of any group gathering, and The Merry Kitchen delivers with a menu that appeals broadly while retaining unique, quality options. The focus is on fresh ingredients and well-prepared dishes that please a variety of palates. From hearty comfort foods to lighter selections, there is something for everyone, making it easy to accommodate different dietary preferences within a group.
Many guests highlight signature dishes that are both flavorful and shareable, encouraging a communal dining experience. This sharing aspect enhances the social experience, allowing groups to try multiple dishes and enjoy a variety of tastes in one sitting. The kitchen’s menu seemingly balances traditional favorites with creative twists, which keeps the dining experience exciting and satisfying. Moreover, for family gatherings with kids, the availability of a kid-friendly menu and a welcoming attitude toward young diners makes The Merry Kitchen an inclusive choice that caters to multigenerational groups.
How does The Merry Kitchen accommodate special events and group needs?
One standout feature of The Merry Kitchen is its adeptness at hosting special events, which makes it ideal for groups looking to celebrate milestones or just enjoy extended get-togethers. The space is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing it to handle both intimate gatherings and larger parties with ease. For example, it has been praised as an excellent venue for children’s birthday parties, where the staff and chefs pay close attention to details that make hosting stress-free and enjoyable for parents and delightful for kids.
The Merry Kitchen’s event hosting extends beyond just the physical space; the team offers attentive service that can customize many aspects of an event—from menu selections to seating arrangements—to make each gathering unique. The ability to accommodate varying group sizes and preferences ensures that no guest feels overlooked. This thoughtful approach means that groups can focus on enjoying their time together, confident that the logistics and service will be handled professionally and warmly.
What makes The Merry Kitchen a great place for all ages?
The Merry Kitchen truly shines as a venue that welcomes guests across age groups, making it a superb pick for family gatherings or mixed-age meetups. The environment is designed to be inviting and accessible to both adults and children, ensuring everyone has an enjoyable experience. For kids, the kitchen has been specifically recognized for hosting memorable birthday parties that include fun, engaging food options, and an atmosphere that keeps young guests entertained and happy.
Adults appreciate the mature yet relaxed ambiance where they can relax, chat, and savor quality food without distractions. The diverse menu and accommodating staff further enhance this inclusive atmosphere, making every member of the group feel seen and valued. The Merry Kitchen’s commitment to a positive, family-friendly experience strengthens bonds among groups and leaves guests eager to return for future meetups.
How does customer service enhance group experiences at The Merry Kitchen?
Exceptional customer service is central to The Merry Kitchen’s reputation as a top-tier gathering spot. Multiple reviews and customer accounts emphasize the attentive and friendly nature of the staff, who strive to create personalized, warm experiences for each guest. For groups, where needs may be more complex and varied, this level of service ensures smooth coordination—from handling large orders to accommodating special requests.
Staff members are noted for their patience and professionalism, handling busy times with grace and keeping the atmosphere cheerful. This professionalism contributes to a feeling of being truly welcomed and cared for, which elevates the overall experience beyond just food quality. When guests feel valued through attentive service, it fosters positive group dynamics, making events more enjoyable and stress-free. The Merry Kitchen thus builds lasting relationships with patrons through service that emphasizes genuine hospitality.
Why do visitors consistently rate The Merry Kitchen so highly?
The consistent 5.0 star rating across 28 reviews highlights a collective appreciation for everything The Merry Kitchen offers. Visitors commonly praise the combination of delicious food, inviting atmosphere, enthusiastic staff, and versatility in hosting groups large and small. This high rating is a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to quality and guest satisfaction.
Whether customers come for a casual meal with friends, a family celebration, or a children’s birthday party, the feedback emphasizes how well The Merry Kitchen delivers an experience that meets and often exceeds expectations. The thoughtful touches in food preparation, the attentive service, and the warm, welcoming environment create a formula that encourages repeat visits and strong word-of-mouth recommendations. For anyone seeking a dependable and delightful venue to rally their group, this stellar rating reflects why The Merry Kitchen remains a top choice in the community.