When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
The Orient
Why The Orient is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Orient in Atlanta stands out as a vibrant and inviting restaurant that offers a memorable place to meet up with friends. It is particularly praised for its beautifully modern décor, including a captivating koi pond that adds to the tranquil yet lively atmosphere. Customers frequently cite the friendly and welcoming staff who contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The diverse menu presents a range of tasty dishes, especially favorites like Tangerine Chicken, Singapore Noodle, Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp, and a variety of sushi rolls, which encourages sharing among friends due to the generous portions. The food presentation is consistently rated highly, adding a touch of elegance to the dining experience. The bar is a notable social hub, often highlighted for its engaging bartenders and the appealing drink options such as Lychee Martinis and Pink Rose cocktails. The Orient’s environment balances a modern, upbeat vibe with comfortable relaxation, making it ideal for long visits, casual hangouts, or celebrations. Additionally, the restaurant’s fresh preparation of food and high quality contribute to its reputation as a great place for social gatherings and good conversations over excellent cuisine.
Here's what people think of The Orient
As of recent, The Orient holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1317 reviews.
User reviews of The Orient reveal a generally positive dining experience, particularly emphasizing the restaurant’s friendly service, appealing atmosphere, and well-prepared food. Many patrons appreciate the attentive bartenders and enthusiastic waitstaff, who help create a lively and comfortable environment. The food is often described as flavorful and fresh, with several reviewers mentioning dishes that stand out and the generous portion sizes that are perfect for sharing. The décor and overall ambiance receive praise for being modern and inviting, which adds to the appeal of spending extended time at the venue. However, employee reviews present a contrasting view that highlights significant issues related to management and working conditions. Several staff members comment on high turnover rates, perceived poor management practices, and dissatisfaction with pay and tip policies, which they describe as unfair. There are reports of rude behavior from owners and managers, contributing to a challenging work environment. Despite these internal difficulties, the customer-facing aspects of The Orient tend to maintain a strong, positive reputation. In summary, while The Orient excels as a social and dining destination for guests, it appears to struggle with employee satisfaction and management, which may be an important consideration for those evaluating the restaurant holistically.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Steve Takata
The food here is pretty good, but the service is spotty. Even though almost the whole restaurant was empty when I got here, because I got here late, I had to wait about 10 minutes before they put me at a table, which is a little nuts. Then once I sat down, it took almost 20 minutes before anybody came over to bring me water even. Once I ordered it was reasonably quick, but that’s probably because they wanted to make sure I got out before they closed. The food was good, I ordered egg foo yong with fried rice and both were good, especially the egg foo young. They were tons of frogs, of at least four different species, calling from a little river behind the restaurant, so it was kind of cool to just hang out for a minute and listen to them. I’m thinking maybe the service would’ve been better earlier. But I still don’t understand why they had me wait for 10 minutes with dozens of tables that were empty and clean. That made absolutely no sense at all.
Alejandra Camacho
We started with the crazy crab roll— it was light but flavorful and was prepared quickly and tasted very fresh. Would recommend. As part of our main meal, we ordered tangerine chicken, Szechuan beef, and the vegetable lo main. Everything came out super quickly and was nice and hot by the time we received it. The tangerine chicken was deliciously seasoned, well cooked, and had a bright and citrusy combination of flavors. It was the best dish we had here by far. The lo main was very, very good. It wasn’t greasy and the veggies were cooked well. It was the perfect accompaniment to the rest of our meal. The Szechuan beef was good, but the beef didn’t absorb the sauce completely, so I didn’t enjoy it until I soaked it with the sauce at the bottom. It was overall okay, but I would have rather had more tangerine chicken. Overall, I’d definitely return again. I’m excited to try the many other dishes they have to offer.
Barbara Stryker
We were 7 adults and one infant. We were seated in a wonderful alcove which was perfect for us to visit and have an infant. The food was great. We had Mongolian beef, beef with vegetables, sesame chicken, California roll, seafood platter, soup, edamame, wings and spring rolls. Our server was delightful.
Marshall Helms
This was my first time at The Orient. There was adequate parking. We made a reservation 25 minutes ahead of time and were seated immediately. The service was incredible and fast. They are really on point with there process here. The experience was fun, entertaining, and full of energy. I got steak and chicken that came with rice and veggies. I would definitely come back.
Ne'kea
🤩 So glad we made the U-turn on paces ferry & ended up here!! Customer service was on point and the atmosphere was inviting. They have specials posted on a chalk board as you enter. There was no wait and we sat at a regular table opposed to hibachi. The menu is pretty extensive. I ordered the egg drop soup & Szcheun lo mein and my bf had the house lo mein and braised wings. Everything was sooo tasty & served hot. Our waiter was very attentive and friendly. We found our new go to spot when we’re being indecisive.
How to reach The Orient
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Why The Orient may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Orient with your friends? If you are looking for an inviting spot that combines authentic, flavorful cuisine with a friendly atmosphere, The Orient is a compelling choice. Rated 4.4 stars by over 1300 reviewers, this restaurant has earned a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike for its consistent quality and service. Meeting up here means enjoying not only fresh, well-prepared dishes packed with vibrant flavors but also a comfortable, neat environment that welcomes groups. The staff is known for being helpful and patient, ensuring your party feels well taken care of whether it’s a casual get-together or a small celebration. Moreover, the popularity of this place reflects in high demand, showing that it is trusted by many as a go-to for social dining experiences. The Orient manages to strike the right balance between being lively enough for a group meetup and cozy enough to feel like a home away from home. Whether you want to bond over a delicious meal or simply catch up with friends, this restaurant provides a tasteful and enjoyable backdrop for your gathering.
What activities and experiences does The Orient offer that make it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, dining at The Orient means indulging in a menu filled with a variety of Asian dishes known for their freshness and authenticity. People rave about signature items like the hot and sour soup, expertly cooked fried rice, and tender beef with green onions—a flavorful combination that appeals to diverse palates. Sharing food in a group setting here is effortless because the dishes are designed to be enjoyed communally, sparking conversation and camaraderie. Beyond the food, the setting itself is thoughtfully maintained; guests frequently compliment the cleanliness and neatness of the interiors, creating a pleasant environment to linger in with friends or family. The staff's attentiveness adds to the relaxing experience, allowing your group to focus on socializing without worrying about logistics. For those who prefer convenience, The Orient also supports takeout options, so you can still rally your friends for a casual meetup even if you want to enjoy your meal elsewhere. All these aspects ensure that every visit feels smooth, enjoyable, and suited to group dynamics, making it an ideal venue for social gatherings.
Why is The Orient a convenient and accommodating meeting place for groups? The restaurant’s ability to handle busy times gracefully is a critical factor. Despite being popular, the staff at The Orient manages customer flow effectively and maintains excellent service standards, ensuring your group doesn’t feel rushed or overlooked. This is essential when you want to spend quality time with friends without constant interruptions or long wait times. Additionally, the welcoming nature of the staff means your group’s special requests or dietary preferences can be accommodated with care, making everyone feel included. The combination of a relaxed ambiance and dependable service means that whether your meetup is spontaneous or planned in advance, The Orient rises to the occasion. The no-dine-in option with prompt takeout service during certain periods adds to the restaurant’s flexibility, adapting to your group’s needs. Finally, the location’s accessibility and ample seating options make it straightforward for friends or family to arrive and settle in without hassle.
What dining atmosphere does The Orient provide that enhances the group experience? The overall vibe at The Orient is friendly and laid-back, which is exactly what groups need to unwind and connect. Reviewers often mention the positive energy of the staff and the tidy environment as highlights, ensuring the restaurant feels inviting rather than overwhelming. It’s a place where the focus remains on good food and comfortable interaction rather than formalities or noise. This balance suits all kinds of group events, from casual lunches and dinners to small celebrations. The staff's patient and helpful attitude further boosts the atmosphere, allowing guests to ask questions about the menu or customize their orders easily. The aesthetic of the restaurant is neat and simple yet warm, supporting a feeling of togetherness that helps friends and family enjoy each other’s company. Overall, The Orient’s atmosphere encourages lingering, sharing stories, and experiencing the meal as a collective event.
How does The Orient’s reputation support its appeal for hosting meetups? The strong rating of 4.4 based on over 1300 reviews is a testament to the reliability and quality that The Orient provides. Customers consistently praise the flavorful food and friendly service, both essential factors for choosing a place to meet with friends or family. Positive word of mouth and repeat visits underline that The Orient is a trusted option for enjoyable dining experiences. While some employee reviews hint at internal operational challenges, these do not seem to affect the customer experience significantly, as reflected in the consistent high ratings from guests. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and balanced flavors guarantees that groups will leave satisfied and likely eager to return. This level of trust makes The Orient a reassuring choice for anyone seeking a dependable venue to bring people together around a shared love of good food.
What makes The Orient’s menu exciting and suitable for group dining? The food offerings feature a range of Asian-inspired dishes that cater to many tastes, including vegetarian options and hearty meat entrees. Dishes such as hot and sour soup and expertly crafted fried rice have been singled out for their authenticity and flavor profiles. The menu’s variety invites sharing, which is ideal for groups that want to try multiple items and create a dynamic tasting experience. This communal dining style encourages interaction, making every meal a social occasion rather than just nourishment. The freshness and balance in the dishes ensure that everyone finds something enjoyable, whether they favor spicy, savory, or milder flavors. The options at The Orient make it easy to accommodate different preferences within your group, increasing the appeal of hosting your meetups here.
What logistical advantages does The Orient offer for friendly gatherings? The restaurant’s location in a well-connected area ensures easy access for friends and family coming from different parts of town. Ample and comfortable seating makes it manageable for groups to sit together without feeling cramped. The option to place takeout orders also means that you can enjoy the food at a location of your choice if you prefer a more private setting. The staff’s reputation for responsiveness and a neat dining environment ensures that logistics, from seating arrangements to meal timing, run smoothly. Given its popularity, The Orient often handles busy times well, which means your group can expect reliable service and a reasonably paced dining experience even when the restaurant is bustling.
How does The Orient compare to other group dining venues? Compared to typical fast-food or generic dining places, The Orient offers a superior combination of fresh, flavorful food alongside attentive service and a clean, welcoming environment. While there are many Asian eateries, few match the consistent positive reviews and the well-rounded dining experience found here. The restaurant strikes a balance between quality and approachability, making it suitable for casual friends’ meetups as well as more purposeful gatherings like family reunions or celebrations. Its flexibility in accommodating both dine-in and takeout options sets it apart, offering additional convenience. This combination of factors makes The Orient a smart alternative to standard group dining venues that might sacrifice quality or atmosphere for speed or pricing.
What overall value does The Orient provide for group meetups? The Orient excels in delivering an experience that balances taste, service, convenience, and ambiance—all crucial elements when hosting gatherings. Its reputation for fresh, flavorful dishes serves as a solid foundation for memorable meals shared with friends or family. When combined with attentive and friendly service, as well as a clean, comfortable environment, the restaurant crafts the ideal backdrop for socializing without distraction. Economically, the value customers receive given the quality and quantity of food further enhances its appeal for groups on budgets. Taking all these into account, The Orient stands out as a smart choice, making every meetup feel special, enjoyable, and hassle-free.
In summary, The Orient provides a compelling destination for anyone looking to gather with friends or family thanks to its authentic, flavorful menu, accommodating service, and inviting atmosphere. The combination of taste, convenience, and positive guest experiences makes it a go-to place that consistently pleases groups, offering an enriching social dining experience that strengthens bonds and creates great memories. Whether your group is small or moderately sized, The Orient has the right ingredients to make your meetup both delicious and delightful.