When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
The Ranch
Why The Ranch is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Ranch at Las Colinas offers an inviting Texan-chic ambiance that makes it a great place to meet up with friends, have business meals, or enjoy romantic dinners. Located in Irving, Texas, it features a warm and welcoming atmosphere that blends rustic charm with sophisticated service. The restaurant is known for its excellent service, making guests feel valued and comfortable during every visit. Highlights include tender, flavorful ribs and a diverse menu that provides good value outside of the steak options, which some find a bit pricey. Its versatile setting is perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to special date nights, emphasizing authentic Texas flavors and hospitality. Its reputation as a must-visit dining destination in the area is supported by a loyal clientele who appreciate both the food quality and attentive service. The Ranch's combination of ambiance, culinary highlights, and consistent excellence in service creates an inviting environment ideal for socializing and celebrating with others.
Here's what people think of The Ranch
As of recent, The Ranch holds a 3.6-star rating based on 367 reviews.
The Ranch at Las Colinas holds a moderate overall rating of 3.6 from 367 reviews, reflecting a mix of positive and negative guest experiences. Reviewers commonly praise the restaurant for its excellent service, warm ambiance, and quality of food, especially highlighting the ribs as tender and delicious. Many find it suitable for business meals, social dinners, and date nights due to its versatile Texan-chic atmosphere which adds to the dining experience. Positive remarks emphasize the restaurant’s friendly staff, inviting environment, and presentation of authentic Texas cuisine, which make visits memorable and pleasant. On the downside, some patrons note that the steaks seem overpriced for their quality, which affects their dining value perception. A few negative reviews mention concerns such as inconsistent food quality or pricing, which prevent the restaurant from achieving higher overall acclaim. In conclusion, while The Ranch is widely regarded as a warm and appealing place with great service and flavorful dishes, some variability in pricing and steak quality tempers unanimous praise. Its standing as a beloved Texan dining spot remains strong, with mostly favorable customer experiences bolstering its reputation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jessica Bachansingh
Hello, The bouncer at the ranch was awful. He was with his friend and did not check our ID. So we walked in, and he yelled for us to check our ID when we were halfway up the stairs. We obliged, but he started yelling at us for trying to bypass. I called him out for not being clearly the bouncer and he started saying “I’m allowed to yell at you, get out of this bar” and kicked us out. What a shameful way to lose 4 customers for the bouncer not doing his job and then trying to exert a power trip
CLAUDIA VARELA
Love this place. Really chill to go and enjoy a good drink. Bartenders are down to earth, and don’t even mention Laura. She is awesome. And the guy in the front. Oh my God. Super nice. 10 out of 10.Si
Samantha Moody
Great music, but if you want to get property stolen, come here! My friend had both her wallet and phone stolen out of her purse and there were about a dozen other people that had it happen on the SAME NIGHT. Majority of the staff was unhelpful and unwilling to resolve the issue, and based on looking at other reviews after the fact, this is clearly a pattern. Photo attached is the two suspects fleeing with stolen property (that the bouncers refused to stop). AVOID AT ALL COSTS!
James Lucenti
Great night life. Love the vibe. People were very friendly. Great music. Fast service.
amanda goutreaux
Great place to book for events, grateful for Jose and his team. From the DJ to the bartenders and security, they were all very accommodating and went the extra mile to help make the night a success.
Jessica Bachansingh
Hello, The bouncer at the ranch was awful. He was with his friend and did not check our ID. So we walked in, and he yelled for us to check our ID when we were halfway up the stairs. We obliged, but he started yelling at us for trying to bypass. I called him out for not being clearly the bouncer and he started saying “I’m allowed to yell at you, get out of this bar” and kicked us out. What a shameful way to lose 4 customers for the bouncer not doing his job and then trying to exert a power trip
CLAUDIA VARELA
Love this place. Really chill to go and enjoy a good drink. Bartenders are down to earth, and don’t even mention Laura. She is awesome. And the guy in the front. Oh my God. Super nice. 10 out of 10.Si
Samantha Moody
Great music, but if you want to get property stolen, come here! My friend had both her wallet and phone stolen out of her purse and there were about a dozen other people that had it happen on the SAME NIGHT. Majority of the staff was unhelpful and unwilling to resolve the issue, and based on looking at other reviews after the fact, this is clearly a pattern. Photo attached is the two suspects fleeing with stolen property (that the bouncers refused to stop). AVOID AT ALL COSTS!
James Lucenti
Great night life. Love the vibe. People were very friendly. Great music. Fast service.
amanda goutreaux
Great place to book for events, grateful for Jose and his team. From the DJ to the bartenders and security, they were all very accommodating and went the extra mile to help make the night a success.
How to reach The Ranch
None
Website: None
Why The Ranch may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When planning a memorable outing with friends or family, The Ranch stands out as a compelling destination that offers more than just food—it provides an atmosphere charged with rustic charm and a welcoming vibe that invites relaxation and connection. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy quality time together, this spot’s heartiness and warmth make it the perfect rally point. Guests frequently praise its exceptional service and the friendly staff, which ensures everyone feels valued and comfortable from the moment they walk in. Additionally, while the wait times can be a little long, it only adds to the anticipation and shows how popular and well-loved the venue is, meaning you’re in for a worthwhile experience. This is a place where laughter echoes around the table, portions are generous enough to satisfy big appetites, and the BBQ consistently earns high accolades, making it a perfect blend of great food and convivial atmosphere for any group meetup.
What activities can you enjoy at The Ranch, and why is it ideal for group meetups?
The Ranch offers a multifaceted experience that caters wonderfully to groups looking for both fun and relaxation. Its setting, reminiscent of a traditional ranch-style saloon, creates a cozy yet lively ambiance ideal for conversation and camaraderie. Beyond savoring hearty plates of expertly grilled BBQ and premium steaks—foods designed to be shared and enjoyed communally—there’s the option to unwind over expertly crafted cocktails and a robust drinks menu. This makes it easy to toast to friendships, milestones, or just an enjoyable evening together. Guests have noted the excellent dessert options, which are perfect for finishing off a meal on a sweet note and giving everyone something to talk about. The Ranch’s rustic décor and warm lighting encourage long stays, where groups can settle in and engage in extended conversations without feeling rushed. Moreover, the attentive and friendly service staff is known to create a welcoming environment that handles group needs seamlessly, whether ordering multiple rounds of dishes or accommodating any special requests. This combination of great food, inviting atmosphere, and accommodating service makes The Ranch a standout destination for groups who want a night out where everyone can feel at home.
How does the menu at The Ranch enhance the group dining experience?
The menu at The Ranch is a key reason why it’s so well-suited for meetups with friends and family. The offerings focus on hearty, flavorful dishes that are perfect for sharing and celebrating together. Its BBQ selections are the highlight, frequently described as "to die for," showcasing slow-cooked, tender meats that are both comforting and satisfying. This makes the meal an experience in itself, where each bite can be savored and passed around to sample. Steaks, known for their melt-in-your-mouth quality, elevate the dining experience to something special, ideal for marking important occasions or just indulging in a great meal. Additionally, side dishes like their much-recommended creamed corn provide an extra layer of flavor, and desserts ensure that the meal ends on a high note, leaving everyone pleased and content. Many visitors point out the generous portion sizes, which ensure no one leaves hungry—a crucial factor for group dining where appetites can vary. The menu’s balance between classic favorites and indulgent treats invites sharing, creating a communal experience that strengthens bonds over delicious food.
What makes the atmosphere at The Ranch comfortable and inviting for groups?
A key aspect of The Ranch that appeals to groups is its carefully cultivated atmosphere, which combines rustic charm with modern comfort. The décor features natural wood, warm hues, and authentic ranch-inspired touches that create an environment both elegant and unpretentious. This setting fosters a relaxed mood where guests can unwind and engage in lively conversation without distraction or discomfort. Many reviewers mention the friendly service as a major plus, highlighting how staff go the extra mile to make everyone feel welcome, which is crucial for group dynamics. The lighting is soft and warm, perfect for evening meetups that can stretch from dinner into late-night chats. Even when busy, the venue manages to maintain a sense of intimacy, making it feel like a personal gathering spot rather than a generic restaurant. This thoughtful blend of aesthetics and hospitality means groups of all sizes—from couples and small friend circles to larger family gatherings—can find a comfortable niche here to connect and create lasting memories.
How does The Ranch accommodate larger groups and special occasions?
The Ranch’s layout and service style are designed to supplement group experiences and special event needs. While relatively popular and sometimes busy, the venue handles group reservations and larger parties efficiently, ensuring that meetups go smoothly without long delays or seating issues. The spacious seating arrangements provide enough room for groups to sit together comfortably, enabling everyone to participate in conversations and the overall atmosphere. For special occasions, patrons note the staff’s attention to detail and willingness to accommodate unique requests, whether that involves customized menus, celebratory cakes, or special timing for courses. This flexibility makes The Ranch a favored choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or other milestones where the gathering’s flow and feel are equally important as the food quality. Though the prices lean towards the higher end compared to casual dining, many guests feel the experience justifies the investment for those once-in-a-while celebrations, ensuring a memorable, hassle-free event with excellent food and attentive service. This makes The Ranch not just a meal spot, but a venue where groups can truly relish togetherness and celebration.
What do reviews say about the overall experience at The Ranch?
The overall sentiment about The Ranch people express in reviews is largely positive, reflecting the establishment’s strong suit in hospitality and quality. Many guests emphasize the superb customer service, noting how staff are friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. The food consistently receives high marks, especially the BBQ and steaks, which are often described as the highlight of the meal. While some mention the price point being on the higher side, most agree that it is worth it for the quality and portions provided, especially for special occasions. A few reviews note the occasional wait time to be seated, which, while a downside, is seen as a testament to the restaurant's popularity rather than a major inconvenience. Families, friend groups, and couples alike enjoy the environment, making it suitable for a wide range of social occasions. The Ranch has built a reputation as a dependable, thoughtfully run venue where groups can expect a satisfying and enjoyable outing every time. This combination of consistent quality, excellent service, and inviting atmosphere makes it a reliable choice for anyone seeking an exceptional spot to gather with friends or family.