When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
The Ravens Club
Why The Ravens Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Ravens Club in downtown Ann Arbor offers a unique blend of nostalgic ambiance and modern culinary delights, making it an exceptional place to gather with friends. Founded by longtime locals Chris Pawlicki and Jeff Paquin, the venue artfully combines elements reminiscent of 1920s and 1930s upscale jazz clubs, speakeasies, and classic film noir, resulting in a lush, intimate, dark, and cozy atmosphere. Key design features include an impressive massive oak bar and oversized lamp posts, preserving beloved elements from the previous establishment, The Full Moon. The understated exterior, marked only by a simple raven drawing, further adds to the speakeasy allure. The Ravens Club excels not only in its décor but also through its gourmet offerings; the menu features creative small plates like grilled flatbread topped with fresh vegetables and mozzarella, along with classic soup variations such as a well-seasoned white onion soup. Their standout desserts, including rhubarb cobbler and rich chocolate decadence, receive high praise. This location is open seven days a week at 5 pm, providing a welcoming venue for groups seeking an upscale yet inviting environment accented by exceptional cocktails, particularly its renowned Old Fashioned, and an extensive whiskey selection. The combination of nostalgic charm, diverse menu, and quality service makes The Ravens Club a distinguished spot for gatherings in Ann Arbor.
Here's what people think of The Ravens Club
As of recent, The Ravens Club holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1105 reviews.
Reviews of The Ravens Club highlight a predominantly positive experience centered around its ambiance, food quality, and service. Many patrons appreciate the restaurant’s dedication to evoking a Prohibition-era vibe, praising the artful design and cozy atmosphere which create an ideal setting for socializing. Positive reviews consistently mention the quality and creativity of the food, with particular acclaim for small plates like grilled flatbread and the wonderfully light yet flavorful white onion soup. Desserts, especially the rhubarb cobbler and chocolate decadence, are frequently noted as delicious and memorable. Guests also commend the attentive and cheerful service staff, which enhances the overall dining experience. However, some reviews point to occasional inconsistencies in certain dishes and the elevated price point that might not appeal to all clientele. A few critiques mention that the restaurant aims to balance upscale dining with comfort food but sometimes narrowly misses perfect execution on select offerings. Despite minor drawbacks, the reviews coalesce around the conclusion that The Ravens Club successfully combines quality food, excellent service, and a distinctive atmosphere to provide an upscale yet approachable venue. This balance secures its reputation as a top dining destination in Ann Arbor and a great place to meet with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Evan Curtis
Make a point to stop here if you love cocktails! We were in town for a quick visit with family, stopped by for a quick drink, and were not disappointed. Our bartender took care of us that afternoon, and we were made to feel like we were family. Apparently, he was responsible for 8 of the seasonal cocktails, so he's got one hell of a palette, because they were all great! Get the truffle fries with everything on them (so good we got them twice!) 10/10 experience, we will be making a point to stop here again when we're in town!
Peter McGarty
Uh a meal in downtown Ann Arbor for four for under $100 dollars. I didn’t think that was possible and to have it be this good too… Wow. Went here for Mother’s Day and started with the shrimp and the sprouts. Shrimp were very good and crispy but the Brussels sprouts were heavenly. Super crispy with plenty of bacon. I had the fish tacos and the fish was super crunchy maybe just add a little more sauce. I really enjoyed the corn tortillas they came in which were lightly fried to give them a little crispness. UPDATE: Revisited in Mother’s Day 2024. Prices have gone up significantly. The charcuterie board was great. The Lox appetizer was too heavy on the horseradish. The duck was overcooked and dry. Fish tacos were still good.
Rana Siroosian
First time here. The service was great and the place had a good vibe. I ordered Tune Poke Bowl. It was good but it was different than the ones I’ve had before. There’s usually a sweet taste in the ingredients of the bowl but this instead had pickled daikon radish which had a very strong taste and I couldn’t eat more than one piece. There was only one & a half slice of avocado in the bowl which usually is more than that. The Brussels with bacon was really good but a bit oily, the coconut shrimp was very good. Overall it was a good experience and I would go back.
Sean Bengry
A great little cocktail bar in downtown Ann Arbor. The vibe and the cocktails are what really sells it. If you're looking for a laid back experience, with decent food and a good selection of cocktails, feel free to try this out They easily accommodated our party of four, without a reservation. Definitely worth a stop if you're downtown and down with craft cocktails.
Gail Kuhnlein
The food and atmosphere were delicious. We like booths and were seated in one of those round ones at the back. The decor was pretty with colored lights for the holidays. I felt a little cramped in the booth but my husband, who’s taller, was fine. My Mediterranean Pasta was delicious, but unfortunately, most of the artichoke pieces were too tough or sharp. If it wasn’t for that, it would have been a favorite. I ordered it with shrimp, which were perfect. My husband liked his Michigan trout, mashed potatoes and salad. We shared a triple chocolate cheesecake that was worth every calorie. Yum. Their desserts are made there from scratch, I believe.
How to reach The Ravens Club
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Why The Ravens Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Ravens Club with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family for a memorable night out at The Ravens Club in Ann Arbor is an excellent choice because it offers a unique blend of atmosphere, culinary delights, and social vibrancy that sets it apart from typical dining spots. With a strong reputation, boasting a high rating of 4.5 from over 1,100 reviews, this venue has proven to consistently satisfy its customers, making it a trusted destination for a group gathering. What truly draws people together here is the subtle yet captivating ambiance reminiscent of a classic speakeasy, which combines historic charm with a modern twist. The setting—highlighted by a massive oak bar and cozy booths—creates an intimate and welcoming space perfect for socializing and celebration alike. Additionally, The Ravens Club’s dedication to quality cocktails, including inventive drinks and whiskey flights, gives friends the opportunity to explore shared tastes and bond over experiences unavailable elsewhere. For groups seeking a place that balances engaging conversation, great food, and a lively yet relaxed vibe, The Ravens Club offers an unbeatable combination that makes every gathering feel special and thoroughly enjoyable.
What activities make The Ravens Club perfect for a group meetup?
The Ravens Club is thoughtfully designed to cater to groups, making it an ideal venue for meetups with friends or family. Firstly, it delivers an exceptional culinary experience with a menu that emphasizes "heirloom cuisine," marrying classic dishes with local Michigan ingredients. Sharing plates such as their celebrated Lobster Mac and Cheese or the adventurous chorizo with cornbread cake encourages communal dining and conversation. The restaurant also offers unique options like fried pig’s ears or expertly prepared charcuterie plates featuring in-house house-made rillettes and terrines, which add an element of culinary discovery perfect for adventurous groups. Beyond food, The Ravens Club hosts live jazz several nights a week, which helps energize the atmosphere and makes gatherings feel like special events in themselves. Whether you are savoring artisan cheese alongside a glass of wine or tapping your foot to bluesy sounds while enjoying a cocktail, the entertainment is crafted to create shared memorable moments. Additionally, the sophisticated cocktail menu, including rotating punches and Michigan whiskey flights, invites communal tasting adventures. All these elements combined foster an environment that is both engaging and relaxing, allowing groups to linger comfortably while enjoying diverse tastes and experiences together.
How does The Ravens Club’s atmosphere contribute to a group’s experience?
The Ravens Club’s atmosphere plays a critical role in making it a favorite for social gatherings. Its decor exudes a timeless elegance with a speakeasy-inspired style, featuring dim lighting, polished oak bars, and vintage furnishings that evoke nostalgia while ensuring comfort. This setting invites groups to settle in deeply and enjoy one another’s company without the distractions typical of louder, less intimate venues. The circular booths in the back are especially prized for accommodating groups in a way that feels both exclusive and inclusive, contributing to easy conversation and bonding. The venue’s smoky-sweet ambiance, enhanced with subtle jazz music, enriches the senses without overpowering the social energy of a group. Such an atmosphere encourages relaxation and connection, ideal for catching up with old friends or celebrating milestones. Moreover, the Ravens Club embraces an easy-going sophistication where patrons feel equally comfortable whether dressing up for a special night or simply unwinding after a long day. This balance of style and comfort makes the club a venue where groups feel well-cared for and eager to return.
What food and drink options enhance a group’s visit at The Ravens Club?
The Ravens Club offers a diverse and inventive menu that caters beautifully to group settings by encouraging sharing and tasting. Their food selection features small plates and entrees crafted with bold flavors and high-quality local ingredients, helping groups explore a spectrum of tastes. Signature dishes include steak tips with mashed potatoes, delicious cornbread with chorizo and a poached egg, and a luxurious lobster macaroni and cheese described as the best by many guests. For groups that appreciate charcuterie, the in-house made rillettes and terrines provide a deep dive into expert cured meats, offering a conversation starter and delicious pairing for drinks. On the drink front, The Ravens Club shines with its expertly made cocktails, including creative concoctions like the Corktown Honey Bee with rum, thyme, and lemon. Whiskey enthusiasts can indulge in flights featuring local Michigan drams, adding an educational and shared tasting aspect to the visit. The rotating punch on the drink menu adds a seasonal and festive flair that groups often enjoy together. These plentiful food and beverage options make every visit a culinary adventure, ideal for groups to share, sample, and savor side by side.
What practical features support hosting a group at The Ravens Club?
Practical considerations are crucial in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable group meetup, and The Ravens Club thoughtfully addresses these needs. The venue offers comfortable seating arrangements including large circular booths and tables that accommodate groups without feeling cramped. Its open hours from Tuesday through Sunday, mainly in the evening, make it convenient for coordinating group plans after work or during weekends. Accessibility is another important feature; the venue is wheelchair friendly, ensuring that guests of all mobility levels can participate and enjoy the experience together. The attentive and friendly service staff contribute to a hassle-free visit, receiving praise for their helpfulness and knowledge of the menu, which is invaluable when managing multiple orders for a group. Additionally, The Ravens Club's commitment to cleanliness and pandemic safety protocols offers peace of mind, allowing groups to feel secure while socializing. These practical aspects combine to make The Ravens Club an accommodating and considerate choice for hosting casual get-togethers or special occasions with friends and family.
How does live jazz and entertainment enhance group meetups at The Ravens Club?
Live jazz is a signature part of what sets The Ravens Club apart as an exceptional venue for groups looking to share an experience beyond just dining. Hosting music several nights per week, with performances by notable local and even visiting artists, the club offers an inspiring soundtrack that adds warmth and energy to any gathering. The genres often explore blues, jazz standards, and improvised music, creating a vibrant and sophisticated ambiance that appeals to both casual listeners and music aficionados. This live element transforms a simple dinner or drinks into a memorable night out filled with sensory richness. Jazz encourages conversation and relaxation, offering both a communal rhythm and a cultural touchstone that groups bond over. The music also attracts a creative crowd, adding to the vibrant social atmosphere ideal for groups wanting a night filled with more than just food and drink. It promotes a sense of occasion and encourages guests to linger and enjoy the night at their own pace, enhancing the overall group experience.
Why does The Ravens Club’s location and vibe matter for group gatherings?
Situated on Main Street in downtown Ann Arbor, The Ravens Club benefits hugely from its prime location that is both accessible and steeped in local culture. Being centrally located means groups can easily combine a visit here with other activities such as shows, shopping, or strolling through the vibrant downtown area surrounding it. The venue itself contributes to the cultural fabric of Ann Arbor with its emphasis on local food and drink, which appeals to those who want to connect with the community or show visitors a taste of Michigan’s best. The historical tone of the building and decor helps groups step away from everyday life and feel transported, enhancing the feeling of a distinctive gathering place. The club’s balance of upscale yet approachable vibe makes it suitable for diverse group occasions, from casual reunions to celebratory dinners. This combination of location, vibe, and cultural integration gives groups a fuller, richer experience that sparks conversation, laughter, and shared memories.
What makes The Ravens Club a reliable choice for hosting friends or family?
Reliability is a key factor when deciding on a venue for group events, and The Ravens Club has earned a reputation as a dependable choice with consistently positive reviews and a high customer rating reflecting satisfaction with food, drinks, and overall experience. Guests often highlight the combination of excellent service, quality cuisine, and a comfortable yet distinctive setting as reasons they return. The staff’s proficiency in handling groups, the intentional design of the seating, and the extensive menu options mean that nearly any group dynamic is accommodated. Whether planning an intimate gathering or a larger get-together, the Ravens Club provides a welcoming environment where everyone feels included and cared for. This track record of delivering on expectations builds confidence, assuring hosts that their meetup will not only be enjoyable but also smoothly managed. From the initial reservation to the final toast, The Ravens Club stands out as a gathering place that respects both the group’s time and their desire for a quality experience.
In summary, The Ravens Club combines atmosphere, culinary innovation, live entertainment, and practical amenities to create a distinguished venue perfect for group meetups. Its combination of classic design, local flavors, and attentive service ensures each visit is a special occasion worth repeating. Whether celebrating birthdays, hosting a reunion, or simply enjoying a night out with friends or family, gathering at The Ravens Club promises a rich and enjoyable experience.