When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
The Walnut Room
Why The Walnut Room is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Walnut Room in Chicago is an iconic restaurant celebrated as the oldest continuously operated restaurant inside a department store, located on the seventh floor of Macy's on State Street. Known for its historic charm, the Walnut Room offers a unique dining experience, especially during the holiday season when a majestic 45-foot Christmas tree becomes the centerpiece, creating an enchanting atmosphere that draws families and tourists alike. The restaurant features a classic wood-paneled interior that adds to its nostalgic vibe, making it a memorable place to meet friends for a relaxed meal or special celebration. Besides its standout seasonal decor, The Walnut Room also serves timeless American dishes such as meatloaf, chicken pot pie, salads, and sandwiches, catering to a variety of tastes. It offers a full bar with a selection of both nostalgic '70s fruity cocktails and strong classic drinks like the Old Fashioned with walnut bitters, enhancing the dining experience. The spacious setting includes private seating options suitable for groups, and the location inside Macy's allows visitors to enjoy shopping before or after their meal. With its blend of historical significance, festive ambiance, and approachable food selections, The Walnut Room remains a beloved gathering spot in Chicago.
Here's what people think of The Walnut Room
As of recent, The Walnut Room holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1437 reviews.
Reviews of The Walnut Room reflect a mix of appreciation for its atmosphere and historic significance along with critiques of its food. Many users praise the restaurant for its magical holiday decor and festive ambiance, especially highlighting the experience of dining near the enormous Christmas tree during the season. Visitors note the nostalgic and warm atmosphere of the wood-paneled dining room and the friendly service. Positive reviews often mention the quality of the classic American menu offerings, such as meatloaf and sandwiches, and the appealing cocktail selections, which include traditional favorites enhanced with unique touches like walnut bitters. The environment is described as a perfect blend of historic elegance and casual comfort, making it a great spot for family gatherings and meetups with friends. On the other hand, some reviewers find the food unremarkable or just "fine," pointing out that the restaurant is more of a holiday spectacle than a destination for memorable cuisine. Outside the holiday season, the space can feel quieter and less lively, with empty tables and a dimmer ambiance. Despite some critiques on the menu, many guests appreciate the overall experience, including the historical context and festive spirit. In conclusion, The Walnut Room stands out as a destination rich in Chicago tradition and holiday charm, ideal for those looking to enjoy a special setting with approachable food and drinks rather than a high-end culinary adventure.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katherine D
Should be busy all the time regardless of day. Had a wonderful time here. Pizza was great. The mini hot dog specials (Mondays- choice of chili cheese or Chicago) even had the SNAP of a good dog. Fantastic vibe and service. Get out here. Oh and they do have a small parking lot, so no excuse.
Steve Rybka
Favorite neighborhood spot for beers, pizza, wings, and sports. Their pickled flatbread pizza is my favorite thing in their menu. Get some chipotle ranch to go with. California Reuben caught me off guard with how great it was.
Joshua Eckhardt
Delicious pizza!! Great beer!! What more do you want?!?! I had the Cerebral White Noise, very refreshing, it absolutely hit the spot. Also, the Mediterranean pizza was awesome!
Ace Someh
I tried their JP pizza a while back and loved it. Tried it again a few days back and it wasn’t as good anymore, or maybe i remembered it wrong. I tried 4 dofferent pizzas, they were all meh. Prices were also insane. Cart driver in the area is more famous and even cheaper with way better dough
Dylan Todd
Came from out of town, this was right next to our BnB, and I'm glad it was! The food was crazy good, and the beer was solid as well. Service was fantastic, and I'm looking forward to coming back!
How to reach The Walnut Room
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Website: None
Why The Walnut Room may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Walnut Room with your friends?
Gathering at The Walnut Room offers an unmatched combination of warm ambiance, delicious food, and a uniquely festive atmosphere that makes it an ideal place to connect and celebrate with friends or family. Whether it's casual socializing or special gatherings, its rich history and cozy interior create an inviting environment where conversations flow easily and memories are made. The Walnut Room's exceptional reputation, supported by a strong 4.5-star rating from over 1,400 reviews, indicates consistent customer satisfaction and appreciation for its offerings. Guests frequently highlight the welcoming staff, flavorful dishes, and charming decor that blend to create a setting perfect for group meetups. Moreover, the venue's location in the heart of a bustling area and its inviting layout encourage a sense of community and relaxation, making it a go-to spot to rally your friends. The combination of friendly service, quality food, and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere helps cultivate a place where groups feel comfortable lingering over drinks and meals, fostering connection and enjoyment.
What activities can you do at The Walnut Room and why is it perfect for group meetups?
What kinds of food and drink experiences await groups at The Walnut Room?
The Walnut Room shines with its diverse and delicious food menu, which grabs the attention of groups seeking both variety and quality. Many visitors rave about standout items like the caprese flatbread, cauliflower wings, BBQ Blues pizza, and authentic Chicago-style tavern pizza, which keeps food lovers coming back. These dishes cater to different tastes within a group, appealing from vegetarians to meat lovers alike. The venue also offers carefully crafted drinks including a selection of ‘70s-era fruity cocktails and classic strong drinks such as Old Fashioneds with walnut bitters, satisfying a wide range of palates. Homemade touches, like their signature ranch dressing, further elevate the dining experience. Beyond the food and drink, the communal nature of sharing pizzas and flatbreads encourages interaction and bonding, making it an ideal spot for friends catching up or family gatherings. The reasonable pricing combined with the quality ensures groups enjoy their outing without worrying about overspending.
What kind of atmosphere can groups expect at The Walnut Room?
The Walnut Room excels at providing an atmosphere that balances intimacy and vibrancy, making it a top choice for social groups. Guests appreciate the cozy yet lively vibe – a place where the dark wood-paneled interior invites relaxation, while the occasional festive décor adds a spirited touch. This balance appeals to different group dynamics, from quiet conversations over dinner to lively celebrations with drinks. The setting is often described as evoking Chicago pub vibes, with a warm ambiance that is neither too formal nor too casual. Staff are noted for their friendliness and attentiveness, helping groups feel welcomed and taken care of throughout their visit. Its layout allows for comfortable seating arrangements conducive to group interaction, ensuring no one feels left out. Whether people come in for a quick bite or plan to spend several hours enjoying company, The Walnut Room’s inviting atmosphere encourages lingering and connection.
What makes The Walnut Room a reliable place for group gatherings in terms of service?
Service at The Walnut Room is frequently praised for its efficiency and friendliness, essential factors when hosting groups. Several customers mention the bartenders and waitstaff as fantastic and helpful, creating a smooth experience even during busy times. Attentive service makes a significant difference for groups who appreciate staff who understand the dynamics of serving multiple people with diverse preferences. From taking orders promptly to managing drink refills and recommendations for pairings, the staff help groups focus on each other rather than logistical hassles. Groups also benefit from staff who can handle the complexities of shared billing, special requests, and accommodating large parties seamlessly. This reliable service contributes directly to the relaxed and enjoyable environment for which The Walnut Room is known, helping groups feel prioritized and cared for from arrival to departure.
How does The Walnut Room accommodate special occasions or celebrations for groups?
The Walnut Room is well-suited to hosting special celebrations or occasions, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to group visits. Many customers have chosen it for birthday dinners, family meetups, and other milestone events due to its warm, festive setting and meticulous service. The restaurant’s decor, especially during holiday seasons, enhances the celebratory mood with magical lights and a central location that feels special and memorable. The flexibility of the menu and staff willingness to cater to group preferences or dietary needs also plays a key role in successful celebrations. Whether a group needs a semi-private area or simply a warm, buzzing backdrop for a festive night out, The Walnut Room can accommodate these needs gracefully. Their ability to handle groups, along with rave reviews about the overall experience, makes it a trusted choice for marking important moments with friends or family.
Why do reviews consistently recommend The Walnut Room as a meetup location for groups?
The Walnut Room’s solid 4.5 rating from over 1,400 reviews highlights a strong track record for group satisfaction. Reviewers cite the combination of fantastic food, great drinks, and a unique welcoming atmosphere as reasons they return with friends or family repeatedly. The venue's reputation for quality homemade dishes and attentive staff ensures groups do not only enjoy a meal but also the company around them without any distractions or frustrations. Many emphasize the comfortable setting that encourages long conversations, laughter, and sharing, all critical components of a successful group meetup. Its location in an accessible and lively area also makes it convenient for friends coming from different places to rendezvous easily. Even first-time visitors often become repeat guests after discovering the joy of gathering at The Walnut Room, confirming its strong standing as a group-friendly destination.
How suitable is The Walnut Room for various group sizes and types?
Whether your group consists of close-knit friends, extended family, or colleagues, The Walnut Room provides a flexible environment catering to different group sizes and occasions. The seating arrangements comfortably accommodate small to medium-sized groups, ensuring everyone can sit together and interact without feeling cramped. The venue’s layout balances spaciousness with intimacy, preventing a noisy or rushed feel common in crowded places. Additionally, there’s an appeal for varied group types – from casual hangouts over pizza and cocktails to more formal celebrations requiring attentive service and special touches. The Walnut Room’s menu diversity, accommodating dietary preferences and cravings alike, makes it easy for everyone to find something enjoyable. This adaptability contributes to why so many groups find themselves returning, confident that their particular needs will be met with care and quality.
The Walnut Room stands out as a consummate venue for group gatherings, excelling in food quality, atmosphere, service, and overall experience. Whether you're rallying your closest friends or hosting a family meetup, it offers a unique blend of warmth, charm, and delicious fare that fosters memorable social connections.