When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Three Dollar Cafe
Why Three Dollar Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Three Dollar Cafe has been a beloved fixture in the Atlanta metro area for over 40 years, originating from the inspiring story of founder Won Woo, who arrived in America in 1979 with only $3 in his pocket. Since opening the first location in Sandy Springs in 1983, this family-friendly sports bar has grown to 10 locations throughout metro Atlanta. The Cafe is renowned especially for its signature fried chicken wings, which remain a crowd favorite to this day. In addition to wings, the menu features other well-loved items such as the Steak & Cheese, Buffalo Bleu, Fish Tacos, and a variety of fresh, made-to-order burgers. Whether you are looking to enjoy a casual family dinner, catch a favorite game on numerous screens, or meet up with friends for trivia and live music events, Three Dollar Cafe offers a lively and comfortable environment. Extensive beer selections and creative cocktails complement the food offerings, making it an ideal spot for laid-back socializing and sports viewing. The Cafe’s enduring presence and evolving service reflect a commitment to quality food, excellent customer service, and a warm community atmosphere suitable for all ages.
Here's what people think of Three Dollar Cafe
As of recent, Three Dollar Cafe holds a 3.9-star rating based on 1485 reviews.
Guests generally appreciate Three Dollar Cafe for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse drink options, and status as a great casual hangout spot. Positive reviews highlight the tasty and well-prepared food, mentioning dishes such as their delicious burgers and the famed wings. Many patrons value the lively setting enhanced by music, trivia, and plentiful televisions for sports fans, making it a popular location for group outings and fun nights. The selection of beers and cocktails receive notable praise as well, supporting its reputation as a top sports bar in Atlanta. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to inconsistent service, including reports of being understaffed or slow wait times, and food quality that, while generally good, can occasionally be described as mediocre or just average bar food. There are also a few complaints about seating comfort and customer service responsiveness. Overall, Three Dollar Cafe maintains a strong appeal as a casual place to relax, enjoy sports, and share a meal with friends, despite some variability in service and food experiences. This balance of positive atmosphere and occasional operational challenges is typical for busy, multi-location casual eateries.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sue Hussan
We came tonight for the second time as we love the fried mushrooms. My boyfriend loves the mango harbingers. I ordered the fish tacos, they are so delicious. The first visit, i ordered the Cajun chicken pasta. The food is really good!
Asia W
The manager needs a lesson in customer service.. the menu says one thing but they charge another. Tater Tots is listed under regular sides but they want to charge $1 extra if you want instead of fries. Idc about paying extra if it’s something I really want but they’re both potatoes fried.. be for real. He was so rude talking about it comes from corporate but his snappy attitude told me it was coming from him because he could’ve allowed it, but he chose to lose business instead. Oh and the host was just eating chicken wings at the host stand/register right there for guests to see.. how gross & unsanitary. NGL I-C-E needs to come back and check this place out ASAP
Maria Martinez
It was not bad. I personally think (just my opinion) that servers should know whats in the dressings or etcetc...asked a few questions and said idk but its green or idk but... ... i rather hear let me find out for u. Because i like to eat out and i have allergies so its crucial to have staff know... sm amnt of chicken. Chicken was so delicious. Thought western or salads like this had corn but everyone makes them diff. From vid looks just enough, i shouldve took a side view vid, the lettuce was pilled high which is good but compared to chicken. They didNOT have Gluten-free bread to try the infamous fish sandwich and they didnt have corn tortilla to try the taco. Not much GF friendly.
Shaharazad Stephens
I’m on a strict diet, but this place had food options for myself and the person I went with. It’s good if you’re going with a mix of dietary restrictions. The servers have a team effort so there’s constantly someone checking on you. The environment has a chill vibe.
Karen Wowk
Incompetent staff all around. Got simple order wrong 3x (chicken fingers tossed in buffalo sauce) kept blaming the kitchen yet she would bring it to table and act like thats what I had ordered. First time she brought them plain, second time she brought them sprinkled in lemon pepper powder and the 3rd they tossed the lemon pepper in buffalo sauce...seriously? Went to the counter and told manager the situation and that i didn't want the food anymore and to take off ticket. She was also annoyed and rude. When the waitress finally appeared and brought check, the chicken fingers were still in check. Walked to counter and "manager" said "whats wrong now!" I said, you are still charging me for the chicken fingers. Left the ticket and walked back to my table. The rude waitress appeared again and said they would remove the chicken fingers but we need to pay, told her we didn't have the ticket and she kept arguing that we did. She left again and then sent another waitress to our table to bring ticket Zero ownership of the mistakes made, at no point did the manager apologize for the errors. The waitress just kept saying it was the kitchen fault..yet she kept bringing the wrong food so she simply didn't care. We used to come to this location once a week but will never come back..week after week the service has been declining.
How to reach Three Dollar Cafe
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Why Three Dollar Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Three Dollar Cafe with your friends?
If you’re looking for a casual, lively spot to gather with friends or family, Three Dollar Cafe stands out as a top choice. With a solid 3.9 rating from nearly 1,500 reviews, this chain has proven itself as a go-to hangout spot, especially for those who appreciate a sports bar atmosphere combined with hearty, flavorful food. What makes Three Dollar Cafe truly inviting for a group meetup is its perfect blend of comfort, variety, and entertainment. The atmosphere is laid-back and family-friendly but also vibrant enough for an evening out with friends. Whether you’re craving classic bar snacks, like their highly praised wings and nachos, or interested in joining one of the many events such as trivia or live music nights, this place fosters a sense of community and fun. It caters to groups with a wide selection of beer and cocktails, making it easy to toast to good times. The venue encourages social interaction without pretense, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable whether they’re catching a game or celebrating a casual night out. With multiple locations around Atlanta, Three Dollar Cafe is an accessible and reliable spot that’s great for creating memories with friends and family.
What kind of food and drinks can groups expect at Three Dollar Cafe?
Three Dollar Cafe is known for serving classic American bar food made fresh, with several menu items ideal for sharing among groups. Their wings enjoy a reputation for being among the best in Atlanta, praised for both their flavor and quality. Alongside wings, their nachos feature generous toppings and plenty of cheese, sure to satisfy large parties looking to snack between conversations. The menu also boasts a variety of other options like burgers, steaks, fish tacos, and sandwiches — each prepared with fresh ingredients and avoiding pre-packaged shortcuts. While some reviews mention the food is good, not gourmet, it hits the mark for what you want in a sports bar setting. These dishes pair perfectly with their extensive drink menu, which includes a large selection of beers—covering local craft brews and popular favorites—along with a cocktail menu that can please any palate. For groups, this combination of solid food and varied drinks helps keep the energy up and conversations flowing, making it easy to settle in for a few hours.
How does Three Dollar Cafe’s atmosphere support group meetups?
A key ingredient to Three Dollar Cafe’s appeal is the welcoming, engaging atmosphere it nurtures. The vibe is lively yet comfortable, designed to cater to various group types, from families to friend circles or sports fans. The restaurant functions also as a sports bar, often featuring big games on TVs throughout the venue, providing a shared experience to rally around and cheer together. Beyond sports, the cafe runs regular community-oriented events like trivia nights and live music that encourage participation and group interaction. The space itself supports socializing—with large tables, booths, and a bar area ideal for people to gather closely. Staff are attentive and experienced in handling groups, which helps maintain a smooth experience even during busy times. This environment makes Three Dollar Cafe more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a natural setting for social connection and celebration.
What activities and events make Three Dollar Cafe perfect for meetups?
Three Dollar Cafe goes beyond providing good food and drink by offering multiple activities that keep groups entertained during gatherings. Trivia nights are regular events that encourage friendly competition while engaging everyone in the group. Live music sessions add an upbeat and communal energy, making the cafe a hub for social nights out. For sports fans, televised games provide a reason to gather and cheer together, with group seating arrangements that enhance the camaraderie. Some locations even host themed events or fundraisers, which can add meaning and variety to your meetups. These happenings turn a simple outing into a memorable experience, giving groups a reason to keep coming back. The mix of food, drink, music, games, and events creates a multi-faceted venue suitable for everything from casual happy hours to special celebrations.
Why is Three Dollar Cafe a family-friendly spot as well as a great place for friends?
Although Three Dollar Cafe is well known as a sports bar, it balances the adult social scene with a family-friendly environment. This makes it an excellent venue for groups that include kids or mixed-age friends and relatives. The menu offers diverse options that appeal to both children and adults, and the relaxed atmosphere avoids the intensity found in more adult-only bars. Many locations emphasize quality customer service and casual dining, making it easy for families to feel comfortable while enjoying a night out. If you want to host a family gathering, birthday party, or simply a group dinner where everyone can find something they like, Three Dollar Cafe delivers that versatility. This dual identity as both family and friend-friendly means it’s a flexible space that suits a wide array of group needs, fostering a welcoming space that’s not too formal or noisy.
How accessible and convenient is Three Dollar Cafe for hosting a meetup?
Three Dollar Cafe offers multiple locations around the Atlanta metropolitan area, including Alpharetta, Marietta, McDonough, and Sandy Springs, which helps make it an accessible choice for many groups. The chain’s growth reflects its ability to meet community needs effectively. This geographic spread means that no matter where your friends or family are based, there is likely a convenient spot nearby. In addition to walk-in service, many locations offer takeout and to-go options, useful for groups who might want to start their meetup at home or a nearby park but still enjoy the restaurant’s food. The cafe’s reputation as a casual and hospitable venue simplifies planning, providing enough space and amenities for large groups without the intimidation of upscale dining or the chaos of overly crowded bars. Whether planning a weekday evening or a weekend celebration, Three Dollar Cafe’s location variety and welcoming layout make organizing a group meetup straightforward and stress-free.
What do reviews say about the social experience and service at Three Dollar Cafe?
Customer feedback paints a picture of a fun and interactive environment with generally positive service. Many reviews highlight the staff’s friendliness and the lively social vibe as reasons to return. The presence of community events and fundraisers also speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to fostering connection beyond simply serving food. Some critiques exist regarding occasional slower service or management issues, but overall, patrons appreciate the casual, welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to relax with friends and family in a comfortable setting. The popularity among diverse groups—regular sports watchers, trivia players, families, and casual diners—attests to its success as a social hub. While the food quality receives mixed but mostly favorable mentions, it is the combination of good food, drink, and communal experience that truly defines Three Dollar Cafe’s appeal for group meetups.
What makes Three Dollar Cafe stand out among similar sports bars and casual dining spots?
Several factors give Three Dollar Cafe an edge compared to other sports bars and casual restaurants. Its focus on freshly made menu items, especially wings and bar staples, aligns with customer expectations for quality at reasonable prices. The multi-location presence within metro Atlanta caters to a broad demographic, providing consistency across neighborhoods. The emphasis on hosting events like live music and trivia diversifies the experience beyond merely watching sports or eating and drinking. Their family-friendly approach expands their potential clientele, attracting groups who want a relaxed but entertaining outing for all ages. Moreover, its roots and history as a local favorite, starting from humble beginnings and growing with the city, resonate with customers who value establishments with authentic community ties. This blend of quality food, varied entertainment, accessibility, and community orientation makes Three Dollar Cafe a compelling option to consider when planning your next group gathering.
Three Dollar Cafe offers much more than your typical bar and grill experience. Whether you’re aiming to enjoy a game day with friends, engage in trivia competition, listen to local music, or bring the whole family out for a casual dinner, it provides a versatile, energetic, and warm environment. With a wide menu designed to satisfy varied tastes and a spirited atmosphere that welcomes gatherings, it’s an excellent choice for any group wanting to rally together and enjoy good food, drinks, and company.