When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
Why Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is celebrated for its authentic Southern cuisine crafted from scratch using responsibly sourced ingredients, providing a soulful dining experience reminiscent of traditional Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains. With multiple locations, such as Milwaukee, Charlotte, Chattanooga, Myrtle Beach, and Boise, the restaurant is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere that evokes genuine Southern hospitality. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, including vegetarian and vegan options, making it an ideal spot for family dinners, date nights, business lunches, and special events. The extensive handcrafted cocktail list, local craft beers, and curated wines complement every meal perfectly. Many locations offer spacious outdoor patios that welcome furry friends, further enhancing the friendly and inclusive environment. Happy Hour specials provide excellent deals on drinks and food, creating a perfect gathering spot for friends and colleagues. Accessibility features, attentive service, and accommodating staff make Tupelo Honey a reliable and pleasant choice for various occasions. The consistency in delivering superior service and quality Southern food has earned the brand numerous accolades and a loyal customer base, making it a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy comforting, flavorful meals.
Here's what people think of Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
As of recent, Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar holds a 4.3-star rating based on 3865 reviews.
User reviews across various Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar locations consistently highlight the warm and welcoming atmosphere alongside the delicious, flavor-driven Southern dishes. Positive reviews frequently mention the scratch-made food, responsibly sourced ingredients, and vibrant bar selections, which include handcrafted cocktails and local beers. Many diners appreciate the attentive and upbeat staff, the accommodating nature of the service, and the appealing ambiance of both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Specific praise is given to the restaurant’s flexibility in hosting large groups and special events, with well-organized service that makes celebrations memorable. Customers also note the dog-friendly outdoor patios as a plus. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional inconsistencies in food preparation or slower service times during busy hours. A few guests have experienced issues with parking availability, especially near urban locations, and mention that some menu items may fall short of expectations compared to others. However, these criticisms are relatively infrequent and usually balanced by quick resolutions or positive management responses. Overall, the reviews indicate that Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is highly regarded for its flavorful Southern cuisine, superior hospitality, and vibrant communal environment, making it a favored destination for social dining and special occasions.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Erika Lowe
We had an amazing dining experience at Tupelo Honey in Raleigh! Our waitress, Katrina, was exceptional! She was attentive, friendly, and spot-on with her recommendations. I ordered the shrimp and grits, and they were absolutely delicious, perfectly seasoned, and comforting. The lavender lemonade transported me back to summers in England, strolling through the lavender fields. I also grabbed the sweet potato pancakes to go, and I can’t wait to try them! My husband enjoyed the chicken BLT with potato skins, while my son had crispy chicken tenders with onion rings, and my daughter loved her mac and cheese with fried okra. Everything was well-prepared and full of flavor. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the service made the experience even better. We’ll definitely be back!
Christina Mayes
Great brunch spot in Raleigh. The food never disappoints and the servers are all friendly. Plan to spend about an hour here but it’s worth it with the drinks and food options. The shrimp and grits were so flavorful and the chicken had a kick but a sweet flavor. The appetizers were so yummy. We’ve never got a dish we did not like here. The mega mimosas are also delicious and even though they are pricey the regular mimosa isn’t much cheaper so I go with the larger option.
AK C
This is an all around great restaurant. The atmosphere is genuinely beautiful; the decor is cool and vintage. The service is top tier. They make good recommendations, they’re quick and informative. The food is always delicious, it’s fresh and hot. I will be a regular for sure, we’ve been here twice and it never disappoints!
Kae Turner
My friends and I came here while on vacation from Ohio. We went there around 4 pm on a Wednesday and it wasn't busy at all. It was very clean and the staff were extremely friendly. We had friend okra, fried green tomatoes, biscuits, pan seared salmon, chicken tenders, as well as chicken and waffles. With the exception of the rosemary parmesean potatoes (good flavor but a bit too salty), all the food was good. I would highly recommend their lemonade as we tried the peach and matcha flavors. Shout out to our server Tate who did an excellent job serving us! For my fellow cup lovers: You can buy their glass cups if you ask 😉
Carla Perdomo
Phenomenal experiences we had here. The atmosphere was amazing and smell good and clean. The waitress was very friendly and polite and knew what she was doing, when asked about the food. I wanted to tried the shrimps and grits my husband got the waffle and chicken. The food was spectacular the flavor for me was an explosion in my mouth. It was awesome most definitely will be coming back to Tupelo Honey when I visit NC again.
How to reach Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
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Why Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar with your friends?
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar stands out as an exceptional venue for gathering with friends, blending mouth-watering southern cuisine with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're catching up over brunch or enjoying a casual dinner, the restaurant fosters a sense of warmth and camaraderie. With a 4.3 rating based on nearly 3,900 reviews, it's clear that many guests appreciate the quality of the food and service, making it a dependable choice for group outings. The dishes, such as the acclaimed Sriracha Honey Fried Chicken & Waffles or savory southern classics like smoky collard greens and cast iron pork, create a unique dining experience that sparks conversation and satisfies diverse palates. Moreover, the restaurant boasts a large patio that’s perfect for enjoying a relaxed, open-air environment, ideal for those seeking a casual yet vibrant setting. Combined with their happy hour specials and a menu designed for sharing, Tupelo Honey offers a fun, flavorful backdrop for friends to connect, laugh, and make memories together.
What activities and experiences make Tupelo Honey perfect for group meetups?
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar doesn’t just offer food; it offers an experience crafted to accommodate and delight groups. The expansive seating options—ranging from cozy indoors to a spacious outdoor patio—allow friends and family to gather comfortably in settings that suit their mood. The patio, although noted to sometimes need additional fans during hot weather, provides ample space for enjoying fresh air while dining. The happy hour specials, like affordable chicken and waffles, loaded potatoes, and fried sides, offer tasty options that encourage group sharing and casual conversation. Beyond food, Tupelo Honey’s brunch offerings bring an element of celebration to weekend gatherings, with standout dishes like the Southwest Omelet and sweet potato pancakes creating a festive vibe. Additionally, engaging in communal indulgence of sides such as creamy cheesy grits with shrimp and spicy chorizo or their smoky collard greens fosters a shared culinary adventure that brings groups closer together. The combination of great food, pleasant ambiance, and the chance to try unique southern flavors makes this spot ideal for meetups.
How does Tupelo Honey’s menu appeal to diverse tastes and group dining?
The menu at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar shines in its variety and ability to cater to different tastes within a group. From hearty southern comfort foods to innovative dishes with a modern twist, it suits those craving traditional flavors as well as those seeking something new and creative. For instance, the classic fried chicken and waffles can be paired with substitutions like sweet potato pancakes, appealing to sweet and savory preferences alike. Their seasonal and chef-inspired dishes ensure freshness and innovation, while staples like the buttery, freshly baked biscuits have charitable significance, giving patrons a feel-good reason to indulge. The inclusion of items such as shrimp and grits with goat cheese and chorizo adds a gourmet touch, offering layers of flavor that spice up group meals. Side dishes, often highlighted by guests, are perfect for sharing, creating a communal dining experience. This diversity on the menu makes Tupelo Honey a versatile spot where each person in a group can find something to enjoy, enhancing the social dynamic around the table.
What makes the ambiance and service at Tupelo Honey ideal for hosting a meetup?
One of the key draws of Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is its inviting ambiance, which blends southern charm with modern comfort, making it an inviting space for groups. The attentive and friendly service enhances the overall experience, ensuring that gatherings flow smoothly without stress. Many guests appreciate the warm hospitality and the servers' knowledge of the menu, which helps groups navigate the varied dishes and find crowd-pleasers. While some have noted minor issues like limited fans on the patio during hot days, the overall environment remains relaxed and lively. The restaurant's décor and large windows create a bright, airy setting that encourages lingering and conversation. Whether it's a brunch meetup or a spirited dinner catch-up, the attention to detail in service and ambiance supports a positive group experience where customers feel valued and at ease.
Why is Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar a great choice for special occasions?
Beyond casual meetups, Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is also well suited for celebrating special occasions with friends and family. The quality and presentation of dishes make every meal feel like a treat, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply marking a memorable day together. Their menu, which balances comfort food with chef-inspired creativity, helps elevate the dining experience without the formality of fine dining, making it accessible and enjoyable for groups of all ages. The lively atmosphere and options for both indoor and outdoor seating add flexibility, accommodating different preferences and group sizes. Additionally, the restaurant's commitment to community and employee support, evident in initiatives like the "Biscuits for a Cause" program, offers guests a meaningful way to connect beyond the meal itself. Celebratory drinks like mimosas at brunch or craft cocktails during happy hour add another layer of festivity that turns a simple meal into a joyful gathering spot.
How does Tupelo Honey cater to accessibility and convenience for group gatherings?
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is mindful of making group visits convenient and comfortable. Located in accessible areas such as Myrtle Beach and Asheville, the venues are positioned close to popular attractions and downtown hubs, making it easy to combine dining with other group activities like theater outings or gallery visits. The spacious layout, with plentiful seating options, reduces wait times for larger parties, supported by a reservation option that many diners find useful. Their friendly staff aids in managing group needs efficiently, from accommodating special dietary requests to handling large orders seamlessly. The combination of a diverse menu, attentive service, and strategic locations ensures that group meetups at Tupelo Honey run smoothly, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the company and the food.
What are the customer favorites and signature dishes that groups rave about?
Among the many culinary delights at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, several dishes consistently garner praise from groups and regular visitors. The Sriracha Honey Fried Chicken & Waffles is often cited as a highlight, expertly balancing sweet, spicy, and savory tastes. The Southwest Omelet, praised for its bold flavors, and the Mountain Harvest Bowl, packed with hearty ingredients, cater to diverse appetites and make sharing more fun. Side dishes like the smoky collard greens and creamy grits topped with shrimp and chorizo enrich the overall meal experience, providing flavors that feel authentic and satisfying. Guests also cherish the freshly baked biscuits, often enhanced by homemade jams, which are both a culinary treat and part of a meaningful charity program. These standout dishes not only impress individual palates but also serve as focal points around which groups bond as they share and savor.
What role does happy hour play in making Tupelo Honey a group hotspot?
Happy hour at Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar is a major draw for groups looking to unwind and enjoy bites and drinks together at a great value. The specials, including $5 chicken and waffles, loaded potatoes, and fried sides, encourage sharing and sampling within groups, reducing the stress and expense of ordering individual meals. These deals create a lively, casual atmosphere perfect for after-work gatherings or weekend meetups. Pairing these appetizers with well-crafted cocktails or classic southern-inspired drinks adds an element of fun without breaking the bank. The social vibe during happy hour is relaxed yet energetic, fostering a setting where friends and family can gather to celebrate the simple joy of good food and company. This makes Tupelo Honey not only a dining destination but also a social hub tailored for group enjoyment.
How does Tupelo Honey’s commitment to quality and community enhance the group experience?
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar's dedication to quality and community involvement adds depth to the group dining experience. Their focus on sourcing fresh ingredients and crafting dishes with care ensures that every bite is flavorful and satisfying, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of the South. Initiatives like "Biscuits for a Cause," which donates proceeds from biscuit sales to employee relief funds, connect patrons with a broader sense of purpose and community support. This spirit of care extends to customer service, where staff strive to create a welcoming environment for all guests. For groups, this means enjoying more than just a meal—they partake in a shared experience grounded in authenticity, kindness, and connection. Such values resonate with diners who seek meaningful encounters with friends amid great food and a hospitable setting.
Why should groups consider Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar for their next meetup?
Choosing Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar for a group meetup means opting for a venue that excels in food quality, ambiance, and service, all tailored to facilitate memorable social experiences. Its highly rated menu balances southern comfort food classics with inventive dishes that accommodate a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring all guests find something appealing. The spacious seating, combined with inviting indoor and outdoor areas, provides a comfortable setting for any occasion—from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. Affordable happy hour specials and thoughtful service add to the convenience and enjoyment of group outings. Moreover, the restaurant's commitment to community and employee support lends an added layer of satisfaction to the meal. All these factors make Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar a distinctive and reliable choice for friends or family looking to gather over great food and authentic southern hospitality.