When asking yourself about something to do near me in Atlanta with a group of friends or family, consider
Urban Hai
Why Urban Hai is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Urban Hai, located in Midtown Atlanta at 77 12th St NE Suite 7, is an exceptional dining spot offering authentic Chinese cuisine led by Chef Hai Wang and restaurateur Gary Lin. The restaurant draws from diverse regional Chinese culinary traditions, featuring dishes such as duck specialties, dim sum style small plates, northern Chinese favorites like Mapo Tofu, clay pot offerings, and popular American-Chinese staples including Mongolian beef and orange chicken. The contemporary, spacious setting, occupying a 3,622-square-foot space in a vibrant area known for its art and cultural attractions, offers a comfortable venue for friends and families to gather. Urban Hai provides generous portion sizes that cater well to groups, coupled with a full bar to complement the meal, making it a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for social dining. The restaurant's hours accommodate lunch and dinner all week, perfect for casual meetups or special occasions. With easy access to nearby MARTA stations and ample parking, Urban Hai is conveniently situated for locals and visitors alike looking for an authentic and flavorful Chinese dining experience in Atlanta.
Here's what people think of Urban Hai
As of recent, Urban Hai holds a 4.6-star rating based on 750 reviews.
Customers generally praise Urban Hai for its authentic flavors and generous portion sizes, which create a satisfying experience especially for family meals and group outings. Positive reviews highlight the deliciously seasoned dishes, attentive and friendly service, and the high quality of food preparation, with favorites including the tender steak, tofu, and the vibrant variety of dishes. Many appreciate the contemporary ambiance and the full bar that adds to the overall dining experience. However, some negative feedback mentions occasional cleanliness concerns such as cluttered tables and dirty plates, which somewhat detracts from the atmosphere. A few customers also note that some dishes can be a bit salty or oily. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment is favorable, with users recommending Urban Hai for its authentic cuisine, generous servings, and the engaging dining environment. The restaurant maintains a strong reputation in the Atlanta culinary scene, appreciated both for its culinary excellence and for being a great place to meet with friends or enjoy a family meal.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lindsey Jackson
Urban Hai is so so so good!!! It’s so many vegan options. The food is incredible and the drinks! They have $2 wines for the first glass Monday-Friday before 5 (I think). The food, service and atmosphere is amazing! I highly recommend the spicy crunch tofu, the Singapore noodles, the lo mein, the half duck, grandma’s noodles, bang bang shrimp, the scallion pancake, the soups (yes we tried a bunch of food) you can’t beat the price! This place is incredible! I will be back over and over again!
Patrick Bennett
Urban Hai, in the middle of midtown, feels like one of those places where the universe finally decides to be kind for an evening. The staff beam at you as though you’ve just won a small war, and maybe you have, against bland food, against mediocrity. Cocktails arrive like cheerful conspirators, bright and mischievous, while the scallion bubble pancake balloons into something both absurd and perfect, like life, if you let it. Then comes the Szechuan beef in hot oil, red and glistening, a reminder that pain and pleasure often share the same bed. The stir-fried sweet bean shrimp dances around in colors so beautiful you almost forgive humanity for everything else it’s botched. If aliens came down tomorrow and demanded proof that we still deserved to stick around, I’d take them to Urban Hai and let the spices argue our case.
Heba I
Loved the place! Its nice for dine in as a date with a beloved one, tge area is nice for a walk after eating its close to Atlantic station and the downtown. We had to park somewhere and pay for the parking. Their food was good but I wanted siracha sauce or something spicy they only had the spicy oil no sauces of any type! Was disappointing I didn’t fully enjoy my food because of that. Other than that it was a nice experience but they are a bit high in price
望幸丹羽
Amazing food and service! Restaurant was also very clean. The waiter noticed we were taking pictures of our dishes and he offered to take a few shots for us even though he was very busy. We ordered a few dishes and they were all great. We visited a few months ago and my mother still talks about the great taste.
Kaci
Very unpleasant to hear bugs zapping next to me while I’m trying to enjoy my meal. Literal flies being zapped and falling on the counter. Food however is good, just don’t sit in this location if you’re easily grossed out.
How to reach Urban Hai
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Website: None
Why Urban Hai may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Urban Hai with your friends? Urban Hai is an exceptional destination for gatherings due to its unique combination of authentic Chinese cuisine and a welcoming, contemporary atmosphere that perfectly suits groups. The restaurant’s focus on "dim sum style" small plates and shareable dishes encourages communal dining, making it easier and more enjoyable to try a variety of flavors alongside friends or family. Its location in Midtown Atlanta provides convenient access, including proximity to MARTA stations, which makes meeting up hassle-free for everyone. The modern, spacious interior with a casual yet stylish vibe sets the right tone for socializing while enjoying a culinary adventure. Whether you want to sit down for a relaxed dinner or enjoy a lively lunch, Urban Hai’s attentive service and thoughtfully crafted menu ensure a memorable experience that appeals to both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar American-Chinese classics. This friendly and vibrant setting, supported by a 4.6-star rating from 750 reviews, highlights Urban Hai as a standout venue for any group meetup looking to share great food and conversation in a comfortable environment.
What activities and dishes make Urban Hai perfect for group meetups? Urban Hai’s core appeal for groups lies in its array of authentic Sichuan and Northern Chinese dishes served predominantly in small, shareable portions. This style inherently encourages guests to order multiple dishes and enjoy a diverse tasting experience together. Signature items like the whole roasted Peking duck showcase impressive flavors that become a central focus for groups to gather around and enjoy collectively. The menu also includes intriguing options such as spicy deep-fried cauliflower, hot and numbing flounder, crispy pig feet, fried eggplant with Thai sauce, and spicy beef tendon, allowing adventurous eaters to explore unique tastes. For those preferring milder or more familiar flavors, American-Chinese favorites like Kung Pao chicken, General Tso’s chicken, orange chicken, and Mongolian beef are available, offering a balance suitable for all palates. Importantly, Urban Hai’s kitchen is fast and efficient, which means groups won’t have to wait long between dishes, maintaining energy and social flow. The rotating quarterly menu adds a layer of novelty, giving frequent diners new reasons to return and try different items, perfect for groups who meet regularly and want fresh experiences.
Why is Urban Hai’s menu so well-suited for social dining? Urban Hai’s menu is thoughtfully crafted with variety and shareability in mind, making it an ideal choice for group dining where sharing and tasting a wide range of dishes enhances the experience. The "dim sum style" small plates provide manageable servings that invite guests to sample multiple flavors without overeating. Dishes like the Scallion Bubble Pancake with curry dipping sauce offer a fun and unique communal appetizer, setting a convivial tone from the start. The chef’s specialty in Sichuan cuisine introduces the signature "ma la" (hot and numbing) flavor profile, delivering both heat and depth, which sparks lively conversation among diners about tastes and spice levels. For groups with diverse preferences, Urban Hai accommodates spiciness adjustments and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to dietary needs. The presence of noodle and rice dishes, including the standout shredded chicken Dan Dan noodles tossed in chili oil and sesame sauce, complements the menu’s broader offerings with familiar staples that round out the meal. This balance of adventurous, traditional, and comforting dishes cultivates an inclusive dining experience that suits groups with varied tastes.
What makes the atmosphere at Urban Hai conducive to group gatherings? The ambiance at Urban Hai strikes a successful balance between casual comfort and modern chic, which encourages relaxed socializing without compromising on style. The restaurant’s spacious interior includes large tables that can accommodate groups comfortably, allowing everyone at the table to interact easily. Natural lighting and contemporary design elements create a bright, inviting space that feels open rather than cramped, enhancing the overall group experience. The casual vibe attracts a diverse clientele, including many local students and young professionals, fostering a lively yet approachable environment. Friendly, attentive service complements the physical space — staff are known for being courteous and efficient, which helps groups feel well cared for throughout their visit. The option to reserve tables adds convenience for planned meetups, ensuring that your party has the right space waiting. The location in Midtown, a vibrant and accessible part of Atlanta, further enhances the social appeal, making Urban Hai not just a place for food but a hub for coming together with friends or family.
Why is Urban Hai’s drink and bar selection beneficial for meetups? Urban Hai’s full bar complements its culinary offerings by providing a variety of beverages that enhance social occasions and make group gatherings more festive. Whether patrons prefer classic cocktails, local craft beers, or non-alcoholic drinks, the bar offers options suited to varied tastes, helping maintain a lively and relaxed atmosphere. Pairing drinks with the rich flavors of Sichuan and Northern Chinese cuisine allows guests to fully enjoy the depth and complexity of the dishes while also catering to those who enjoy a well-matched beverage. The bar’s cocktail selection often complements the spicy and umami-forward menu, delivering refreshing contrasts or complementary notes. With a casual yet hip vibe at the bar area, it is a perfect space for informal meetups or to start a meal with drinks before ordering food. The availability of drinks throughout the day, as Urban Hai is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, makes it a versatile spot for different types of social plans, from midday lunches to evening celebrations.
How does Urban Hai accommodate accessibility and convenience for groups? Accessibility and convenience are key elements that make Urban Hai a practical meeting spot for groups. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that guests with mobility needs are welcomed and accommodated. Its Midtown Atlanta location boasts close proximity to major MARTA rail stations, including Midtown Station and Arts Center Station, allowing easy access via public transit for anyone in the metro area. For those traveling by car, ample nearby parking options add to the convenience of gathering at this location. Urban Hai supports modern dining preferences by offering reservation options, takeout, and delivery services, adapting smoothly to group needs whether on-site or for off-premises gatherings. Its clean, spacious interior promotes safety and comfort, important considerations for guests in any social scenario. These elements together make it easy not only to plan meetups but also to enjoy them fully, knowing that logistical concerns are addressed by the restaurant’s infrastructure and service.
Why is Urban Hai recommended for repeat group visits? Urban Hai’s commitment to evolving its menu and maintaining high-quality execution is a major draw for groups looking for a dependable and interesting venue. The kitchen's willingness to rotate seasonal dishes every three months keeps the dining experience fresh, appealing to groups who gather regularly and want new flavors to explore together. Customers consistently praise the balance of authenticity and modernity in the food, and rave about standout dishes like Grandma’s Noodles, Peking duck, and Hot and Numbing Flounder, ensuring that even repeat visits feel rewarding. Additionally, the attentive service and casual yet polished atmosphere build a comfortable environment where groups can feel at home. With a strong average rating of 4.6 from 750 reviews, Urban Hai demonstrates a proven track record of customer satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for group meetups that demand quality food, ambiance, and service. Its combination of culinary creativity and approachable dining encourages groups to keep returning to discover what’s new on the menu and enjoy familiar favorites.
What cultural and culinary experience does Urban Hai offer to group diners? Urban Hai presents a distinctive opportunity to experience authentic Chinese cuisine that goes beyond the typical American-Chinese offerings, making group meals here both a cultural and culinary exploration. The restaurant highlights flavors and dishes from various regions of China, especially Sichuan, with its bold, spicy, and numbing profiles that deliver complex taste sensations. Items like the garlic cucumber salad with its potent, pesto-like garlic sauce and the fermented tofu and chili oil-coated dan dan noodles deliver genuine regional depth that invites group discussion and shared discovery. The inclusion of less conventional dishes such as curdled duck blood soup, fried bullfrog, and spicy beef tendon introduces adventurous groups to authentic Chinese culinary traditions rarely found in typical venues. At the same time, Urban Hai balances these adventures with approachable dishes and presentation, allowing diners of all backgrounds to enjoy and learn about the richness of Chinese food culture in a social setting that facilitates conversation and bonding.
Why is Urban Hai a well-rounded venue for diverse group needs? Urban Hai shines in its versatility, making it a smart choice for groups with diverse preferences and needs. Its menu accommodates a wide range of dietary restrictions, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, ensuring that no one in the group feels left out. The adjustable spice levels also allow diners with different heat tolerances to enjoy the dishes comfortably, fostering inclusion. Moreover, the variety of portion sizes and shareable plates means that groups can tailor orders to fit their appetite and budget. The restaurant’s location in a bustling part of town with easy transit connectivity adds to its accessibility for groups coming from different parts of Atlanta. With this thoughtful approach to food, service, and space, Urban Hai meets the requirements of social gatherings large and small, casual or celebratory, culinary adventurers or comfort food seekers, making it an ideal destination for friends or family wanting to connect over a remarkable meal.
In summary, Urban Hai is a stellar choice for hosting meetups with friends or family because it offers authentic and diverse Chinese dishes served in a shareable format, a welcoming and spacious atmosphere, and attentive service designed to accommodate groups comfortably. Its location, full bar, and accessibility features add practicality to the appeal, while the rotating seasonal menu ensures fresh and exciting experiences for returning diners. Whether your group is craving traditional Sichuan spices, unique duck specialties, or more familiar American-Chinese flavors, Urban Hai brings together the best of culinary authenticity and social enjoyment in Midtown Atlanta.