When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Venue by 4M
Why Venue by 4M is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Venue by 4M, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, offers a uniquely versatile environment ideal for gathering with friends and community. It combines a stylish dining space with curated international cuisine and drinks, alongside an inviting bar and cozy café areas. Beyond dining, Venue by 4M sets itself apart as a flexible hub with indoor and outdoor event spaces, perfect for celebrations or casual meetups. Its open coworking areas, private offices, and meeting rooms also make it a great destination for friends who work remotely or freelance, facilitating a blend of productivity and socializing. The venue hosts live music events regularly, including Friday night patio shows and Saturday night jazz performances, which create a vibrant atmosphere for social gatherings. The beautifully designed outdoor patio offers a vibrant space to enjoy fresh air and entertainment. Venue by 4M accommodates various group sizes, with specialized spaces suited for intimate dinners or large gatherings up to 600 guests, making it an ideal meeting point regardless of occasion. Additionally, the venue offers short-term rentals for visitors or business associates, enhancing its appeal as a community-centered destination. Overall, the combination of fine dining, event hosting, coworking flexibility, and live entertainment makes Venue by 4M a great place to meet friends for food, fun, or work collaboration.
Here's what people think of Venue by 4M
As of recent, Venue by 4M holds a 4.3-star rating based on 380 reviews.
User reviews of Venue by 4M reflect a mostly positive experience, underscored by its appealing spaces and quality services, though some critique highlights occasional service and reservation handling issues. Many positive reviews emphasize the venue’s modern, stylish ambiance and the diversity of offerings, such as excellent curated international dishes, full bar services, and vibrant live music events. Patrons often praise the versatility of the venue, noting that it suits many purposes from casual dining to significant events or business meetings. The availability of indoor and outdoor event spaces, combined with coworking options and private offices, is frequently noted as a valuable and unique feature setting Venue by 4M apart in the Ann Arbor community. On the negative side, some reviewers express dissatisfaction with the handling of reservations and customer communication, indicating room for improvement in service coordination and guest interaction. A minority mention that these issues sometimes affect their overall experience but do not detract completely from the venue's key offerings. In conclusion, while Venue by 4M receives high marks for its versatility, atmosphere, and food quality, addressing service and reservation concerns would further enhance customer satisfaction and reinforce its reputation as a premier destination for meeting up with friends and hosting events.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Marybeth Ankofski
I hosted the best bridal brunch ever here! The staff was very helpful in choosing menu items for my guests (Including those that had dietary restrictions). I highly recommend the French toast! It definitely got the most compliments! This was a fun space with a more industrial vibe. There was plenty of room for the guests to mingle. Their employees were more than willing to meet our needs from the minute we walked in until the minute we left. The staff’s attention to detail brought my daughter‘s vision to life!
Mayghen Howell
This is a beautiful establishment. Service was amazing. Our waitress helped with recommendations and even helped do a “build a burger”. The Sour Cherry burger was outstanding! The flavors mixed well together. The Vacherin was one of the best desserts I’ve ever had!
A. Vaidya
ORIGINAL REVIEW: It was just…okay. We went in for Sunday brunch, tried the Eggs in Purgatory, a side of Banana bread, Biscuits and Gravy, and some caramel lattes. Everything tasted fine, good but nothing extraordinary, and certainly nothing that justified the relatively high prices. The best part of the experience was honestly the atmosphere, featuring a beautiful spacious and unique interior with live jazz music. EDIT: I’m updated my review after having dinner here, its dinner menu was much better than the brunch offerings! The pesto gnocchi, crispy brussel sprouts and were top notch! The rosemary bread was nice, soft, fresh, albeit a bit basic. The nachos were okay, but could use a bit more sauce, cheese, and overall flavor. The overall service was excellent and servers were very attentive and kind! The drinks were fine, the Pink Is The New Black was a standout, while the Beach Run was just okay and kind of just tasted like a bubbly Capri Sun. Overall, I would definitely recommend checking this place out for dinner, but for brunch you can probably go elsewhere.
soyeon klouds
I had a great experience at this restaurant. The space is spacious and clean, which made for a comfortable dining atmosphere. The food was flavorful without being overly salty—something I really appreciated. The pizza had a wonderfully chewy crust, and the veggies tasted super fresh. My favorite dish was the fish and chips. It wasn’t made with cod, but another type of fish (I can’t remember the name), and it was absolutely delicious—crispy on the outside and tender inside. I’d definitely come back again!
Sue Hart
Wow. This place is the bomb. What an awesome place. We loved the vibe here! Reese our server was so wonderful he was attentive and gave us amazing suggestions about dinner. The food was wonderful! We came here for my daughter’s 30th bday. We brought my 85 year old mother to enjoy celebrating her oldest grandchild’s special birthday! Reece really made our night. Our food and drinks were spot on. Dessert was amazing. Their expresso ice cream was the best I’ve ever had. . We live 45 minutes away and will drive over and over to come
How to reach Venue by 4M
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Why Venue by 4M may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When it comes to choosing a spot to gather with friends or family, Venue by 4M stands out as an exceptional choice. Located in Ann Arbor, this vibrant and versatile space combines the energy of a contemporary food hall with the comforts of a stylish event venue, making it ideal for social gatherings. With a strong rating of 4.3 based on 380 reviews, it clearly has won the hearts of many visitors. The essence of Venue by 4M lies in its ability to cater to diverse groups and occasion types, from casual hangouts to formal celebrations, all under one expansive roof. The bright, airy atmosphere—featuring high ceilings, modern white walls, and unique blue ceilings accented by palm trees—creates a refreshing vibe that invites conversation and celebration. Communication and client service are highly praised, ensuring that every detail from arrival to departure feels smooth and welcoming. This makes Venue by 4M a prime rallying point where you and your friends can relax, enjoy great food and drinks, and build memorable moments in a space designed to adapt to your group’s unique needs.
What activities can groups enjoy at Venue by 4M?
Venue by 4M offers a remarkable range of activities tailored for groups large and small, making it far more than a traditional restaurant or bar. The core of its appeal is the inclusive, multi-use environment that blends dining, cocktails, social events, and even workspaces beneath one roof. Guests can indulge in multiple culinary experiences with four distinct restaurant options, which ensures there's something for every taste—from elevated casual foods like classic burgers to gourmet, five-course dinners prepared by renowned chefs. The bar, praised for its excellent cocktails and selection, creates the perfect hub for happy hour or an evening hangout. Beyond food and drink, Venue by 4M hosts a variety of social events including wine tastings, dinner parties, and themed gatherings that can add excitement to any meetup. For those seeking a blend of fun and productivity, the venue features coworking spaces and offices, allowing groups to mix work and play seamlessly. Additionally, the venue includes event rooms and even a podcast studio, offering creative outlets for group activities like live recordings or workshops. Plenty of open, flexible space encourages mingling and movement, preventing any feeling of crowding or confinement.
Why is the atmosphere at Venue by 4M perfect for group meetups?
The atmosphere at Venue by 4M uniquely balances vibrancy with comfort, making it ideal for group gatherings. Its origins as a repurposed grocery store lend a distinctive industrial-chic aesthetic—complete with soaring ceilings and large open areas—that imbue the space with personality and character. Natural light floods in, and the color scheme featuring a signature blue ceiling and white walls punctuated with greenery keeps the environment fresh and uplifting. This bright atmosphere helps create an inviting space that hosts can decorate without worrying about clashing styles, whether for casual get-togethers or special events like weddings or milestone celebrations. While some have noted the acoustics can create an echo in larger party areas, this liveliness actually complements the energetic social vibe, encouraging animated conversations and laughter. The layout includes more intimate bar areas that offer coziness for smaller groups, as well as sprawling event spaces that can accommodate hundreds of guests, ensuring privacy when needed. The flexibility in ambiance means groups can experience everything from relaxed evenings sipping craft cocktails to elegant celebrations, all within the same venue.
How does Venue by 4M accommodate large and diverse groups?
One of Venue by 4M’s greatest strengths is its remarkable flexibility in hosting groups ranging from intimate parties to large celebrations of up to 400 guests. The venue’s design allows it to be configured in multiple ways to suit a wide variety of events, from seated dinners to strolling cocktail receptions. This adaptability makes it perfect for friends organizing casual meetups, family reunions, corporate events, or even weddings. For those wanting an outdoor experience, the venue boasts a spacious patio area large enough to host 200 guests, perfect for enjoying pleasant weather and socializing in an open-air environment. Inside, dedicated event coordinators and staff are on hand to assist in planning, ensuring everything runs smoothly from setup to cleanup. With amenities such as sound and lighting equipment available, the venue can create the right mood for any occasion, whether it’s a lively dance party or a cozy gathering. Furthermore, Venue by 4M’s sister property, Stays by 4M, offers convenient lodging within walking distance, easing logistics for out-of-town guests or groups extending their stay.
What makes the dining and beverage experience stand out at Venue by 4M?
Dining and drinks at Venue by 4M elevate the group meetup experience through quality and variety. Renowned Ann Arbor Chef Thad Gillies curates menus that cater to different preferences and event styles, ranging from casual, elevated comfort foods to gourmet five-course meals. This culinary versatility ensures groups can share plates or indulge individually without compromise. Guests often highlight the delicious food and ample portion options for all appetites. The on-site bar is celebrated for its impressive cocktail offerings, made with skill and creativity, providing excellent options for both casual sipping and celebratory toasts. Whether your group seeks a laid-back evening with craft beers and burgers or a refined night of wine pairings and artisanal dishes, Venue by 4M provides it with a focus on quality. Attentive, knowledgeable service staff complement the food and beverage experience, making sure that all guests feel cared for throughout their visit. This combination of diverse, high-end culinary options and top-notch service creates an environment where good company and great tastes come together seamlessly.
How does the venue’s event support enhance group gatherings?
Venue by 4M offers comprehensive event support that significantly enhances group gatherings, ensuring every detail is handled for a stress-free experience. The venue provides an event coordinator who works closely with hosts to customize layouts, menus, and ambience according to group needs and preferences. This means whether you’re planning a laid-back reunion or a formal event like a rehearsal dinner or wedding reception, expert guidance ensures the day unfolds perfectly. Rental options include everything from tables and chairs to lighting and sound equipment, allowing groups to design the space exactly how they envision it. The staff is known for being exceptionally helpful, friendly, and responsive both before and during events, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy themselves. Additionally, the venue offers liability insurance and in-house security, giving hosts peace of mind. The availability of on-site accommodations nearby via Stays by 4M elevates the convenience further, making this venue an all-in-one solution for extended celebrations involving friends and family from near and far.
What practical features make Venue by 4M a convenient meetup location?
Beyond its atmosphere and services, Venue by 4M is designed with practical features that make group meetups straightforward and enjoyable. Located in Ann Arbor near Detroit, the venue is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike, including those arriving via the international airport. The large 25,000-square-foot space is well-planned with ample parking options, helping reduce the typical stress of group outings. Free Wi-Fi throughout the venue enables groups to stay connected, share moments in real time, or even work remotely if needed. The venue’s multiple zones—from private meeting rooms to lively bars and dining areas—allow groups to spread out comfortably without feeling cramped. Staff efficiency in handling reservations, setup, and guest services means less waiting and more quality time spent together. These conveniences combine to create a seamless experience from arrival to departure, encouraging guests to keep coming back for new occasions and celebrations.
Why is Venue by 4M an ideal place for memorable social gatherings?
Ultimately, Venue by 4M’s combination of dynamic space, diverse amenities, exceptional food and drink, and attentive service create the perfect setting for memorable gatherings with friends and family. Its ability to blend a lively social atmosphere with cozy, welcoming corners means every group can tailor their experience to fit their mood and purpose. Whether you want to share a casual meal and cocktails, celebrate a milestone like a wedding or anniversary, host a team-building event, or simply catch up on a beautiful patio, Venue by 4M delivers an environment that fosters connection and celebration. The positive reviews emphasizing the professionalism of the staff, the quality of the offerings, and the overall vibe reinforce that this is a place people are excited to return to time and again. For those seeking a space where good times and good company naturally flourish, Venue by 4M is a remarkable choice that turns group meetups into cherished occasions.