When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Vivace
Why Vivace is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Vivace is a versatile establishment that offers two distinct experiences making it a popular destination for social gatherings. First, as a restaurant with a 4.4-star rating based on over 1,000 reviews, Vivace provides a vibrant atmosphere perfect for meeting friends. Guests are drawn to Vivace for its quality food and welcoming environment where the friendly staff and lively service create an enjoyable dining experience. The blend of good management and an engaging team makes it a great place for socializing. In addition to its culinary appeal, Vivace also offers highly regarded microneedling and skin rejuvenation treatments that have drawn praise for their effectiveness. Clients report noticeable improvements in skin texture, reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, and overall skin tightening with treatments performed by experienced aestheticians. These services make Vivace not only a spot for dining but also a destination for beauty and self-care. Whether gathering for a delicious meal or a rejuvenating skin treatment, Vivace stands out as a welcoming establishment with positive social and wellness experiences.
Here's what people think of Vivace
As of recent, Vivace holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1014 reviews.
User reviews about Vivace present a mixed but generally positive picture. Many customers praise the establishment for its friendly staff, great service, and the quality of the treatments provided. Positive reviews especially highlight the expertise of the aestheticians, noting significant improvements in skin appearance, pain-free and comfortable procedures, and visible results even after one session. The restaurant side is appreciated for its engaging team and lively atmosphere, making it a fun place to work and visit. However, some negative feedback from former employees points to internal challenges such as demanding work conditions and management issues, which may affect the work environment but less so the customer experience. Despite some critiques about compensation and work-life balance among staff, customer reviews predominantly reflect satisfaction with their visits, recommending Vivace as a trustworthy place for both dining and skin therapies. Overall, Vivace's reviews suggest a strong reputation for quality service and experiences that encourage repeat visits and referrals.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mary Jean Mckoy
the service was great. it was a little noisy. but the place was packed. the food was mostly good. I had the pan seared chicken thighs with the gnocchi and salad. the thighs were really good. perfectly seasoned and seared perfectly. did not care for gnocchi and salad was not very tasty. the dressing used was a too sweet for me. there were 6 in our party. all the plates looked good and everyone said there meal was tasty. if you go here you have to try the mango sorbet. absolutely delicious 😋
Mohammed Al Saffar
My dining experience at Vivace was one of the most disappointing meals I’ve had at an Italian restaurant, especially given its pricing. The issues began immediately with cold, stale bread and unappetizing spreads—hardly an inviting start. The ravioli were undercooked and bland, the crispy chicken was greasy and overcooked, and the gnocchi were rubbery and underseasoned. My steak ordered medium, arrived well-done, dry, and salty. Even the sides missed the mark—the caprese salad had unripe, mealy tomatoes, and the mushrooms tasted sour and cooked long time ago. The cocktails were another letdown: watered-down, lacking flavor, and—most shockingly—garnished with brown, wilted mint that had clearly oxidized. If a restaurant can’t even manage fresh garnishes, it calls into question their attention to detail across the board. For the prices charged, Vivace delivered an unacceptable level of quality. Between the poorly executed dishes, stale ingredients, and careless drink preparation, I cannot recommend this restaurant in its current state.
Li Basilio
The Brussels sprouts were really delicious, nice portion for two people. I think it's now one of our favs. Service was great & the ambiance was really nice and chill. The food portion was a little smaller than expected but the taste was great. There’s plenty of free parking since there’s other businesses around. Our waiter was really knowledgeable and made sure we were well taken care of. We will definitely be returning!
Tara Timblin
First experience at Vivace. We went for lunch and enjoyed it very much. Pizza and pasta were delicious. The kitchen even agreed to make us a dinner item, the burrata, which was yummy! They have a very extensive wine list. I would highly recommend.
Laura
Great location in North Hills, easy parking, cool atmosphere, and plenty of seating for bigger groups! The ricotta gnocchi was delicious- the added chicken was a little dry, but the tiramisu was perfect for celebrating a friends’ bday! Would definitely go back to try other dishes.
How to reach Vivace
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Website: None
Why Vivace may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Vivace with your friends?
Choosing Vivace for a gathering with friends is an excellent decision for several compelling reasons. First, Vivace combines the warmth of authentic Italian cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere that naturally encourages connection and celebration. Whether you're catching up after a long time or simply enjoying a weekend outing, Vivace's ambiance creates a perfect backdrop for memorable moments. The restaurant has earned a strong reputation for quality, reflected in its solid 4.4-star rating from over a thousand reviews, highlighting its consistent delivery of delicious food and attentive service across locations. Beyond just dining, the experience at Vivace is designed to foster camaraderie — from sharing freshly baked bread as soon as you sit down to the thoughtfully crafted menu that offers something for every palate. The blend of a cozy yet lively environment makes it an ideal venue for groups looking to relax, enjoy good conversation, and savor great dishes together. Its spacious seating arrangements and charming dining rooms accommodate groups comfortably, ensuring that friends won't feel cramped or rushed during their visit. These features collectively make Vivace not just a meal destination but a social hub perfect for meetups with family or friends.
What activities and group experiences does Vivace offer?
Vivace is primarily known for its exceptional dining experience, which is the core of its group activities. Guests can indulge in authentic Italian dishes prepared by skilled chefs who prioritize quality and seasonal ingredients. The menu is rich and diverse, featuring hand-made pastas, fresh seafood, locally sourced vegetables, and classic Italian antipasti ideal for sharing. This sharing style naturally encourages social interaction and enhances the group dining experience. Patrons frequently mention the complimentary bread service — a delightful starter that sets a friendly tone as everyone awaits their meals. Besides the traditional indoor seating, Vivace offers an inviting outdoor patio, which is ideal for group gatherings, especially on pleasant evenings. This outdoor option provides a relaxed, scenic setting where friends can enjoy fresh air along with their meal, further enhancing the social atmosphere.
Moreover, Vivace pays careful attention to accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences, allowing groups with mixed tastes or needs to feel included and cared for. The staff's attentiveness is often praised in reviews for being both professional and friendly, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for all guests. For celebrations such as birthdays or special occasions, Vivace adds a personal touch by offering complimentary desserts and thoughtful service gestures, which elevate the event and make group meetups even more memorable. The combination of food quality, atmosphere, and service turns a simple meal into an engaging group event.
Why is Vivace perfect for a group meetup?
Vivace excels as a perfect venue for group meetups due to several practical and experiential factors. The restaurant’s size and layout are designed to accommodate groups comfortably, whether a small gathering of close friends or a larger family event. Tables can be arranged to foster conversation, and the pace of service typically supports relaxed, unhurried meals—important when catching up or celebrating. The variety on the menu caters to different tastes and dietary preferences, so everyone in a group can find dishes that please them, from vegetarian pastas to rich seafood offerings. This inclusivity is crucial for group meals, preventing the usual frustration of limited options.
Besides the culinary appeal, the ambiance at Vivace is both elegant and inviting, blending warm lighting and tasteful decor that create a convivial yet intimate setting. Many diners have appreciated the views offered from the dining rooms and outdoor patio, which provide a beautiful backdrop that can make a gathering feel even more special. The attentive but unobtrusive staff adds to the positive group experience, skilled at managing the needs of multiple guests while maintaining a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For special occasions, Vivace’s ability to offer complimentary desserts or personalize service enhances the group vibe, making each event feel unique.
In addition, Vivace’s reputation and customer ratings underscore its reliability for group outings. With a 4.4 rating from over a thousand reviews, the restaurant strikes a balance of quality, consistency, and atmosphere that many diners find reassuring when planning group events. Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a milestone celebration, Vivace presents itself as a trusted venue to host meaningful gatherings.
What kind of food and drinks can groups expect at Vivace?
At Vivace, groups can expect authentic Italian cuisine made from high-quality ingredients, combining traditional recipes with inspired local touches. The menu features an impressive selection of antipasti, pastas, seafood dishes, and main courses crafted from seasonal and locally sourced items alongside premium Italian imports. This includes specialties like house-made pasta, fresh goat cheese from local farms, the finest Italian cheeses and olive oils, and San Marzano tomatoes that bring authentic regional flavor. The result is a menu that balances familiar comfort foods with gourmet quality, ensuring every dish is flavorful and thoughtfully prepared.
For groups, this culinary diversity means catering to a wide range of preferences, including vegetarian-friendly options and dishes with rich, hearty flavors. Sharing plates such as seafood-stuffed mushrooms or pear and blue cheese salads are ideal for tasting multiple flavors as a group, sparking enjoyable discussions about favorite dishes. Entrees like pork parmesan and seafood stew receive frequent praise for generous portions and exquisite taste. Complementing the food, Vivace offers a curated wine list that pairs beautifully with Italian cuisine, allowing groups to toast to good times with carefully selected reds, whites, and sparkling options.
A notable part of the food experience is the complimentary and staff-recommended desserts, such as creme brûlée or Italian-style custards, which are often appreciated as a special treat that rounds out the meal. The overall culinary experience at Vivace blends tradition, innovation, and quality, designed to satisfy groups seeking an authentic taste of Italy in an inviting setting.
What makes Vivace’s ambiance and location ideal for gatherings?
Vivace benefits from an ambiance that enriches the group dining experience by merging comfortable elegance with captivating views. Many patrons highlight the restaurant’s picture windows that overlook cityscape or mountain views, particularly at sunset, making it a picturesque locale for social occasions. Both indoor and outdoor seating areas are tastefully designed to combine warm lighting, comfortable furnishings, and tasteful decor that together create a convivial yet intimate environment. This atmosphere helps groups relax and engage, making the occasion feel special without being overly formal.
The outdoor patio is especially popular for groups who enjoy fresh air and scenic vistas, ideal for warm evenings or mild weather, enhancing the dining experience by offering a memorable setting. Indoors, the layout accommodates group dynamics with flexible seating arrangements that support lively conversation and shared meals.
In terms of location, Vivace’s position in scenic foothills or vibrant urban neighborhoods (depending on which branch you visit) makes it accessible while providing a retreat-like feel. This combination of accessibility and seclusion is perfect for groups wanting to escape routine and enjoy each other’s company in a beautiful setting. The restaurant’s proximity to local landmarks and parking convenience also eases group logistics, avoiding common stressors associated with meeting venues.
Together, the ambiance and location of Vivace help create a backdrop perfect for group gatherings, from casual meetups to special celebrations.
How does Vivace accommodate groups with dietary preferences and special occasions?
Vivace demonstrates a strong commitment to accommodating guests with dietary preferences and special needs, an essential aspect when hosting groups with diverse requirements. The kitchen takes great care in handling dietary restrictions such as vegetarianism, gluten sensitivity, and other allergies, using fresh, local ingredients and offering clear menu options suitable for various diets. While they acknowledge the potential for cross-contact in the kitchen, they strive to serve guests safely and attentively, providing guidance on suitable dishes.
This attention to detail helps groups plan meals confidently without compromising flavor or experience. Diners report that servers are knowledgeable and willing to assist in customizing orders, ensuring everyone can partake comfortably.
For special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, Vivace adds personal touches that make group events memorable. Free desserts, small celebratory gestures like candles on birthday treats, and attentive service all contribute to a festive atmosphere. These details reveal Vivace’s dedication to creating meaningful experiences beyond just food, catering to the emotional and social aspects of group gatherings.
Overall, Vivace’s sensitivity to dietary needs and celebrations increases its appeal as a venue for hosting friends and family, giving groups peace of mind and a sense of being genuinely valued.
With its blend of authentic Italian cuisine, scenic ambiance, accommodating service, and thoughtful touches for groups, Vivace establishes itself as an outstanding setting for meetups with friends and family. Whether sharing multi-course meals, toasting on the outdoor patio, or marking special milestones, this restaurant offers a complete package that fosters connection and enjoyment, making it a top choice for social gatherings.