When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
White Oak Tavern
Why White Oak Tavern is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
White Oak Tavern in Ellicott City stands out as a charming and inviting destination perfect for meeting up with friends. This family-owned establishment, run by local siblings, offers a spacious and comfortable dining environment, including a large outdoor patio that is dog-friendly and features a special menu for pets. The tavern’s rustic interior with extensive woodwork creates a warm atmosphere, complemented by a lively bar featuring 42 rotating craft beers and a variety of cocktails and mocktails made from seasonal ingredients. Known particularly for its award-winning White Oak Burger, which has been recognized repeatedly as the best burger in Howard County, the menu also showcases seasonal, scratch-made dishes using sustainable meats and fresh, local produce. Whether for a casual lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a fun weekend brunch with bottomless cocktails and live jazz music, White Oak Tavern offers something for everyone. Weekly live entertainment adds to the vibrant yet cozy ambiance, making it an excellent venue to enjoy flavorsome food and drinks while socializing in a relaxed setting.
Here's what people think of White Oak Tavern
As of recent, White Oak Tavern holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1483 reviews.
Customer feedback on White Oak Tavern highlights its excellent atmosphere and quality offerings. Many reviewers appreciated the attentive and accommodating service, noting servers who managed large groups efficiently and with friendly professionalism. Patrons frequently mention the appealing and well-prepared food, especially praising the flavorful dishes and house-made dressings. The award-winning White Oak Burger, in particular, draws repeated acclaim for its taste and quality. The bar receives positive comments for its wide selection of craft beers and imaginative cocktails, as well as a welcoming vibe for non-drinkers with diverse mocktail options. The dog-friendly patio is another favorite aspect, making the tavern inclusive for pet owners. However, some critiques mention minor inconsistencies, such as a slightly chewy Reuben sandwich on occasion and the importance of menu transparency for allergen information. Overall, reviewers express satisfaction with the combination of delicious food, relaxing atmosphere, and thoughtful service, recommending White Oak Tavern as a comfortable place for gatherings and casual hangouts.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Madhumita Sawant
The food was excellent, and the drinks strong. We ordered the bottomless brunch and they gave us all three types of mimosas to taste and then kept it coming! Raspberry Mint flavor was my favorite followed by the Blood orange. The vibe is amazing and the waitstaff was very friendly. I loved the service and ambience very much. I’ll definitely be back!
katharina Boser
Great Bolognese with pesto (tastes like meat but it's mushroom) love the drinks too. Staff was super attentive, even asking us if we preferred a different table knowing a large group was coming in. We loved the Bar vibe. And close to Joe's Pub where we had Tix for a show. We enjoyed the crunchy cabbage with cashews appetizer as well. Thanks for making it such an enjoyable evening.
Lucas Gonzalez
Not recommended for dinner! Our table got surrounded by a group who showed up around the bar and really killed the vibe. They didn’t do anything about it. Not a good date spot. The food is an afterthought, we ordered a few apps and entrees for 2 and none of them were good. In particular the fish dip was really cold and tasted like it was from the supermarket. The mushroom tart was exactly like something they serve on an economy plus flight. It might be a solid bar, but With so many good food options nearby, i’d avoid !
Samantha Nottingham
We sat at the bar on a drizzly Sunday afternoon. No issues getting a seat. It’s beautiful inside, but not too fancy. We came in after my husband ran the NYC Half so we were very casual! They have an unlimited Bloody Mary brunch option (and other brunch drinks). We didn’t indulge but I had one Bloody and it was average. Where they excel is with the menu. Everything looks incredible! The items are unique and represent a real gastro pub feel. We settled on the French Toast and BLAT. WOW! The presentation was immaculate and the food was even better. The French toast had a berry compote as well as fresh berries. The bread was soft and fluffy. Cooked perfectly. The BLAT was the perfect size (not a huge sandwich) and delicious. BTW - the side of fries were so good! Highly recommend this restaurant if you find yourself in the NYU area.
Juan King
This restaurant feels welcoming. The staff delivered attention distinctively impressive. The food comes in ample portions, is well-prepared, and tastes excellent. The place doesn't boast large dimensions but stays neat and comfortable with city styling. This restaurant will please your palate.
How to reach White Oak Tavern
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Why White Oak Tavern may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at White Oak Tavern with your friends?
When it comes to gathering with friends or family, White Oak Tavern offers an inviting atmosphere that feels just right for socializing and celebration. Located in the vibrant Greenwich Village, this spacious American tavern is more than just a place to eat; it’s a warm, rustic retreat where good food, drinks, and company come together effortlessly. The interior boasts a charming rustic décor with plenty of wood elements that give it an old-world appeal, making guests feel instantly at ease. Whether you are meeting up for a casual brunch, a lively dinner, or simply drinks, the large U-shaped bar with an impressive selection of whiskies and craft beers is perfect for sparking lively conversations. Moreover, the tavern is well-known for its accommodating staff who ensure that even big groups feel comfortable and well attended to, managing separate checks and seating arrangements with ease. This blend of great food, diverse drink options, ample space, and a welcoming environment makes White Oak Tavern an ideal spot to rally your friends and create memorable moments together.
What activities can you enjoy at White Oak Tavern for group meetups?
White Oak Tavern is designed to cater to groups looking for a variety of experiences wrapped in one venue. Whether your gathering is centered around a meal, drinks, or entertainment, this tavern offers multiple options that satisfy different tastes and occasions. Starting with food, the menu features classic American fare with seasonal specials crafted from fresh, quality ingredients. The offerings include generous portions conducive to sharing, such as a highly recommended cheese board and expertly prepared house dressings and sauces. This culinary versatility ensures that everyone in the group finds something appealing, including options that cater to vegan and gluten-free diets. On the drinks front, the tavern has a notable craft beer selection, an extensive whiskey collection, and creative cocktails that cater to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. The bar area encourages communal mingling, making it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy drinks while catching up. For those who prefer the outdoors, White Oak Tavern features a large, pet-friendly patio space ideal for summertime gatherings or those who enjoy dining in fresh air while maintaining the privacy and comfort of a group setting. Together, these activities create an engaging and lively atmosphere suited for both laid-back and celebratory group meetups.
Why is White Oak Tavern perfect for hosting large groups and celebrations?
One of White Oak Tavern’s standout features is its ability to comfortably host large parties without guests feeling cramped or overlooked. The restaurant layout is spacious, allowing groups to spread out and engage in conversation at a normal volume without disturbance. This is an important consideration for anyone planning a meetup focused on social interaction where being able to talk freely enhances the experience. The staff excels in providing friendly and attentive service even during busy periods, accommodating large groups seamlessly, managing requests for adjacent tables, and handling separate checks efficiently. This level of service is a rare find and greatly enhances the convenience and enjoyment of hosting events here. The tavern regularly hosts live entertainment, adding a fun communal element that can elevate celebrations like retirements, birthdays, or casual reunions. Additionally, its location in Greenwich Village makes it easily accessible for local residents and visitors alike, while plentiful nearby parking options ease the logistics of meeting up. For these reasons, White Oak Tavern stands out as a trusted venue for group celebrations and social events, combining atmosphere, service, and food that keep everyone happy.
What kind of food and drink experience does White Oak Tavern offer for groups?
The culinary experience at White Oak Tavern is a big draw for groups looking to share a hearty and satisfying meal. The menu focuses on all-American classics with a twist, featuring dishes prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients that reflect care and quality. Guests have praised items like the Tavern Reuben, thick rye bread, and special house-made dressings that add unique flavors. The presentation is appealing and the portions are generous, ideal for sharing and group tasting. Beyond the food, the beverage program is especially notable. The extensive craft beer selection offers variety, including well-regarded German pilsners, while the cocktail menu is broad and inventive, pleasing a variety of preferences. Whiskey lovers also have an impressive range to explore, with the bar’s collection being a highlight of the tavern’s rustic charm. For non-alcoholic options, mocktails ensure everyone in the group is included in the festive spirit. Whether it’s a relaxed brunch with chocolate muffins and banana bread or a lively dinner paired with cocktails, White Oak Tavern’s food and drink offerings provide a crowd-pleasing experience that complements any group gathering.
How does the atmosphere and service at White Oak Tavern enhance group meetups?
Atmosphere and service are two critical factors when choosing a spot for friends or family to gather, and White Oak Tavern excels in both. The décor conjures a sense of timeless rustic comfort, with wooden beams and shelves lined with nostalgic objects creating a cozy environment that transports visitors to a classic American tavern setting. This ambience is both laid-back and stylish, making it suitable for casual catch-ups or special occasions. The tavern is lively but not loud, striking a balance where conversation flows easily, an essential element for meaningful time together. Service at White Oak Tavern is highly recommended by patrons for being attentive without intrusive, friendly, and accommodating to the specific needs of large groups. From arranging seating to timely food delivery and managing individual requests, the staff fosters a welcoming environment that makes guests feel valued and cared for. This thoughtful service combined with the inviting atmosphere ensures that group meetups here are smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
What makes White Oak Tavern’s location convenient for group gatherings?
Situated in the heart of Greenwich Village, White Oak Tavern benefits from a prime location that helps make group gatherings hassle-free. Greenwich Village is a lively neighborhood known for its rich cultural history and vibrant social scene, offering plenty of nearby amenities and attractions that can complement a meetup at the tavern. Its proximity to NYU and other local landmarks also means easy access for friends coming from various parts of the city. The tavern itself is located on Waverly Place, a well-known street for dining and nightlife, adding to the overall experience of a night out or weekend brunch with friends. Additionally, the area offers plentiful parking options, a valuable convenience in busy NYC neighborhoods. This accessibility encourages punctual arrival and stress-free departures, which is often a big consideration when coordinating groups. All these factors—the vibrant neighborhood, central location, and parking ease—converge to make White Oak Tavern a smart choice for social gatherings, simplifying logistics so everyone can focus on fun and connection.
Why do guests return frequently to White Oak Tavern with their groups?
The loyalty of White Oak Tavern’s clientele speaks volumes about its success as a group-friendly venue. Patrons consistently highlight the combination of great food, well-curated drink choices, accommodating service, and comfortable environment as reasons they return. Whether hosting a retirement party or an informal get-together, guests appreciate how seamlessly large groups are managed without compromising quality or enjoyment. The seasonal specials and rotating menu offerings keep the experience fresh and encourage repeat visits to try new dishes alongside trusted favorites. Moreover, the tavern’s commitment to dietary inclusiveness with vegan and gluten-free options shows thoughtfulness in catering to diverse groups. The festive periodic live entertainment adds an additional draw, creating lively communal experiences that bond friends over music and celebration. These elements create a sense of belonging and satisfaction that brings people back time and again, reinforcing White Oak Tavern as a beloved destination for friends and families to rally around food, drink, and shared memories.