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Wed-Sat. 7:00 p.m. - 2:00 a.m.
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I went for a birthday party for a fellow blogger and had a nice night. The music was great, and the drinks were strong. Can't complain. I must admit I missed it the first time, and drove right by, but then I made a U-ey and got it together.
The outside patio is great, and there is a loft space inside, so you can have personal parties upstairs if you so choose.
Came here after Repast. One thing this place has that Repast does not is a sign that lets you know it exists, that is always a plus.
It is a very small place, but I did like the seating upstairs. I want to get one of those HUGE leather chairs they had, I could sleep in that thing. I was surprised we were able to get seats up there on a Saturday though in such a small place.
The drink was way overpriced and weak. I am still not convinced there was alcohol in mine. The server was incredibly slow. Took awhile to get our drinks, but asking for the bill was a twenty minute experience. We finally got fed up and went to find her downstairs. She was behind the bar joking with the bartender. When she came out I asked her again for our check. She said she would get it as soon as she came back. A few minutes later she said "hey guys, I forgot, I have your check with me" from the upstairs. Nice. I told her to drop it down because I did not want to wait another ten minutes for her to come back downstairs. I was tempted to let it hit Gretchen in the head, but thought better and caught it. Needless to say, the tip was not very big.
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Really? Does everyone really think this place is that great?
The waitress was nothing short of a bitch and someone needed to give her a swift kick in the ass to get her moving at a reasonable speed. She lost a good portion of her tip, when we had asked for our check and didn't see her for the next 15 minutes. We grew tired of waiting and decided to seek her out, only to find her back behind the bar playing grab ass with the bartender.
Oh, and don't expect to get a good buzz here. $10 for a Berrytini that was an ounce of puree'd fruit with orange slices and berries to fill the rest of the tiny glass. Sure it tasted good, but don't all smoothies?
I hear there is an awesome DJ here on Wednesdays, so I may give it another try, but only for the DJ.
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I've had one drink at this place. I share a parking lot with it, and I just wanted to stop in. It was nice enough. My main concern is the hours they keep. I can't figure out when they're going to be open.
I'm going to give it another chance, though.
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Free parking + good food + friendly people + good music = a good time for me. I went to hear fellow Yelper Talib spin at Cru and ended up having a ball, despite the few customers and rolling solo. I perched myself at the bar and proceeded to have a fabulous foodie conversation with bartender Jim and chef Chris, wear we touched upon Top Chef and the Dekalb Famer's market. Chris even let me sample some Logan Mill grits (did not know how to-die-for grits could be) and I will definitely be back to experience them as part of the Cru breakfast--served at night. I found the menu impressive, selections like the veal sliders sounded satisfying with a twist. I found my Riesling to be a little pricey at $9.50, but I should know to ask first from now on.
This is not a place I would recommend if you need a crowd to have a good time. Take a honey or your entourage and enjoy the space, the music, the food and each other.
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I really, really really what to give CRU an amazing review but I just can't. The drinks are overpriced, the food is just OKAY, the service isn't too good. The only thing I truly enjoy about CRU is the DJ that is there on Weds. nights.
The last time I was there the upstairs was so dark I asked the waiter if he could increase the dim lighting just a little bit, he replied " I am not sure if I can, The owner likes it dark to create ambiance." ...... HUH!!!! WTF Eventually the lighting was increased a tad so that we can see our "bitty plates" (big plates with itty-bitty food). I guess I felt insulted, like increasing the light was a major inconvenience, although each of us spent well over $30 for drinks and "bitty plates".
I like hanging out there - but if I spend BIG money for itty-bitty drinks and food, I at least expect BIG service.
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I gotta do it...and while doing it I'll admit, that this isn't what I expected at all. Small and chic is how I'll describe it, very intimate is its atmosphere.
I will first go ahead and set the record straight, 'this is not a club!' Most places that have Lounge in the name at some point turns into a club, but I don't really see that happening here. I like the fact that you can sit and chat with a good drink and appetizer while still enjoying good music.
I had a nice time here. The staff was very friendly, the DJ was on point, and I enjoyed the company I was with, I loved the Peach Martini (Thanks for the recommendation).
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Cool without trying.....brings new meaning to lounging....you will lose track of time. Any and all of these phrases are a great fit for this place. I am trying not to completely gush, because I know my company had a lot to do with it. Cru initially presents as unassuming; it's off the beaten path, there are no signs directing you, they don't advertise (as far as I know), and there is no 'VIP' section. However, all of these qualities are intentional and key to the success of this place. All of this is enough to go to Cru, but here are some intangibles:
*heavy-handed bartender
*good & interesting selection of beer
*tasty appetizers
*easy parking
*good music
*reasonable pricing
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I found a hidden treasure in the midst of Midtown Atlanta. Cru is a nice spot with great atmosphere. Of course, when you go there with good people, you can't help but have a good time. The lighting is very dim with exposed brick walls and deep reds and browns. The decor is modern yet comfortable and encourages you to spend time getting to know whoever you are with.
I've been here a few times but, the last trip inspired this review. The bartender, Rachel, was cool, real talkative, and new how to pour a drink. As people started to trickle in, she didn't miss a beat. The DJ upstairs spinned some great tracks which swam there way into the conversation.
It's an out of the way spot, so you might miss it. But, that's what makes it cool. It's not crowded or pretentious.
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I have to join the chorus of those who find Cru sexy, intimate and cozy. We stopped in right before closing and there were only a few people there. We ordered drinks and headed upstairs. We were alone and just sat listening to the music (which was just right). We had a sexy good time:) It felt more like being at a friend's place than a club or bar. Like everyone has said this would be a perfect space for a private party. I look forward to going back here and hope my next experience is just as good.
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My friend Cookie had her birthday here as well as a launch party. I had no idea what to expect, but had a great time.
It's sort of like a loft with the bar downstairs and a lounge upstairs. She had a DJ spinning and old school racy ladies being projected on the upstairs wall.
From what I can remember ;) they serve a nice menu and the bartenders mix a mean mojito.
I really liked the vibe. Everyone was cool and just out to have a good time.
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It was hard to find this place and it's very small. The good thing about it being small though is if you have a small group of people you still feel like it's a party and not awkwardly huddled in some corner. Nice ambiance if you're looking for an upscale feel while you're drinking with some friends.
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Cru is a (seemingly) under appreciated lounge in Atlanta's Midtown-Poncey-Whatever area.
The converted 2-story loft is an impressive space...the artwork, the furniture, the lighting all work perfectly together to created a relaxed, unpretentious vibe that we all need.
The downstairs is occupied by the bar, a couple high tables and a booth and the upstairs holds more seating for groups - soft comfortable leather couches and chairs ideal for loungin. The space is small, but cozy (which ATLiens have proven they don't mind at the Harlem Bar). The small menu delivers consistent small plate items and the bar serves up good drinks for the patrons.
(Shameless plug coming in 4...,3...,2...,1....)
A new DJ has taken over on Thursday nights, his moniker is DJ Xzact. No, he's not me, just a good friend and business associate of mine. The theme is "Audio Relaxation Therapy: because the world is too crunk".
Every Thursday he'll be playing the hottest in Neo-soul (I hate that label), deephouse, soulful rock, trip-hop and tru-skool hip hop & instrumentals (in other words you may hear A Tribe Called Quest, Common or Mos Def...but no T-Payne, Soulja Boy...you get me).
No cover & parking is a breeze on weeknights.
Come on out! The sets usually start around 9pm
(ok, I'm back now...)
Truly this is a nice enviornment to spend an evening or as a stop over before or after hitting a show or the club.
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Not sure about all these negative reviews.. you will find NOWHERE in atlanta that matches the vibe in CRU. Definitely check out Thursday nights with world-class DJ Hellfyre (that's the night I've been hitting and it's class). But more than that, don't be fooled - the food here is EXCELLENT. The chicken and brie quesadillas are to die for. The super bartenders James and Heather are amazing and welcoming to all who walk through the door.
THis is the place you go when you don't want a club, but some chill music playing in the background, when you don't want a meat market bar, but want to be able to hang with old (and new) friends to have some excellent drinks by creative bartenders and enjoy your night out. Take a date here, meet up with your friends here, even bring your mom (I did). You will not be disappointed.
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This place is such a find.
It makes me sad just thinking about what it will be like once the word gets out. The lame Buckhead crowd discovers and devours almost every great new night spot that comes around. This lounge only accommodates a small number of hipsters, and seating is limited for a reason - who wants to hang out in a nasty, crowded bar?
I would much rather hang out in a posh 2-story converted loft space. There's mod furniture scattered around, fancy art on the walls, and glass after glass of fine wine, sake and liquor being poured. I'm not sure exactly what they had on the food end, but I did see a few people nibbling on something. Small plates would be my guess. Make sure if you stop in, you're dressed to impress and with a chill group of people you actually want to have conversation with. Lots of nooks and hideaway spaces to do exactly that - but if you want more of a "going out" mood, local DJs spin here frequently as well.
I will be back.
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My heart belongs to Ponce.
Not the Spanish explorer, but the street in Atlanta - for its unexpectedness.
Further strengthening my love for Ponce? My newfound crush on CRU Urban Lounge. It's tucked right off of Ponce down Glen Iris Drive in the Ponce Springs Lofts building. The space in intimate, with a couple tables downstairs and a bigger space with comfy leather chairs on the second floor.
They serve an appetizer menu, which includes hummus and spanakopita, which are nice accompaniments to coat your belly with a bit of padding before tossing back another glass of wine.
Definitely somewhere that I'd pick as a destination for its low-key sophistication; especially to grab a drink with friends before dinner or as a late night cocktail - I could easily spend a few hours surrounding myself with good friends, conversation, and a bottle of wine. There's a little area in front of the bar too, if you need to get a quick breath of fresh air.
Another cool thing about CRU for all you party people out there is that they rent the place out for private events. (Check out our event here: http://www.yelp.com/bi... ) We had about 50 people at ours, and it was the exact right amount of room - if you had an event you needed to rent a space for 30 - 50 people, this fits!
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I must say that I was not completely disappointed with Cru, just not overly impressed. We went for the 1/2 priced bottle of wine special. GREAT DEAL!! I did share some of the valet confusion as another guest. We pulled up to a valet sign that said Repast and noticed that all of the parking spaces were valet only. The valet was nice enough to give us a front row parking space, but it was confusing. Make sure if you are going upstairs and want table service that you let someone know. We would have been there for quite sometime if I had not realized that. When we were greeted by Heather she was extremely friendly and accommodating with wine suggestions and prompt service. As for the food...well it was not a complete loss but I must say that $11 for a steak quesadilla that was like chewing on a rubber salt lick is a bit much. It was totally inedible. I did love the margarita pizza though. We really enjoyed the relaxed lounge atmosphere. The DJ was pretty good and the music level was just right for a Wednesday night. Not too loud and a bit jazzy.
This spot definitely has potential This quaint urban lounge offers both a varied amount of libations and tasty appetizers.
I was taken back on how small it was on the inside though, after experiencing other bars/lounges in the city. Although, not really easy to find from the street, this place is a trendy cool place to hold a birthday party, or take a hot new date.
Not to mention, parking is kinda confusing since parking is clearly defined from the street. Nevertheless, they do offer complimentary valet parking.
The house music definitely helps put you in good mood, but it was definitely too loud at times, so be aware, you may find yourself doing the polite "smile and nod" thing with your party.
The bartenders were friendly and welcoming, but the drinks are kinda on the expensive side, my Maker's Mark and Coke was $8.50 which is kinda painful to the wallet. However, they are heavy handed which is always appreciated. What comes to mind is Yin and Yang for sure.
I'll definitely will check it out again when I'm in a chill mode.
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Ya'll are stupid.... strawberry mojitos make me wanna jump over and kiss the bartender. I'd sell my body for one, lucky they're only $10.
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Um, can I live here???
Seriously - I'll just make the bar area my kitchen - knock part of it out to make a larger living room. Take one of the bathrooms and add a shower/tub to it. Walk up the glowing steps and I'll make that whole area my bedroom and closet/dressing area. I'll even keep some of the furniture, the paint colors, and most of the light fixtures as is - it's that awesome!
I can't speak for what this place might be on a weekend night - it seemed Yelpers were the only ones there on a Wednesday. Who parties on Wednesday? Oh yeah, Yelpers do!
The atmosphere is swank - great decor. Good DJ (although a tad loud to hear your friends). Love the whole "urban loft" feel.
The drinks were good - nice selection of wine and liquor drinks, as well as a few creative cocktails. Kind of pricey by Ponce/Highlands standards (I mean, this *is* right around the corner from super cheap Local and El Bar). The food though was great. The hummus was my fave, incredibly good without being too bland or too flavorful. You wouldn't think it would be hard to make good hummus but apparently it is, as I've had some really bad hummus all over Atlanta lately (*ahem* I'm looking at you, TAP).
Enjoy this place while you can, I'm moving in next moth.
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What more can I say about this joint that hasn't been said by my fellow yelpers?!?!?!? not much!
I must agree with everyone as Cru certainly has a sophisticated feel to it. It's got all the makings of being a must hit hot spot in the city when you want to be around beautiful people and surroundings. Although I was here on a Wednesday, I can't speak on what the place is like on the weekends. We had appetizer's served for our gathering and if this is any idea on what the rest of the food is like, then I will certainly go back to check this place out.
It doesn't get the coveted 5 stars but that's only because of the location. It seems like it's a bit out there and away from all other night life spots that I could easily get to on a Saturday night. I would recommend starting at Cru and then bouncing. Other then that.... hot spot people!!!
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I had my birthday party here and it was absolutely delectable. I had been here before a couple of times and really dug the small, intimate atmosphere, it's a great spot for a party and they are never really too packed out. Wonderful raspberry mojitos, you must go now.
People thought this was:
Cru is definitely not a spot you'll find along any beaten path and the fact that it's tucked away only increases its appeal. Cru is a loungey sort of place. You'd do well to tuck yourself away in a candlelit corner with nothing more than a glass of wine and a confidant.
It's small enough to be intimate, while still big enough to give you some space. In other words, just right.
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I like this place. It's cozy and intimate. Cru reminds me of a loft-style bachelor's apartment with an awesome interior decorator. On the bottom level is the bar, with limited extra seating. Upstairs there are cute little cushioned enclaves, chic bar tables and a 'living room' sort of area with contemporary black furniture. The art on the walls really adds to this space looking like a comfortable living area. The music was great and because the location is sort of tucked away, it's very obviously a destination spot. Everyone there wants to be there and didn't just stumble in on their way to another bar.
I think my bacon wrapped scallops sounded a lot better than they actually were. While tasty, they were kind of cold and the bacon wasn't great. The chef had already gone for the night, so I didn't try any entrees.
The staff is nice and friendly and the drinks are great. It's the sort of place I'd like to be a regular customer.
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This is a very relaxing lounge to take a date or to hang out with friends. The set up is intimate so there is not a lot of room to move around. Cru Lounge is for those that want to go and have somewhere to sit and unwind. The food is a little price but there is no cover charge so it balances out. I will definitely go back so.
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Such a good time was had at Cru U with the Yelp Atlanta Elite crowd... plenty of mingling, flirting and drinking...
The bartenders at Cru were fast and friendly, the DJ was spinning urban pleasantries and the club itself was very shiek.
Good call, we should do this again!
PS - extra points to are award for pita humus olive scooping!
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I like Cru...it's a cute spot. Like some of the other reviews mentioned, nobody was there. I went there with my BFF and another friend for some pre-party drinks and food. We ordered the chips and salsa and I had the chocolate martini.
The service was really good but that's because we were the only ones in the spot. We were able to do some wine tasting for free which was cool. I will def. be back with some more of my friends for a chill, relaxed evening.
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I really like this place. It's small....intimate....with good lighting. I haven't eaten here...only had cocktails. Both bartenders I've met - JB and Melissa - are skilled and have great personality. The cocktail menu is inventive and expensive but not unusually so - between 8 and 10 a piece. The other plus at Cru is the music - on every visit I've made there, the music has been incredible.
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The few times I have been to Cru have been great. The drinks were good but the service was a little slow. Overall it was a great time. The DJ really did his thing. I am looking forward to doing something there for my B-day in 2009
Hubby and I wanted to stop by for a quick drink before heading on for the night. Parking is a pain. The Valet sign says Repast, so we asked the guy where can we park if we just want a drink in Cru. He sent us to the 2nd floor of the parking garage which of course was full. So we reverse turned in a cramped parking lot back down to the 1st floor only to discover we can't go out the way we came it. So out of the complex and round the block we went back to said Valet man to park our car. Was this a sign of things to come? Not at all, though be warned, this place is tiny! It's basically one of the apartment units that's been converted to a bar. Which in a way makes it feel like your round a friends place (if you had a friend with a fully stocked bar, bar staff and bored chef - more about him in a bit). We got there around 8pm on a Saturday night and the place was almost empty. We didn't care though. James (bar manager) made me a decent Mai Thai and hubby and I settled down in the booth to get merry. The chef pretty much begged us to place an order so that he had something to do. His recommendation of the chicken quesadilla was a huge success and helped us truly fall off our diet wagon. We drank a little more, chatted to James some more who said that Thursday is THE night. We'll try it then. A cute, 'little' neighborhood spot.
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Cru Urban Lounge reminds me of the lounge scene in NYC. A real lounge. Not a club and not a restaurant made club on certain nights of the week. The vibe has been consistent each time I've gone. I'd do a date here, cocktails with the girls or even alone to listen to the DJ and have a quick drink and unwind. My cousin hosted her boyfriend's 40th b-day event here a couple of months ago and it was the perfect size and layout for that type of gathering. Nice addition to the midtown area, but pay attention because you can drive right by it and miss out on a real chill experience.
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When traveling around Atlanta, it is so great when you go to a certain area, and for whatever reason you are convinced that there will be nothing to offer you, and you stumble upon something that is really nice. Cru Urban Lounge is that situation exactly. I went had a few drinks and had few laughs, with good music playing and comfortable chairs. And I think that everyone needs to know about this hidden gem. Trust me, you will not be disappointed.
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I had my last birthday party there in April and it was fabulous. Chetan, Robin and crew were a pleasure to work with. The service was good if a little slow to start (but I was at least an hour late to my own party, so hey...). My drinks were fab (some kind of tequila/or was it cachaca? passion fruit tini). My friends didn't like the wine, but that was probably my fault. I picked it and I'm no wine connoisseur. Small plates were good, but I think the menu has changed a bit since. It was a Friday night and the DJ was perfection: old school/jazzy/soulful/chill/danceable and a couple of surprises. It coulda been a bit cheaper for what we got, but I thought the venue was perfect. Why doesn't it get more crowded on Fridays? With that DJ and the cool bartenders, I'll def go back. I'd even take a date. They'd get another star if it got a good crowd.
Lets get something out in the open....I bartend at Cru, so I am a little biased. Having said that, I am delighted to hear that people are enjoying the spot and more importantly the service! Everything that has been said is true. We are a quaint little lounge that serves a mean drink! Yes are prices are high compared to some places, but they are STIFF and delicious! I love going to work for the relaxed vibe that sets the mood for friends to mingle or those on a date to enjoy intimate conversation. For those who want to host a party, it feels like you're in your very stylish and sexy loft amongst friends, only you don't need to learn how to make drinks or clean up after! As for the crowd, try Wednesday or Thursday nights when we have DJ's. I hope to see more Yelpers there!
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Nice little lounge spot. Well decorated with a cozy feeling to it. I would say its definitely a place to spend some intimate time with a significant other, or close friends. Bartenders are nice and they serve decent little finger foods.
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Definitely a cool hangout. It's like being a party at someone's uber cool loft. Very laid back feel and definitely on the rise. If you like the euro-lounge feel, check this place out.
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Neighborhood: Inman Park
Category: Tapas Bars
Neighborhood: Downtown
Category: American (New)
Atlanta, GA
Category: Coffee & Tea
Neighborhood: Downtown
Category: Lounges
Neighborhood: Inman Park
Category: Bars
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