The Universal Joint in Decatur is one of those rare neighborhood spots that instantly makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. From the moment we walked in, the vibe was relaxed, welcoming, and unpretentious--exactly what you want when you're looking to settle in and enjoy yourself. A huge part of that experience was our waitress, Carsen. She was incredibly personable, warm, and genuinely friendly without ever feeling forced. Her service was excellent from start to finish--attentive, knowledgeable, and perfectly timed. She made us feel completely at home, like we were being hosted by a friend rather than waited on at a restaurant. Honestly, her energy was contagious. We ended up ordering a third round of drinks purely because she was so darn friendly and fun to talk with. The Universal Joint nails that balance of great service and laid-back comfort, which is harder to find than it should be. Between the welcoming atmosphere and Carsen's standout service, it's easy to say this won't be our last visit. We'll definitely be back--and hopefully sitting in her section again. read more

First experience : ordered 2 meals $40 worth of carry out, they left out an order of fries, it's fine one serving of fries was enough for two people. One bite in, and I noticed a bug in the toppings, immediately I was disgusted, wondering if I had already consumed one..... it happens so I took pics and called the restaurant. Sent the manager pics and he took accountability and text me back offering me a refund and a $40 credit for my next visit . Fast fwd.... 2 weeks we were in the area and decided let's give it another try and cash in our credit and have drinks as well. Our experience that I shared with the manager I was initially in contact with is below. I'm posting because of the lack of acknowledgement and the bar tender was extremely nasty for absolutely no reason. Hi Sawyer, I wanted to let you know about our experience today. We stopped by the restaurant to use the gift card and enjoy a few drinks, but unfortunately things went wrong right away. When we walked in, no one greeted us or acknowledged us--we genuinely couldn't tell who worked there. We eventually sat ourselves, and when Jen came over, I let her know we were there to use a gift card you had left. From that point on, her demeanor noticeably changed. She was short, dismissive, and her body language made it clear we were an inconvenience. I provided both my name and my husband's name to help locate the gift card, but her response--or lack of one--made us feel unwelcome, and we decided it was best to leave. I appreciate you offering the opportunity for a good experience at UJ. The previous to-go order didn't impact my overall impression, but today's interaction with Jen unfortunately did. No need to worry about the gift card. read more

First of all, they have trivia on Wednesdays. If that's your jam, then this is the place. UJ is definitely giving neighborhood joint, which we love. Service was quite slow but only because they were full of trivia attendees and their kitchen was backed up. I ordered a California burger cooked medium. This burger was quite delicious but needed a little bit of salt. It was cooked to perfection and juicy. It was topped with grilled onions, bacon, avocado and BBQ sauce and was super messy to eat. The sweet potato fries were good but wish were crispier. Overall, solid spot for a weeknight dinner. read more

Universal Joint - California Burger - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

I'm wild about this joint! I love the energy here and the intimate lay out of the restaurant. It can get pretty busy here and loud, the good loud sounds of laughter that comes along with good times with friends and family. I've visited here around three times over the past few weeks and each time being a delight. I ordered and fell in love with the Arugula and Mushroom Quesadillas, all the flavors mesh together to form this deliciousness. This is what I'll be ordering every time I visit here. read more

I've been here before and if you love Break Pad in East Point, you'll love Universal Joint. It's got a cozy, neighborhood bar feel where you seat yourself. There's an ample sized patio outside to view the street and square across from the restaurant. We had a very pleasant server who helped us with a mocktail order, the menu and regularly checked in. I ordered the Arugula salad and Spicy Eggrolls. The eggrolls are not pictured because they came later but very tasty. It didn't look like the online pictures but was decent. The salad was very tasty and next time I'll add protein. Recommend going with groups, to watch a game or family meal. Casual and good prices in Downtown Decatur. read more

Universal Joint - Arugula Salad with Zesty Lemon Vinaigrette dressing - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

Patio is so nice & inviting, but my family decided sit inside- little room to the side is not very inviting, but where we sat. Main bar area is nicer & more friendly, not as secluded. Server was the best. He was so funny & on the ball!! Got Lemon Pepper Wings, super crispy but lots of salt. Ranch needs more seasoning, not much flavor. Salad great, but again the ranch... I think the others enjoyed their meals, no complaints. Table of 4 with a split tab & only 1 beer was under $40 plus tip. Here are pics to enjoy read more

Universal Joint - Corner of Oakview & E Lake - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

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I moved to Georgia in 2009 and this has been my favorite lunch spot in Decatur. I love the food and the service. I also love to sit outside on nice warm days. I stopped going because now the dog owners have taken over. These are not the cute little small dogs they're the gigantic ones with the fur flying everywhere all in your food. I'm mad and upset because everyone has an emotional support animal and think they have to bring it to eat with them too! Most people hate eating around dogs!! I will never go back because the dog hair that flew in my good salad was unforgivable and I was disgusted. There need to be special restaurants for dog owners and their pets! read more

I visited on a Friday afternoon and couldn't have asked for a better experience. A live band set the tone with great music, and the place was packed with energy. The weather was unusually sunny and beautiful for November 14 in Georgia, which added to the charm of the whole scene. Kids were walking home and playing nearby, creating a warm, community feel that made the atmosphere even more inviting. I ordered the tilapia fish tacos, and they were good. Ava was exceptionally good. read more

Dinner at UJ was good. Burgers, Tacos, Salads and Soups to choose from. I decided to get the Patty Melt with arugula salad. Came out rather quickly, first thing I noticed was the salad was small, but tasted good with their Lemon Vinaigrette. Came with pecans & feta. The patty melt was on a swirled rye bread made traditionally with grilled onions, & Swiss cheese. The burger filled the bread which was great to see. Cooked to a perfect medium. They have a full bar with craft beer. Parking is on the street but was easily found at 8pm. read more

Universal Joint - Patty Melt & Arugula salad with Lemon Vinaigrette - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

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We are all a little weird and life's a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love. -Dr. Seuss Too warm today to sit outside, we were at the bar where we were well served. A couple of cold beers went down nicely while we enjoyed the "show." Burger was very good but I should have added chesse. Fries were crispy. [Review 20040 overall - 640 in Georgia - 1015 of 2023.] read more

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Great day to eat inside or outside. Loved the chill vibe of the restaurant, not pretentious. I like the music variety, diverse and fun. Quashaun, our server was amazing! Although all of the restaurants were crowded, there was no wait and the service was quick. My husband's burger and fries were delish. I had the salmon sandwich. Although it was good, it could have used just a little more seasoning or maybe they forgot it, Still a 5 star casual, friendly, chill time. read more

Universal Joint - Salmon sandwich w SIDE ARUGULA SALAD - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

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The area is lovely in the city of Decatur and gives a relaxing vibe. Except for the homeless man walking up begging for money while you're eating and no one asking him to stop. Even when you tell him no he keeps going. Fries were burnt, the loaded fries were hard and horrible, table was very sticky and there's no way they even attempt to keep the bugs out. Ordered no onions for allergy purposes and the food came with onions and scallions. Definitely will not return. Should've went to the many restaurants that I frequent in that area but we wanted to give them a try. read more

Universal Joint - Burned fries - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

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Solid 3 Nice patio and the food was ok. We ordered the peri peri nachos, and they were ok, but it was a small portion of nachos for the price. Not the big plate of nachos you normally get as an appetizer. I saw a Paloma on the menu, so I ordered it. Big mistake. It tasted like if college me tried to make a cocktail. A big poor of cheap tequila and some grapefruit juice. Not a cocktail as described on the menu. Next time I'll stick to a beer. read more

I sat a table alone for 15 minutes before a server came to bring a menu or greet me. It wasn't extremely busy and 2 different servers walked past me and didn't sat a word or look in my direction. read more

The outdoor area is fantastic; faces the street, has an awesome breeze with a combination of high and low tables. Decent beer menu - a little bit of something for everybody. I wasn't too impressed with the food. I would stick to beer snacks. The kid had the Philly cheesesteak quesadilla (special menu item). It was what it was. I had the beef brisket taco, something was a little weird in it and something was missing. I don't think the flavor combination matched my palate . The beer was served a little warm. It could've been better ... read more

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Wow... my wife hasn't been here in years and I haven't ever been here. So glad she picked this spot. This may have been the best food I have eaten @ a restaurant. The burger was amazing and the turkey pita club was the best I've ever tasted. Sidney was absolutely the best with the service. Let's not leave out the bar area. Super Atlanta vibe. I will for sure be back multiple times from here on out! read more

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We had initially gone to a place up the street but their were closing so they directed us here instead. Came here for a quick round of drinks on a Sunday with friends. There were plenty of beers to pick from so I didn't pay much mind to if there was also a full bar. They were still serving food as I saw people eating at 10 pm. Staff was friendly and it seems to be a local spot people check out. Very casual and cheap place to hangout so I wouldn't mind coming again. read more

I don't like leaving negative reviews but sometime they are warranted. I wish I could comment on the food or beverages however after about 30 minutes of waiting I ended up leaving and spent my money elsewhere. 2 tables sat down, ordered and received beverages while I still waited for a canned beverage. Someone even got a Guinness served while I was still waiting. That should say enough. Staff needs to step it up! read more

Probably the best thing about this place is the patio on a nice day. My friend and I came in around 1:30 on Memorial Day. It was great sitting outside and our table had an umbrella for good sun coverage. Our server was nice and drinks came out in a reasonable time frame. The food took absolutely forever. I finally had to flag her down to ask if she could check on it. I had the French dip sandwich which was not bad. The "elote" was a disgrace. Canned corn with some mayo squirted on it. The skinny Margarita tasted like pure soda water, more like a hard seltzer. If I came back to enjoy the patio I'd probably only order a beer and just enjoy the scenery. read more

We have been to U-Joint for years especially during lockdown to keep them in business. We dealt with all kinds of shenanigans (incl. uncooked food, missing sides, missing sauces, upcharge for CC use, etc.). Now you can't order through the website, the phone goes directly to voicemail (intentionally) and when I walked in they wouldn't take take-out orders. read more

Universal Joint is, in my opinion, the best burger place in Decatur. Dissenters may say it's Brick Store Pub, but I've found that U-Joint burgers taste the exact same for $4-5 cheaper and they both have an equally awesome array of burgers and nice staff. While restaurants on the square are quickly turning expensive and somewhat pretentious in their staffing and decor, U-Joint is an authentically Decatur joint that features regulars like Decatur High School teachers grabbing a Friday night beer, local Oakhurst'ean families who walked over, and folks like me who love downtown Oakhurst and want an excuse to drive over. I give U-Joint a 4 star instead of 5 because there is definitely better tasting pub food elsewhere in Atlanta, but U-Joint is top notch if you don't want to drive 30 minutes into Midtown. read more

Had the worst service tonight at this location. The waitress had a nasty attitude from the minute we entered the establishment. I will NEVER be back! read more

A welcoming feeling to a Cheers Like neighborhood bar. Feel comfortable cheering out loud for the Home Team read more

I wish I didn't have to write this review. We went upon a recommendation from someone and it was extremely disappointing, so much so we had to get up and walk out. We ordered two drinks, one beer was almost expired and the draft beer had a bad smell and was flat. Our waitress was way over worked and chaotic and it took 15 min to get water (from the hostess not even our server) and we never even talked to our server after 20 min and no one came back after giving us our waters and drinks. We ended up paying for the two drinks and leaving. Everyone else seamed to be having a good time so I hope this is a fluke but our experience was not good. Hopefully if we ever come back it will be different. read more

Absolutely terrible service! Don't go here! I actually left, and never received food at all....beware!

Visiting from Texas and this was the Worst service ever... my waitress drop off my beer and I never saw her again. 45 min later I had to ask another waiter if he could help me out by ordering some food. Sucks to spend your money in a place that doesn't have good customer service. Btw she never came back to apologize. Gave me a 50 percent discount to make up for it. Really don't need a handout just some good f'n service. Stay away from this place!!!!! read more

This place is in a nice area. Doesn't have its own parking .. need to find something on the street but parking isn't too bad over here. Walking in the place was set up real nice seems pretty clean and service was pretty good. The food however wasn't great overall, we started with the hummus which was great. We had the fish and chips and the Philly both meals weee mediocre at best. I'd come back to drink at the bar... real nice bar .. we had some good wine. But I'll eat before I come. read more

Universal Joint - Hummus - American Near Me - Decatur, Georgia

Oh my! I really like the atmosphere at this place on a Saturday evening ..... good vibes, good drinks, great service ( we had the " call me an uber" ) but the menu seriously need a lot of work. We ordered chips and queso and it was a hard NO for me, we ended up sending it back because the chips tasted burnt. So we ordered the universal joint fries and they were much better, but not even great. We absolutely love Sylvia!!! She was truly a sweetheart (hearts). She gave us amazing service and suggested the burgers and the cuban sandwich we ordered. Really good sandwiches, but not great to choose as far as side items. Sprouts and grapes were in everything. We order the fried Brussel sprouts and they were burnt also, so its an extra hard No for me on those. I guess its pretty safe to say that we will be trying out some other places before returning here again. read more

The food is very good with pub fare just a part of it- many other choices. I had the UJoint burger which had just the right amount of jalapeños. Their onion rings are fantastic! The skinny margarita was just as advertised, non of that horrible sweet and sour mix that is always overused. read more

Not much not to like! Great drinks - thank you Paloma. Had the patty melt - awesome. With tots - yes! I forget what friend ordered but she liked it. Too cold for the patio but great patio. Service was awesome. Really like this place! read more

It is a pub and quite rustic, has a nice patio with a nice menu selection. Mark the Manager and staff are there to please.

Great consistent food, service with a smile and a great neighborhood feel. One of top go to places!

Love the location but the service is consistently terrible. Slow to acknowledge your table -- multiple visits where we sit for 10-15 minutes before the first server stops by. Once waters/drink order is in, it's another 10-15 minutes before they return to order. read more

They have the rooted, local thing down pretty well. Property values must be up in Oakhurst because there was a lot of golf playing on big screens. It's good, but I would liked it more if it were my neighborhood place. Had a bratwurst and a Guinness, both fine. Lots of can't-mess-it-up bar food that my wife and kids seemed to enjoy. The memorabilia on the walls is old-timey and plausible-looking, as if it could have been acquired properly from customers instead of from a corporate design shop. read more

OMFG, where to start. It took ages to get someone to acknowledge that we were there. Then once seated and served the service was Horrible. The server and person bringing out the food acted like we're were bothering them with simple requests. Avoid at all costs. read more

This is a great neighborhood joint, with good eats and drinks. I've been patronizing this place for many years. The last time I had dinner there, though, I was very disappointed. First, I was charged $8.90 for what seems like a regular, not-special pint of beer. This seemed a little gougy especially since the beer menu doesn't show prices. Second, when the bill came, I noticed a mysterious service charge. The waitress explained that they now charge a service charge for using a credit card. She said that this was indicated on the receipt, but I didn't see it disclosed on the menu. When I go out to a restaurant I don't want to have to pore over the menu/receipt to discover what I'm really getting charged. This kind of money-grubbing shows disdain for customers. I don't like to feel like I'm being cheated when I eat out. I'm talking about this, because this kind of thing will only increase if customers don't speak out. read more

The service here wasn't good on the day I went there with my wife and daughter. First of all, their Covid-19 protocol was a little confusing. They had a sign outside the door where you go to order that says,"Stop! Order here". So, people stopped outside the door, thinking they had to wait for someone to invite them inside to order. It wasn't until someone skipped the line and went inside to order is when they figured it out. Secondly, after ordering our food, we waited about 15-20 minutes until they finally delivered my non-Philly Cheesesteak cold with cold tator tots. My wife and daughter's chicken wings and shrimp tacos were nothing to write home about either. And, finally, which I should have actually mentioned first, while we waited 20 minutes for our food to come out, one of the staff actually asked if we wouldn't mind switching tables and moving from the covered screened in area to the more crowded area with a bunch of obnoxious teens who were part of a large group, because they were trying to socially distance. Which, made no sense to me, since we were all outside, and no one was wearing masks anyway. Just not a good experience at all! read more

Atmosphere and location was great here with an outside patio. There was a lot of local restaurants in this area. Price wise for meals were around $8-$13. Appetizers: BBQ Pork Nachos ($9) - Didn't taste too much of the BBQ in it, mostly covered with cheese. Still enjoyed it. Meal: PBAT (Pimento Cheese, Bacon, Arugula, Tomatoes) ($9) - This one was pretty interesting. The blend of Pimento Cheese and bacon was a good mixed. You get either fries or tots side as well with this. I think the only reason I gave this place 3 stars is the service, my group and I just felt a bit unwelcome here. Not sure if the place was understaff or not and it could be the reason why it might have been an off day for the waiters/waitresses. I'll come by here again one day to try out some of the other foods and drinks. I still recommend this place though because it's a neat little spot and it's not too crowded when I went. read more

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A great local spot in downtown Lawrenceville. Consistently good food and very friendly service. I love their salads for lunch.

The food is great, the people are real, and there is always good sports on TV. Great neighborhood bar!