La Cuchara image

La Cuchara

Restaurant Basque restaurant

Elegant eatery with an intimate atmosphere serving Basque fare such as pintxos & tapas. People often mention great, experience, service, time, Cuchara, menu, wine, restaurant, amazing, good,


Address

3600 Clipper Mill Rd, Baltimore, MD 21211

Website

www.lacucharabaltimore.com

Contact

(443) 708-3838

Price rating

$$$ $

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (1.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Monday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Tuesday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Wednesday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Thursday: 5 to 9 PM
  • Friday: 5 to 10 PM
  • Saturday: 5 to 10 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: great (14) experience (14) service (13) time (12) Cuchara (11) menu (10) wine (10) restaurant (10) amazing (9) good (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 amy l. 2 years ago on Google
    best happy hour in town! even right now with the bar finally reopening after two years and no HH food specials yet...it's still my favorite happy hour. the complimentary incredible housemade breads + soft salted butter, a drink and snacks is a perfect visit at La Cuchara. it's also run by the nicest people- and to me, nice matters. especially now. highly recommend!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ray 1 year ago on Google
    This has become one of my absolute favorite Baltimore restaurants. Consistently excellent food, excellent service, and a lovely atmosphere. It manages to be both elegant and unpretentious. Every food item I've tried has been fantastic, but I'm especially a fan of the shrimp (tapas section of the menu), which I was told are one of the only items that don't rotate with the otherwise seasonal menu.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Claire T. 1 year ago on Google • 189 reviews
    The food was amazing! Not quite sure if they change their menu everyday but the menu has a date on it! Love the portion and quality of the food! I had an amazing time! The white wine flight was worth the pairing with food! the salad was great and so was the Expresso ice cream! The main course was a little bit spicy but it was good spicy
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Angus C. 9 months ago on Google • 81 reviews
    La Cuchara had lots of delicious and creative combinations that take a lot of Spanish influence, while still being its own unique lane of food. There are a few categories to order from, including appetizers, cheeses, tapas, and main entrees. I’d recommend getting something from each just to get a good sampling of their offerings.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Raj S. 2 years ago on Google
    Really cute spot! First of all the place is huge and well decorate, lighted, and just has a wonderful ambiance. The drinks were good - well thought out, flavorful and reasonably priced. The tapas were wonderful. The patatas bravas - excellent. The jamon croquettes quite crispy and interesting. The beef empanadas were a let down - the empanada felt undercooked. The shrimp dinner was great and the gnocchi was also well cooked. Desserts were interesting and very different. We got the pavlova and unfortunately they got the textures all wrong. They filled it with a custard which while delicious made the inside so heavy that instead of having a light and airy pavlova it was quite dense and marshmallow-y. All in all a great dinner - expensive for sure - they tried to be edgy in some spots and it didn't work but at least they are pushing the limits of what you see normally. I think my only knocks on this place was bang for your buck and the explanation of their dishes. They just needed to give me detail on what to expect and maybe the waitstaff was supposed to do that, I just was left wanting at times on what to expect.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yagmur T. 1 year ago on Google
    Everything was amazing. The food and the ambiance was very nice. The service was extremely good. The red sauce under the fish was so tasty. The shrimp was also so good with the preserved lemon and garlic. The dishes did not make us feel heavy afterwards. The tuna was cooked rare and extremely delicious. The desserts was also so nice, churros with black pepper and the bitter chocolate sauce was matching really well. The olive oil ice cream on top of the pear tart was out of this world. The experience we had there made us feel in Spain without buying a plane ticket to Spain. It was our first visit and will definitely not be the last.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Lucy N. 3 months ago on Google • 79 reviews New
    I was excited about eating here after a few years hearing of it. But, sadly, I don't understand the hype about their Spanish food and I don't think I'll go back. I am from Spain, and we go back every summer, some winters, we travel around the country... nothing I ate at La Cuchara brought me any memories or any "oh I missed this". The appetizers were very expensive if they are supposed to be tapas, and quite repetitive, just lots of cheese and meats, maybe it would be better to just have a couple of "tablas" or charcuterie trays and then other sharable plates. My son ordered patatas bravas because he loves them and he didnt eat even half of them, what is all that giant pile of green onion on top? Has anyone from the restaurant eaten patatas bravas in Spain even once? The sauce was also pretty bad, it tasted only like raw paprika, it was sandy and flavorless. I didnt recognize much more in the menu, but I could see some inspirations... anyway. It was quite expensive and we didn't enjoy it all that much. I would totally go there thinking "wine bar" they do have pages and pages of fabulous Spanish and French wine. I would 100% go to taste a couple of wines maybe with some ham and cheese, maybe churros, and that would be a far better date night.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott B. 3 months ago on Google • 128 reviews New
    The bottom line is the food and service are outstanding. We ordered several items from each section and we enjoyed it all. Correct portions, quick service(Erin), and many others stopped by the table to fill waters, replenish cocktails, and check on us. Authentic tapas plates and entrees were really delicious. Desserts were delicious and large. Get a reservation as this place is well attended.

  • 5/5 Diana W. 9 months ago on Google • 59 reviews
    Every time we visit La Cuchara, we find the food and wine better than the last...and ask, "How can that be -- it was amazing the last time!" From moving us inside because of the excessive heat to perfect timing on food delivery and every course tasting better than the last time, this restaurant, its owner, staff and kitchen deliver a crazy fun evening punctuated by superior cuisine and exceptional wines. Thanks for being our #1 Go-To spot in Baltimore!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kimberly E. 1 year ago on Google
    Thank you to the entire staff of La Cuchara for making my mother‘s birthday Amazing! You made her feel special - from the pintxos to the dessert - everything was spectacular. The service was exceptional.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Andres Ochoa G. 3 months ago on Google • 88 reviews New
    La Cuchara is the best restaurant in all of Baltimore because the food is like no other you will see in this city. When I found out about this place, I was absolutely excited to visit. I appreciate the lengths to which they tried to make the interior look like a baserri and to replicate the food that you will find at Eneperi or any restaurant in Donostia. To focus first on what sets La Cuchara apart from all others, the food. We loved the croquetas with the perfect texture and a delicious mix of bechamel and Spanish ham. The pintxos de Guilda tastes exactly like the ones you would find in the pintxos bars in Donostia or Bilbao. The grilled shrimp were fresher, cooked to the perfect point, on top of bed of roasted sweet peppers. The desserts had the right combination of tradition and unusual elements that made the experience more captivating. I loved the great selection of wines, especially txakoli and Rioja reds. This not a 5-star review because of the service. Looks like this place has had such a huge success that it is struggling to find good staff. Although we had a reservation, we had to wait 20 min after the reservation time to be sited. The waiter does not manage the table or control what comes out of the kitchen. Every single time they missed clearing the table before the next dishes arrived, and they never completely cleared the table (I really do not understand why they will take some of the dirty empty dishes but not all). We had to ask for clean plates, and they brought us wet plates. These are all rookie mistakes that can be easily fixed by training the staff and good management. I would love to come back in my next visit to Baltimore, but hopefully during a time that is less crowded.

  • 5/5 Ana A. 5 months ago on Google • 11 reviews
    Amazing food and service! Our waitress Jae was so helpful and attentive. My boyfriend has celiac disease and she took the time to mark up a paper copy of the menu with every gluten free option. We ordered a bottle of wine and the sommelier recommended a great bottle of wine in our price range. All of the food was great! The tapas are larger than at most American Spanish restaurants and are closer to the size of an appetizer. Strongly recommend the duck breast, the shrimp with chorizo, and the crème brûlée.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jenna S. 10 months ago on Google • 6 reviews
    This was our first time visiting La Cuchara and our experience absolutely exceeded our expectations. The food was phenomenal and the wait-staff was friendly, attentive, and eager to give recommendations. We can't wait to come back and try more dishes!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 G K. 1 year ago on Google
    What an amazing hidden taps spot in Baltimore! Amazing service, food and wine! We came for dinner on a Monday night but ended up at the endless bar! It’s one of the 3 spaces in this restaurant and it’s so opened and modern, awesome vibes! We ordered charcuterie plates and each serving of cheese or meat was very oversized, about .25-.30 of a pound each plate! It was too much for us and most folks who ordered it, everyone was leaving with a box. Other hot tapas were very tasty as well. Wine selection was mostly from Spain and we were given a taste of 3 or 4 before we chose a bottle of red Tempranillo. I saw the cocktails and they looked very good too. Overall, a great experience, everything went smooth and we enjoyed it a lot. Prices were also very fair for the portions and quality of food. This place is a must visit, it was pretty full on a regular Monday night, I can imagine how busy it is on a weekend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nathaniel M. 1 year ago on Google
    Went for dinner tonight and had a blast! Party of six for a birthday with family turned out to be a multicourse experience full of flavor and excitement. Wine list is well curated and fantastically priced. Can’t wait to make it back.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Preston E. 2 years ago on Google
    The food and service here were exceptional. Met up with friends and shared several plates and a bottle of wine. All the food was incredible, especially the croquettes, the black garlic fideua and the calimari. Knowledgeable staff could make recommendations for food and wine. Decor was lovely and warm. Cannot wait to come back!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris D. 1 month ago on Google • 14 reviews New
    Went for a birthday dinner. The restaurant has a warm welcoming vibe and the staff are the best. Our server was very knowledgeable about that day's menu and got us settled in with drinks promptly. The food was amazing. We tried a little bit from each section of the menu and loved every dish. Will definitely be coming back.

  • 5/5 Daniel D. 1 month ago on Google • 10 reviews New
    We had a baby back in October, which meant we were mostly house-bound for a few months. The baby’s Grandma gave us a break one December night so we could go on our first date since the baby was born. We decided on ordering several courses of tapas and ponchos. Everything was lovely. All the dishes had a ”wintery” feel. Standouts were a butternut squash ravioli and my favorite, sweet potato (or maybe butternut squash?) sorbet. The sorbet had a hint of chili pepper that warmed your whole body as you ate it. Great service as well.

  • 5/5 Kristi B. 2 months ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    The food was phenomenal. Everything was done to perfection. The wine list and cocktails were also fantastic. Our waiter was attentive but not overbearing. Our glasses stayed full and food came out quickly and we never felt rushed. The atmosphere was warm and lively. We can't wait to come back in the summer and try their outdoor seating.

  • 5/5 Schasle B. 1 year ago on Google
    Loved every minute of our dining experience. We were sat promptly, greeted and given water immediately. Service was awesome, our server’s knowledge of the menu was great! Food & drinks were delicious. Happy we celebrated my husband’s birthday here. Thank you to the team for your dedication to providing such a great experience!

  • 5/5 Dr. Dean K. 1 year ago on Google
    Love this authentic Basque restaurant. There is such an amazing variety of of food choices to choose from and the portions are large. We truly enjoy the quality and diversity of the food and menu. The staff were excellent. We will keep coming back for an excellent dining experience. Lauri and Dean Kane

  • 5/5 Zindela 4 months ago on Google
    This evening I had the pleasure of dining at La Cuchara It was an outstanding experience from start to finish. The star of the evening was undoubtedly our waiter, Benedict, whose exceptional service elevated our dining experience. The cornmeal crusted oysters were a true delight – the perfect balance of crispy texture and succulent flavor. Each bite was a testament to the chef's skill and the freshness of the ingredients. The creme brulee was a sweet sensation, delivering a delightful end to our meal. It showcased the chef's attention to detail and commitment to delivering a memorable dessert. However, the highlight of the evening was the entree featuring scallops. The scallops were cooked to perfection, tender and bursting with flavor. This dish was nothing short of phenomenal, and it left a lasting impression on our taste buds. Overall, La Cuchara provided a culinary experience that exceeded expectations. The combination of excellent service from Benedict and the exceptional quality of the dishes, particularly the cornmeal crusted oysters and scallops, makes this restaurant a must-visit in Baltimore. I highly recommend La Cuchara for anyone seeking a memorable and delicious dining experience. Five stars well-deserved!

  • 5/5 Rachel L. 1 year ago on Google
    Most importantly, this is one of the best happy hours in baltimore but dinner is not to be missed either. Everything is a must try

  • 5/5 Phillip V. 5 months ago on Google
    Quite a dining experience. Let my daughter do most of the ordering. She chose wisely as everything was superb. I can't pronounce the names of some of the various dishes , but I liked all of them Had a smoked Old Fashion, which was great. One of the owners even came over and spent some time talking with us. He was really engaging. Service was perfect ... completely attentive the entire time

  • 5/5 Santosh S. 5 months ago on Google
    Industrial chic - beautiful bar with great good and amazing vibes. Must try the small plates. Loved it

  • 5/5 Jaimes M. 1 year ago on Google
    We had a wonderful anniversary dinner here last night. The food is always delicious and I love that I learn something new from the way dishes are put together when I eat here. I also love that I trust the quality enough to be adventurous when ordering. The service is also great! Overall a reliably wonderful experience every time we dine here!

  • 5/5 Juhi P. 1 year ago on Google
    Semi upscale Basque restaurant with great atmosphere inside. Amazing food and interiors. Lots of parking outside. New Hampden favorite!

  • 5/5 Genesis G. 3 months ago on Google • 2 reviews New
    highly recommend this restaurant! the staff was knowledgeable, kind and very attentive. food and drinks were amazing as well as the ambiance - great for a date night. my partner and i got the shrimp planxa, black trumpet mushrooms pasta and wood grilled strip steak - all were DELICIOUS.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍


Call (443) 708-3838 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free parking lot
    • ✓️ Plenty of parking
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

Trends



Last updated:

Similar places



Similar Restaurants nearby

Last updated:
()