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La Vara
Master Critic Review
La Vara
8.9
La Vara is a Cobble Hill Spanish restaurant from chefs Alex Raij and Eder Montero, serving tapas that weave together Moorish, Jewish, and regional Spanish flavors. Since 2012 it has drawn citywide attention, including Michelin Guide recognition, for thoughtful small plates and a cozy, brick-lined dining room that works especially well for date nights. Plates are polished and memorable, with a wine list that rewards lingering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garbanzos fritos, Salpicon Pontevedra shrimp salad, Torrijas Spanish-style French toast
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Spanish tapas spotlighting the Moorish and Jewish influences in Spain.
Who should go: Couples and small groups craving refined Spanish tapas.
When to visit: Prime-time evenings or later seatings for full energy.
What to order: Garbanzos fritos, salpicon Pontevedra, torrijas for dessert.
Insider tip: Book ahead and ask for a table toward the back room for a slightly quieter date-night feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive after 6pm, especially on weekends. Plan to meter hunt or use nearby garages.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine with a polished top, but most guests elevate the look.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—romantic energy with background buzz, but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–90 minutes without a reservation during peak hours (7–9pm).
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—La Vara is dinner-only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetable-forward tapas and vegetarian plates are always available.
Vegan options: Limited—typically a few naturally vegan small plates, but not a dedicated vegan-focused menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several gluten-free options are available, though cross-contact is possible in a small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's ideal for first dates thanks to the shareable tapas format, warm lighting, and relaxed but polished vibe that encourages conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends and prime hours are tough without booking ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is best suited for adults and older teens with adventurous palates rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Deeper, chef-driven Spanish flavors with historical influences and a more intimate, date-forward atmosphere than most tapas spots.
Skip if: You want fast, casual Spanish food or a loud, party-style tapas experience—this is slower, more refined, and meant for lingering.