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BABA
Master Critic Review
BABA
8.2
BABA on Withers is a natural wine bar with a tight menu of share plates and a dedicated happy hour menu built around discounted wines and snacks. The backyard and candlelit interior make it as strong for first glasses and fries as it is for lingering over bottles later in the night.
Must-Try Dishes:
BABA Fries with Manchego and Cayenne Mayo, Mushroom Toast, Panisse with Remoulade
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Natural wine–driven happy hour with serious snack game and a backyard.
Who should go: Wine-forward groups wanting snacks and conversation before dinner.
When to visit: Sunday–Thursday 5–7pm for discounted wine and small plates.
What to order: Baba fries, mushroom toast, whatever clarified cocktail is pouring.
Insider tip: Target an early happy hour table in the backyard on nice evenings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive after 6pm. Expect to circle a few blocks on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy-casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but still easy to hold a conversation, louder indoors than in the backyard.
Weekend wait: 30–60 min without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service — typically no wait during early weekday happy hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several strong vegetable-driven small plates and sides.
Vegan options: Limited — a few plates can be ordered vegan with minor modifications.
Gluten-free options: Some gluten-free-friendly dishes available, but cross-contact is possible in the small kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the candlelit interior and backyard create a relaxed, intimate vibe without feeling stuffy, making conversation easy and natural.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes during early happy hour on weekdays, but walk-ins after 7pm on weekends usually mean a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — this is more of an adult wine bar setting with a late crowd and no kid-focused menu.
Best For
Better for: Backyard drinks, natural wine lovers, and intimate group hangs that blend snacks with serious bottles.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full dinner menu, loud party energy, or a quick in-and-out drink near Bedford.