When Ben, Jake, and Amy Lefenfeld opened La Cuchara in the spring of 2015, it led many Baltimoreans to research the Basque region and, maybe more importantly, how the hell to pronounce “pinxtos.” But once the linguistics got figured out, diners quickly fell in love with the romantic space in an old coat factory, and its cuisine inspired by the Spain-France border. Every moment — from the salted butter with bread service to the indulgent candy bar for dessert — makes for a memorable night out.
Yes, the restaurant is flanked by two beautiful, art-filled dining areas. But trust us, sit at the bar. There are almost always available stools at the roomy, rectangular bar, which serves discounted snacks, $5 beers, $6.50 glasses of wine, and $7 gin and tonic du jours during happy hour, running Monday through Friday, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Speaking of wine, talk to the sommelier, whose nickname is Red. He’ll lead you in the right direction for pairings, like which Rioja is the best companion to the hearty txuleton bone-in ribeye. On Sundays, bottles over $100 are half-price.
The family-owned restaurant group is working on a new space, Seppia, up the street in Hampden, which promises a coastal Italian vibe. We can’t wait.