Jane Marlowe

2 weeks ago

"La Vara serves excellent Spanish tapas, cocktails, and wine in a quiet but lively atmosphere. The menu explores the Jewish and Moorish heritage of Spain with really tasty and creative small plates. Plan to order 3-4 per person, as they really are on the small side. We especially loved the butter served with the anchovies and toast, and appreciated that our server refilled the toast. Also outstanding were the Judios a la Plancha and Rossejat (like a seafood paella made with noodles instead of rice.) Service was friendly and attentive."

ebony shears

2 weeks ago

"just … wow. our expectations were high after just having dined (and enjoyed!) next door at saint julivert recently. they were met and exceeded! we were in on a thursday, on the later end for la vara so even though we were only two we were able to take a booth. started with delicious cocktails and ordered the anchovies, chicories salad with persimmon, blue cheese and the most interesting coffee-infused vinaigrette, and had the tosta tomaca which was so good we ordered a second! there was a special cogote—roasted kanpachi fish head with sofrito butter that was so tasty we cleaned it to the bone, and the cochinillo with tximitxurri was so succulent and flavorful and the crispy skin just takes it over the top. dessert for us was basque cheesecake and a mini of the chocolate flan that we were gifted because we just couldn’t decide and there was a birthday involved…both had a bit of salt that did exactly what it was meant to and both were incredible. Sari, our server was delightful and Rob the GM was the perfect host! i’d love to visit with a bit of a group to be able to sample more of the menu in one sitting. either way, we’ll be back … so many other dishes to try."

Gabriel

a month ago

"Came here for the first time and was delighted by the good food. We were two persons and had over 8 to 10 dishes including dessert and a few drinks. The most outstanding dishes were the salchichon, arroz meloso and morros prensados, I was pretty impressed of their taste. We had a vermut and wine to drink with the dishes. Service was superb and the atmosphere great, even though the place was full. The desserts were also very good. Overall this is an excellent Spanish tapas plates with a twist and I will definitely comeback here again."

Benny Goldstein

a month ago

"I had an absolutely outstanding experience at La Vara on Clinton Street, and I can confidently say this is one of the finest dining spots in Brooklyn. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel genuinely welcomed. Everyone there was warm, attentive, and incredibly nice, striking that perfect balance between professionalism and friendliness that instantly elevates the whole experience. The food at La Vara is where the magic truly happens. Every dish is elegant, delicious, and presented with meticulous attention to detail. You can tell the kitchen takes real pride in crafting plates that not only taste incredible but look beautiful as well. Each item that came out felt like a small piece of art — layered flavors, creative combinations, and spot-on seasoning. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you why dining out can feel special. The atmosphere was comfortable yet refined, making it ideal for both a relaxed night out or a memorable celebration. After this experience, there’s no question about it — I will definitely be coming back again. If you’re looking for exceptional food, kind people, and an elevated dining experience, La Vara should be at the top of your list."

jade

2 months ago

"Really really good. Some dishes are a miss but maybe that was personal preference. this restaurant is excellent and I would 100% recommend it. The chocolate flan is an ABSOLUTE must. It is one of the best desserts I've had in New York City and one of the best bites of the year Favorite dishes I had here were the Ajo Blanco and the cucumber grain salad"