Bar Tomas

mark cave 2 months ago

If you live in Charlottesville (or are just passing through) and don't dine at Bar Tomas, you're missing out on our region's finest chef. Every item on the menu is a work of art. And the service is impeccable. A near perfect dining experience.

Henri Zevin 3 months ago

so i walk in and ask for a space for 1....server said for 1, I would need to sit at the bar and not at a 2-top table to allow for parties of 2...completely understood, so I sat down and presented with a well worn but amazing menu. Its a small plate tapas style restaurant so i asked if i could start off with 2 items and she responded "the chef would like your entire order before you place it because they are small plates" that did not sit well with me. What would have happened if i wanted more than the original 2 items or wasnt sure what else id want? ...it felt like she wanted to control my dining experience - all or nothing - no other choice...so, i politely said "im sorry but i dont eat tapas that way." This may be petty but the whole conversation struck me as odd and rude. So i wish i could tell you about the Gazpacho or the Caprese style salad......but i didnt taste a thing

John Eavis 4 months ago

Excellent experience, honestly the best meal I’ve had in Charlottesville, and I’ve been to nearly every restaurant in the city over the past 15 years. The service was excellent, I especially appreciated Mary’s warm hospitality. The food was standard Spanish tapas —nothing that reinvented the wheel— with execution that was faithful, but not tedious. There’s honestly no need to excessively experiment with many of these dishes, and I prefer simplicity when looking for a good tapas or tapas-inspired meal. I felt that the portion sizes and ingredient quality were completely appropriate for what I paid. The location is also lovely, very simple but with plenty of charm. It felt like I was transported to a casual eatery somewhere in the Mediterranean (but with a central Virginia twist).

Andrea L Merrill 2 years ago

What a fun and unexpected place! You would never know by looking at the outside that there is world class delicious food being served inside. This is a 2 person show and the service and food is amazing. They also have an impressive wine list for a small casual restaurant. What a hidden gem!

Bridget Lisec 2 years ago

I selfishly don't want to review this place because I want it to stay our little secret. Quality Pie is the best restaurant in Charlottesville. So fresh, flavorful and good variety of dishes with a rotating seasonal menu. The duo who runs this place are also so kind and helpful. Don't even get me started on the bread... it is like a warm hug when you need it most. You can tell the chef truly loves what their doing because the care with each dish is unmatched. Don't sleep on this place. It's the best!