Adela Grilled Wild Mushrooms

Of all the dishes tonight this was our least favorite.  There was a small assortment of mushrooms offered and they were very soft.  Usually when mushrooms are grilled they have a nice smoky flavor and a firm texture which these mushrooms were lacking.  The mushroom citrus vinaigrette further detracted from the robust flavor that is typical of grilled mushrooms.  Had the mushrooms been more firm and smokey, the creamy goat cheese would have been a much better compliment to the dish.

Adela Grilled Scallions Photo

Adela Grilled Scallions

We have to admit that we were amazed at what the chef was able to do with such a simple and unexpected food item.  Really...who highlights Scallions as a main dish???  This chef took a huge risk and it paid off.  He started off by grilling these whole scallions to perfection.   They were topped with a light and airy Romesco sauce which we later learned is made of pureed almonds.  Despite the sauces creamy texture, there was no dairy included.  The scallions had a charred caramelized smokey sweet flavor.   The stalks were tender at the top and the  bulbs of the scallions provided a superb crunchiness.

Adela Chilled Haricot Verts Photo

Adela Chilled Haricot Verts

The chef prepared slightly crisp green beans coupled with roasted shallots which perfectly matched the spicy smoked paprika.  He added orange vinaigrette to give the dish a burst of color.  The green beans we cooked to perfection.  Angela noted that she preferred them not cooked to mush like we often find in grandma’s kitchen.  Melissa was slightly disappointed with the orange vinaigrette as the citrus flavor was lacking.  Overall the dish was a success. 

Angela's Adela Review

As someone who eats out frequently, I have come to the conclusion that sitting at the bar is the best way to get a feel for a restaurant, especially as a single woman. Our first experience dining here was on a Saturday, eating lunch in the dining area. This time the food was rather hit or miss.  Our second experience, gives credence to my theory. It also proves that every restaurant deserves a second try. This time we did sit at the bar (granted, this was because there was no room in the dining area due to a private party being held) and it turned out to be the best decision we could have made. The bartender, Jay is a fount of knowledge about everything from making drinks to the history of Adela to how dishes are prepared, and we thoroughly enjoyed being served by him.  When I was asked what I would like to drink, I inquired as to whether they carried St. Germaine, an elderflower liquor that my friends have decided is my signature drink, since I frequently order it. Sadly, they do not. However, all was not lost. Jay asked me what I like about it. I like that it is sweet and aromatic, one of the highest complements I give is that something is “perfumey,” and this fits the bill. He then asked what I drink it with. I usually drink it on the rocks, but I know it is good with Champagne. Once I mentioned this he was off. He came back with the best drink I think I may have ever tasted. It was a combination of Liquor 43, a Spanish based, vanilla flavored liquor, which incidentally is another favorite of mine (maybe he has psychic abilities), and champagne with a dash of cinnamon and orange zest; that complemented every bite of the various dishes we shall describe for you herein.  I give this restaurant 4 music notes, as the experience pretty much made my heart sing J.  If you go, say hey to Jay for me.

Melissa's Adela Review

Adela is a true Charm City gem.  Fresh, delicious, creative and reasonably priced food makes this one of my top ten restaurants.   The chef is ambitious and courageous in that he does not rely on salt to carry the flavors of his food.  His use of less popular spices like smoked paprika and orange zest highlight his adventurous spirit.  I feel that he succeeds most of the time with his menu items.  Every now and again he will offer a dish that is lackluster; 4 out of 5 times he manages to hit the ball out of the park.  If you take the time to read the menu you can tell when a dish is going to fall short of perfection.  The seating arrangement and restaurant layout is a bit awkward.  If there are large parties occupying their main dining areas, guests are left to sit in the bar area.  The bar area is cozy and adequate but not 100% comfortable.  I would love to see some over sized circular booths or something a bit more comfy.  Additionally each room of the restaurant has a very different color scheme and decorative style.  It’s very eclectic.  Overall I give the restaurant 3 music notes.  The yummy food and reasonable prices make up for the minor atmosphere issues.  I give Adela ♪♪♪. 

Adela's Overall Rating

We both agree that Adela is a great spot to have tapas.  The combination of creative and intriguing foods, reasonable prices and hefty portion sizes make this restaurant a winner.  Our entire dinner with all the foods reviewed was only $68.00 total for 2 people.  What it lacks in atmosphere it makes up for in value and creativity.  It is also important to note that they do not have have a good or interesting dessert menu.  We would recommend Adela as perfect for meeting up with that blind date your best friend set you up with, lending itself both to getting the heck out of there after a short period of time… or closing the place down trying to get to know one another better. It is good for couples that have been together for a while and just want to enjoy a casual night out and it is a great place to catch up with friends and/or coworkers after a long day at work.  This is not a family restaurant, kids would be bored and there are no kid friendly items on the menu.  This restaurant has limited paid street parking as well as valet parking which serves all 4 restaurants and is located at their sister restaurant (Meli) around the corner.  Overall we give Adela ♪♪♪ and ½ music notes.