Culinaria

You have to look around corners to find this place. It’s really hidden, but it’s there. We didn’t have a reservation but they sat us anyway. It was my son’s birthday. Very small but apparently just right. Everything we ordered tasted wonderful. The presentation was on point. I was even scoping out the people’s orders next to us. Everything looked and tasted flavorful. I will definitely return. It’s kind of pricey, definitely a special occasion stop. Oh yeah, parking is tight.

My love and I went here for our anniversary dinner. We chose to sit on the patio when we first made the reservation because we thought it might be a nice fall night. It was a bit chilly, but the server did not hesitate to make sure the heaters were on all around us. Despite the cool air, the patio ambiance was very nice. Our server was friendly, pleasant and made sure we had everything we needed without hovering. The drinks here are pricey but delightfully artisan. The old fashion my boyfriend got was incredibly smooth and flavorful. We started with the fried chicken hummus, which I thought would be weird, but it was delicious! My boyfriend got the Chicken Shawarma and I got the Shrimp Mujaddara. Both dishes were amazing. The shrimp dish had a slight spiciness to it, but I loved it. If you love Mediterranean food, this place is awesome. It's a small restaurant that keeps pretty busy so reservations highly, highly recommended, especially if you have more than 4 in your party.

My wife and I went out to celebrate our 23rd wedding anniversary, and picked this kind of randomly. Finding it was interesting because it's tucked away behind another business but once we did get there it was absolutely fantastic. The service was quick and attentive, and the food was absolutely amazing. The only downside to it was purely we couldn't save room for dessert because the mezze platter and chicken shawarma was just that bloody good. I'm looking forwards to the next special occasion we get out with!

My experience with Mediterranean food in Lawrence has only been average or so - so, at best. Today was vastly different. Culinaria was a tremendous surprise. Our out of town friends picked your place for our night out and all four of us we delighted. All of our meals and drinks were fantastic. As was the entire dining experience: excellent food, excellent service, and a very pleasant atmosphere. We all agreed that we would come back when we could experience the patio. And yes, we all would recommend you restaurant.

A fresh take on Mediterranean food and thankfully the chef scored a hit across the full menu. The flavor was wonderful, the ingredients fresh and the food experience is one that I'll not soon forget. It was noisy and seating was uncomfortable so probably not the best choice for a quiet long dining choice.

There were two of us dinning and our one year old toddler. This place was amazing! So glad google recommended it to us. We ordered one platter and an extra bowl of pickles. I am so impressed with how authentic and wonderful the food is, as someone who had fresh Mediterranean food while I was overseas. The platter was way more than we could eat at one time, with many choices of salad mixes to choose from.

I was really looking forward to trying this "Mediterranean inspired" restaurant here in lawrence, and what a disappointment it turned out to be. I should have guessed it wasn't going to be good Mediterranean food just by seeing chilaquiles as 1 of the 4 entrée options. Anyways, the drinks were really good we did enjoy them. The atmosphere is really good too, and service wasn't the fastest but was to be expected during a graduation weekend. The falafel was really good, I can see that it might be a little too spicy for some people, but we really liked it. Also ordered the spiced beef hummus and halloumi caprese. The hummus is okay, but the beef was past "crunchy." it was more like burnt. For the halloumi, I didn't like the presentation, but that was just my personal opinion. My main complaint with that dish would be the halloumi itself. It didn't tasted or had the texture like it should, im not sure that it even was halloumi! Even with all of that, the main reason I'm giving it this rating is because of the entrée, the chicken shawarma. I don't even know where to start. It was bad, from the presentation to the taste. Chicken tasted as if it was boiled and then slapped with some Seasonings on top, with no color or taste to it. The pieces of potatoes that came with it were more flavorful, We couldn't even finish that. And to wrap it up, mousse for dessert. The flavor was spot on, but the texture it looked and felt heavy, more like a cake... without mentioning that half the cup was just cream. Considering that this is supposed to be one of the best spots in lawrence is very disappointing.

We came here on a whim for a bit of a celebration and were blown away by the quality of food, experience, and taste! We tried the Ultimate Culinaria Experience. Incredible bang for your buck with AMAZING food and drinks. We will be here again!!

Really lovely and intimate spot for a shared meal. We got a little bit of everything and had a nice spread. The steak hummus was insanely good. The hummus was smooth and so delicious, and there were big chunks of meat. Loved the pickled vegetables, tart and flavorful. The chicken shawarma had really lovely crispy potatoes. The presentation isn't your standard Mediterranean. I do wish they had more protein options, they had meat options with the hummus and the entrees had meat, but it would have been nice to have had some small plate protein options. If you can't handle spice, you're going to be in a rude awakening. Every dish we ordered had a kick of some kind.

Stopped in for Restaurant Week 2024 and the place was packed! Reservation was a must. And it was busy for a good reason, so yummy!! Food highlights for us were the apps. The beets, the falafel and the hummus! And that beef shawarma with french fries hit the spot. The cocktails were delish and the staff were so happy, warm and welcoming! Great spot to try some MediFusion foods!

The food was very tasty and different from a standard Mediterranean restaurant. The service was friendly, but reservations seem to be required if you want to sit outside on the patio. Ambiance inside is funky and fun with a full bar.

I had a great time here with my girlfriend, sampling delicious tapas and actually (thankfully) saving room for dessert! The inside was definitely loud, which seemed to be addressed by the padded walls, but boy it's still quite loud. We would have loved to sit outside but you definitely need a reservation for that, especially on a Saturday night. We enjoyed the pickled veg dish, the Korean potatoes were *SUBLIME*, the empanadas were dry and underwhelming by comparison to everything else. Our favorite was the squash dish, and the eggplant hummus - you really can't go wrong!!! Sipping on thyme lemonade while it's still in season is the move here. For dessert, we loved both the bread pudding and the berry galette!!!! You absolutely must save room for them, as the portions are gargantuan and enough to share for a table of 4 or more. We had coffee service with our dessert, but the coffee was extremely weak and they didn't have a timer on the French press so we just had to guess when it would be ready - kinda weird. No alternative dairy to my knowledge so keep that in mind if visiting this place for dessert as well. Overall we had a lovely evening and we'll definitely be back! A great place for a birthday night or anniversary too!

We came here for a special occasion date night, and it was just what I had hoped for. I absolutely love the quaint and warm ambience with the stone walls and paper lanterns inside. I look forward to coming back when it's warmer to sit on the cute outdoor patio. The menu brings something fresh that I haven't found elsewhere in Lawrence. Lots of shareables and appetizers that would be great for large groups to have with some creative cocktails, which they also have plenty of on their menu. I enjoyed the "sage advice," which was short and strong. The house hummus was the best I've ever had, and I was pleasantly surprised by how many pickled toppings it was served with. When we received our entrees I was a little worried that they would not be filling enough, but I was pleasantly surprised when I could almost not finish the shrimp mujadarra! I'm choosing not to detract a star for service, but it could have been better. Our server (tall guy with tattoos) was not the most attentive or friendly. But everything else was so good that I am still excited to come back. Btw: I highly recommend making a reservation, and I also recommend ordering several dishes to share or at least one appetizer before your entree.

Had a very good dinner there on 6/8/24 however although their drink menu shows top shelf liquor... I ordered a Jack Rose cocktail specifically for Laird's Apple brandy and after consuming it the bartender had the audacity to tell me that she used Christian Brothers brandy instead !! Of course I was charged full price...

Location: East Lawrence. A few blocks aways from Massachusetts street( Downtown). Ambiance: beautiful, cozy place with a large outdoor space. Food: It is just delicious. Everything you order is outstanding. Falafel is ways fresh, carne asada, cooked to the perfection. Pita bread is fresh. Service: in general, it is excellent. The only issue is that this place can get crowded. Even if you make a reservation, you can wait 20-30 minutes, past your reservation time. Yelp factor: In a nutshell, this is the best food you can get in Lawrence. Period.

Never disappoints! Been many times and just love all the flavors. We ordered several items like fried chicken hummus, cauliflower, chicken shawarma, Brussel sprout, and son ordered the short rib which he said was amazing. Lilly our server was excellent!!! We love the new bar inside as well as it is so much bigger. Definitely a must try if you have never been there.

Hands down my favorite restaurant in Lawrence. I have not ordered any dishes I did not enjoy - anything from greens to protein dishes. I'd say this place seasons more on the heavy side, which I love but maybe not for everyone.

Rude!!! We had a reservation at 7. For over a week. We arrived 15 minutes early and our table for 6 had 4 people sitting there done with their meal. The waitress was very inefficient. She didn't even clear dishes or give the bill for 30 more minutes. Then she never picked up the red bill book. Finally at 7;45 we kindly asked the people if they were done and we were celebrating a birthday. The 4 people at the 6 top said yes they were done and gladly left. Then the rude waitress told us she wouldn't serve us. They would not give us any manager or manager information. It was mainly the waitress tall with black hair that was so unbelievable. They were so rude and mean to us. We will never ever go to this restaurant again

This is one of Lawrence's best food places I think- away from Mass street, tucked away in a little corner. Last we had been here was 5 years ago when we invited our friends to celebrate our daughter's undergrad graduation. Now that we have our youngest at Lawrence, we went again last night- it was just as great as we had remembered. Mediterranean tapas - love them. We ordered the fried cauliflower, the halloumi's, and burnt eggplant hummus from the small plates; everything was yummy- even the pita, perfectly, crisp, warm and thin!!! For entrees we got the fried chicken, burnt ends hummus, Mac n cheese w/fried chicken, the falafel and the chicken shawarma. I tried everything - and it was all outstanding. The fried chicken flavorful and perfectly crisped, the burnt ends were tender and yummy, and we loved the smashed potatoes the most in the chicken schwarma plate!! We even had the sweet potato fritters for our dessert- and were not disappointed! Definitely recommend if you live there, are visiting or passing by. I was able to make reservations on line, earlier the same day, and it was super convenient! Our server was helpful, efficient and nice!

Outstanding. Ordered the hummus & carne asada; hummus & fried chicken; and the crispy potato. So so so great! Too full for desert but had a bite of doughnut holes.

Never disappoints, always great service and food. Literally sharing a meal makes for a memorable experience. Thanks

Maybe I came here on a bad night. Location is historic and interesting. Yelp reviews 4.5-every Yelp place I've been with high scores like this have been excellent. Not here. Food is the worst I've had in years. I've spent a lot of time in the Middle East and the Mediterranean, so I thought that "Mediterranean inspired " meant those flavors would be present in their offerings. Not at all. The mezze platter was comprised of familiar items, none of which were good. The falafel was a spice bomb (Emeril?), even the pickled items were not good. Brussels sprouts spiced in the most unappealing way.The "coq au vin" special was disgraceful, a small sad bowl of gray soup that had chicken, mushrooms and (what?) pita as dumplings--and chopped black olive (again--what?) one wonders whether this is a case of the emperor's new clothes, where the pretension is believed by the customers. Really awful. Your mileage may vary.

Great food and service. Small bites to share and hummus was good. Nice choice of selection on the menu

Loved the food! Loved the service! We were 6 and an infant. We started with the Mezze plate to start. yum! Then had the chicken schwarma, paella, and a beautiful salad. The patio was lovely. And they had gluten-free house made crackers were awesome!

We enjoyed eating here tonight! We both had the lamb with salad, greens, feta, cheese, olives, etc. I ordered a sober mule cocktail and a beautiful copper mug. Would highly recommend this restaurant. It was somewhat crowded dining room, no room so we ate outside in a beautiful setting the only critique I could add is for outdoor music the people at the table next to us we're having many rounds of drinks, loud conversation. Our servers were very helpful and even brought my guide dog Giorgio a bowl of cold water.

Came here mid-week and had never been. The space is beautiful, tucked away in a formerly-industrial part of downtown. I'm sure the building once housed something. Interesting! Mediterranean themed menu really works and they are creative and elegant with their offerings. They also had a nice selection of wine, beer and cocktails. The menu isn't enormous, so clearly they decided to go with quality and thoughtfulness over quantity...perfect! I'm sure the server wished we had gone with the specials, but I'm a vegetarian and that night they weren't. I had the vegetable shawarma, which was more like a curry. Very tasty and warming, if unexpected. My friend had chicken shawarma, which seemed more traditional. We shared the fattoush salad, which was fresh and generous..wonderful. For dessert, we went with the pear tart with goat whipped cream! It was unexpectedly, awesome, actually three small hand-cut tartlets, buttery and crispy. I was catching up with my college roommate, and they'd closed but they just let us sit and chat. Very nice staff! Lovely ambiance. I can't wait to go back.

LOVED IT! We'll definitely be back!! Great atmosphere and loves the mezze platter, specifically their hummus!

Words cannot express how much I appreciate this place. Truly original, delicious, healthy dishes, lots of rotation of a dynamic menu. Already a Lawrence legend.

My wife and ate here on a Thursday evening. We had no reservation but thankfully they had room for us at the bar. It's a really neat place that is warm and inviting. Small and cozy so I can see why reservations would be a great idea! The waitress was super friendly and on top of her game. The bartender said it was his first night back after a two year hiatus but you'd never know it. He made a custom drink for my wife and was all around a great person to converse with. The food was incredible!! The Mezze appetizer, which is similar to a charcuterie board, was very well portioned and delicious. My wife had the vegetable shawarma and was a little bit put off by the presentation of her meal, which I'd agree looked like a pile of mush, but it tasted out of this world. I had the paella and once again it was so good. It was full of flavor and you could tell everything we ate was fresh. We will definitely go back.

What a refreshing twist on dining that has been built here. Everything from the unique location to the ever changing menu with top notch drink options makes this a spot that will be on my list when we decide to splurge a bit. For starters, if you're looking for a unique venue, this is most definitely unlike any other in the city. Housed in an 1800s stone building built as a stable around the time of Quantrill's Raid--give or take on the time--its been converted into a lovely event space with a small bar in one corner, the kitchen tucked away on the south end, plenty of space, no overcrowding on the night we visited, and it was packed. Expect ancient stone walls, concrete floor. The menu varies, tends to favor middle eastern but dips into other influences. I'm really interested in defining one thing: is the food and service good? It is, and some. We started off with three appetizers for party of four, pretty ambitious we found due to portion sizes, but no complaints. Jerusalem hummus, artichoke hearts and Brussels sprouts. Love that the chef is not afraid to make vegetables the star here, though it is by no means a vegan/vegetarian experience, just plenty of options. The cocktails and wines were first-rate, in particular, offering a Marlborough region New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is a winner on the menu. The inclusion of several reds I don't often see also perked my interest. Another time. The entrees were also top-rate and thanks to the way the meal was managed, we paid less attention to photographing and social media and more on each other. Isn't that the way it's supposed to be? All in all, first-rate, definitely on our return plans. Only minor issue, likely due to inexperience on the part of our server or the busy evening, drink glasses and empty small plates lingered to the end, and not just on our table. I'd like to see that improve and possibly it will with time. There's a really good thing going on here with the menu, I'm pulling for them. Highly recommended.

Quite sensational food, and service! I believe our waiters name was Kye (not positive). Either way. This service was very accommodating. The food. Was. Exquisite. As well. Thank you.

I was excited to try this place but was sorely disappointed. We had the paella, brussels sprouts, and the fried artichoke hearts. The rice on the paella was severely undercooked and its chicken was dry and overcooked. I like extra salty food, but the brussels sprouts were unfortunately far beyond reasonably salted. We had to stop eating them until we could get any other food to eat them with. The table was also sticky over the whole surface. I love mediterranean food but this wasn't my favorite, especially for the price. The service was fine. No qualms with the service.

I've been here several times, I've brought out of town friends here because the ambiance is delightful. I really want to like this place, great ambience, friendly service, beautiful food presentation. But the downfall? The food is just mediocre. I've been here a handful of times and the food was always just 'bla.' The food is expensive because you're paying for that ambiance, not much more. There are several other places in Lawrence with a less delightful ambiance, but much better food for a fraction of the price.

Five stars, A+, chef's kiss, whatever cliche accolades you need. This is a small, unassuming place a couple blocks away from the busy energy of Massachusetts Street. Not a lot of seats but that makes for great intimate atmosphere. Service was fantastic and the instant you walk in you can smell how great the food is going to be. We got the Fried Chicken Hummus and Roasted Olive appetizers and they were absolutely incredible, the kind of food that you like at first bite but realize five minutes later is incredibly complex and nuanced. Also got one of their cocktails called Cinnamon Greyhound and it was amazing. Not only was each dish perfect, they went together so well, even the drink. All of the flavor profiles complimented each other. Absolutely will come here again.

Had dinner on Saturday evening with my husband and a friend. Our reservation was at 6:30 and we arrived on time. We had appetizers, full meals, drinks and dessert. Libby our waitress brought our check as soon as we finished eating, even though we hadn't asked for it. She came back a few mins later to see if it was ready, it wasn't. So when she came back a few mins later we paid. After paying she then told us that our table was needed for people who had a reservation at 8 and were waiting. We have NEVER at any place we've eaten, in ALL our 50 or so years been asked to leave. And it was interesting that they only asked after we paid our $200 bill. We've eaten here several times and this was definitely our LAST. Additionally, it was so loud in there it was like a cafeteria and we had to practically yell to hear each other, terrible atmosphere. Food is amazing though so it's really a shame.

Both the food and service were top notch! We had the Mac and Cheese with Fried Chicken and Chicken Shawarma for our main courses and both were excellent. We will definitely be back then next time we visit Lawrence.

Great food the service was really good, and the atmosphere was pleasant. I had the beef shawarma, my wife had the carne asada Humus.

I've had some amazing dishes and drinks out of this place. The atmosphere and staff are always very inviting! Great food! I highly recommend this place!!!!

The food was good but we made the mistake of arriving later in the evening. Several items, including some of the specials were sold out. Yes it could be argued that is our fault for arriving late, but disappointing nonetheless.

Great service- attentive but not annoying. The salad with Haloumi was excellent. Had a limeade drink in special and it was so refreshing. The locale is also decorated in a fun and eclectic manner.

Delicious food in a gorgeous old building. Weather permitting, sit on the beautiful patio. Loved so many things. Brussels!!!!! Artichokes!!! Beets!!! Fried chicken hummus!! Loved every dish! Cool drink menu and fabulous service. A gem off the beaten path of Mass St. But not far!

So yummy and the menu is always changing. One of the nicer places in Lawrence - if you're coming into town for a visit make sure to get reservations early. This place is always booked :)

I feel terrible that I did not even know this restaurant existed until last week. A friend suggested we dine here and I had no clue. At first I thought it was one of those trendy here-today-gone-tomorrow type restaurants. Imagine my surprise when I discovered it had been here for a few years. I am really behind the times! At any rate, I am glad I discovered this hidden gem. This place is not on the beaten path. It is located on a neighborhood street and tucked away into an area you would never think to look. The restaurant looks like it was once an old farmhouse which gives it a very quaint look and feel. There is definitely nothing modern about the decor. I was actually able to access this place through a small ally because of road construction. This is not a spacious venue, either. Old houses were smaller in size. There were three of us dining at a made-for-two table but it worked. The chairs were the type you see in an office or in a gymnasium for a community gathering and they did not slide well. No bother, just noticeable. I would suggest they invest in some chairs to match the decor. The food is very good. The menu is not very varied and there are only a few select items from which to choose. I enjoy that a lot more than having an extensive menu. Something about a long menu screams desperation and "not fresh". They offer food with interesting combinations, pairing spices and herbs in a unique way. I had the chicken shawarma and I customized it to make it not spicy. It was perfect! We also had the appetizer plate and it was delicious. There were a wide selection of foods on the sampler appetizer. It was delicious. Perfect start to a great meal. The service was great and our server was friendly. Food and venue both fabulous. Parking can be hit or miss because of the location but I promise once you find this restaurant, you will have a very memorable dining experience.

We had such a great time here. I have been wanting to go for a long time. I thought I had it built up in my head to much and that I would be disappointed. Nope. We made last minute late reservations on open table. (Thank Goodness we did) Had a small wait while the table was cleared. We ordered drinks. They had an amazing small selection for multiple spirits. Gin, tequila, vodka... to top of with beer and wine. We had grapefruit Gin fizz, which was perfect! I love when it's not sweet. It was fresh. I guess I never had Mediterranean food... just Greek and not they are not the same! Greek has cheese . I was putting them in the same category. Appetizers: mushroom something or other, hummus with chorizo, fried artichoke hearts on top of pickled jalapeños and carrots.(my favorite) they brought chopped up veggies for us and bread for the other people with us. Everything has a spice to it. But not a oh m g this is to spicy to eat. For dinner I had this steak served over a mushed fried potato topped with this jalapeños... chutney? Sauce? Jam? I'm still thinking about this dish. I want seconds! So good. Husband had the pork shoulder. Meat tasted a bit dry and served with a fennel salad, no dressing. But he loved it. Don't remember what the others got, chicken dishes. They both loved what they got. They are only open three days a week. Food is fresh. It's all real. And for the most part gluten free. It's very easy to see what is and isn't gluten free. We didn't have desert.

One of my favorite restaurants in Lawrence. The chimchuri is always a treat. Great shareable plates and tasty cocktails .

We carried out 7 items for a tapas dinner last night, they were all so flavorful and delicious. My family's only complaint was I just got one order of bacon wrapped dates. Their online ordering was easy and pick-up was fast and easy. We will definitely do it again soon!

It's really good. Yummy. Good. Great. Fresh. Delicious. Good. Yummy. Nice. Excellent. And wonderful.

What a terrific restaurant!! I only wish it was in San Antonio. We would be regular diners! This restaurant is in a historical building and is just adorable in and out! There were three couples in our party and we were celebrating one couple's anniversary and one other person's birthday. To our delight, they bring complimentary glasses of champagne so we can toast each other prior to ordering. Fun! And a real treat! The food, however, is the real star of this show. The other two couples we were with had eaten here often so they knew what to order. The veggies are out of this world. I can't remember exactly but I think we got 4 or 5 vegetable plates and an entree. We ate family style and had plenty of food. All of the food was delicious - beautifully prepared. I really loved the brussel sprouts. Service was excellent. If you are ever in Lawrence on the weekend, make reservations for great a meal. Check out their website for historical information and note that they are only open on the weekends.

This place is a real Lawrence Gem. The food is some of the favorite in the city. Lots of Mediterranean-inspired dishes with creative twists. The sauces, like the shug, is soooo good. We have only gotten carry out, but I can't wait to dine in as the patio looks lovely. I wish the hours were not so limited, but when they are open, this is one of my favorite date night choices!

THE cutest place with fresh mint growing right next our table that was then picked to put into our mojitos. Presentation was great and food was good, but not stellar. I would definitely come again for drinks and appetizers because the ambience is so nice but would probably skip the pricey entrees.

So glad they are open again inside! We love coming here as the food and service are excellent. Love the building and inside atmosphere as well. We ordered the mezze platter and fried cauliflower, excellent. We also ordered the crab cakes and shrimp mujadara. Crab cakes were good not great but still loved the whole experience and it was packed. Highly recommend coming!

Husband treated me to a birthday dinner at Culinaria with friends. Only 1 of the 4 had been to Culinaria before. It was so great. Super cute environment. Fun, bright, quirky and unique. Great, friendly service from the hostess to our server. We had a range of cocktails (Martinis, Manhattans, etc) and appetizers (fried cauliflower, artichokes and the mezze platter so we could try 'all the things'). We all ordered different entrees (pork, shrimp and chicken) and all of it was so so good. Was a great experience and everyone enjoyed themselves. Such a cute and truly unique place. PS you can bring your own wine and they will open for a small corkage fee).

Every dish was well made and tasted delicious. Staff is friendly and the place is well decorated! It feels cozy so it is a great place to relax. We will definitely come back.

Fantastic food. Diverse menu! The drink menu is wonderful. We had the Jerusalem hummus it was amazing. The bread as well -pita. I had the steak which is richly and deliciously seasoned! Highly recommended!

We LOVE the food and drive from KC just for dinner here with our family. Our tip is to order tons of small plates and skip an entree- shared plates are amazing. We recommend and send people here all the time. However, very disappointed in the reservation/scheduling. TWICE since reopening we have been asked to give up our table for the next group coming in. The last time we still had food on the table and drinks in our glasses. In all my years of dining out I have never been asked to give up a table - this felt very targeted as we are a group of women chatting and eating, there were other tables around us that were not asked to leave with the same size tables and fewer people- in fact we had planned on ordering both another round of drinks and additional food. Please get your scheduling worked out.

Food was SO GOOD! Love that it's out of the way, amazing vibe. Absolutely going back!

I have been here twice now and would say it is my favorite place in Lawrence to eat. It is a local owned place that seems to care about you and the food. It is the best hidden gem in town. I could talk about all the things to try, but the list would be the entire menu. If you want to try a variety, get the Mezze plater appetizer, it is great. I live this type of food and get a craving for it. I am currently in Saudi Arabia on business am enjoying eating this type of food every day. It is good to make reservations because it does get very crowded.