Bar Clavel
Bar Clavel - what can I say, other than SALUD!
scroll down to check out my favorite menu items!
Let me begin by explaining my intense love of hidden gems - some of my favorite places are in obscure locations, hidden away, and this is definitely one of them (although everyone thats anyone knows how impeccable Bar Clavel is!)
From the moment you walk through the plain and inconspicuous industrial metal door, you are taken aback by a small yet intricately decorated and comforting atmosphere - as if you were transported to a Mezcaleria in a small rural Sinaloan village.
Bar Clavel specializes in handmade (did you catch that?!) corn & flour tortillas as well as a plethora of fermented concoctions, delectable meats and of course, MEZCAL!
The brains behind the deliciousness: Carlos Raba, co-founder & chef, was raised by his mother and aunts in Sinaloa - learning the recipes and traditions of Sinaloan cooking. Lane Harlan, Founder, is the creative director of Bar Clavel as well as W.C. Harlen (an obvious after dinner drink spot! Blog post about this discreet cocktail joint coming soon!)
Not only does Bar Clavel mostly source locally, they also support the local Baltimore Entrepreuner culture through partnerships with small businesses in the area (see here for a list of local partnerships)
Delicious food CHECK
Amazing cocktails CHECK
Locally sourced & locally supportive CHECK
Atmosphere CHECK
Seems like they do it all right? RIGHT!
Left:
Atun con piña - Ahi tuna, avocado, pineapple, serrano, basil, red onion & black sesame on a fresh tostada
Middle:
Cochinita Pibil - Our specialty of tender pork in bitter oranges & achiote;
Carnitas con Salsa Verde - Pork simmered in it's own fat served with warm salsa verde y crispy chicharrones
Barbacoa de Borrego - Lamb in mexican coffee, negra modelo, & spices
Right:
Queso Fundido - Bubbling hot Queso Chihuahua, chorizo, guacamole y frijoles puercos con totopos.
If you haven't gone - you should! I'd love to hear about your experience there!
SALUD!