We had to round the block a few times to find it but, we eventually got there. Love how they're tucked away off 9th st.
Everyone was so nice, from the moment we came in all the way thru service. They were so busy, I'm glad we were able to make a reservation thru Open Table.
Every plate we had was delectable. We started with the burnt eggplant and mushroom ragout - both served with crustini. I felt I could make a meal of the eggplant - so good!
I then had the crispy chicken with falafel waffle and my husband had the braised pork shoulder. The chicken dish was all gluten free, which, I really appreciated. The chicken was super crunchy and worked well with the harissa honey and picked onions. The falafel waffle was neat in concept but seemed a bit heavy. It had good flavor tho. The braised pork had wonderful flavor and just melted in our mouths. The fennel greens worked perfectly alongside it.
My husband also had a Mojito and the vodka/orange cream soda cocktails. He really enjoyed them. I had a white Russian, which they got on point.
If there was anything to complain about, was the noise. The dining room is all open, in a space that's not very big and it just seemed like the longer we were there, the louder everyone talked. I got tired of feeling like I had to yell to talk to my husband. So, if you're in the mood for a quiet setting, this may not be thr place. Maybe it would be different on a different evening, not sure.
But, overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the food, lively ambiance, staff & service. We'll be back, for sure!
My friends and I went here to watch the last part of the KU game last Saturday, and I was floored by the deliciousness of their food. Holy cow, y'all gotta try those chicken and waffles. I couldn't get enough. Also, their drinks (mixed by Reagan that night, who was totally awesome, I might add) have a unique flavor and perfect blend. I am so glad I now know of this place, but I'm also bummed that I missed out on it for so long! I highly recommend.
We had the vegan prie fixe menu during Lawrence Restaurant Week. We had a little snafu with the reservation but it all ended up working out fine. The food was spectacular. Easily one of the best vegan meals I've eaten in my life.
Pork shoulder, beef stew, and an Amazing chicken dish! O..... and like 3 or 4 shareables and a cocktail or glass of wine each! The night was perfection! The food, service, atmosphere and overall experience... priceless!
As a venue manager, I can highly recommend Culinaria for their off-site catering services. They are extremely professional, they bring qualified and efficient staff, and their food is always interesting and fabulous. We always hear so many food compliments when they cater an event! They specialize in full-service for your events, so that you have time to enjoy your guests. They are also great at making wine suggestions to go with your menu.
Went on a Friday night and although they were jampacked and we had no reservation, they accommodated us well at the bar. Wine selection was excellent. Seasonal vodka cocktail was very well balanced. Tried multiple small plates and I can't even find a single thing to nitpick about. The roasted carrots with harissa, feta, and olives might be the tastiest preparation of a root vegetable I've ever had. The papatas bravas and mushroom ragout were also stellar. My wife and I shared the beef cheek special which was perfectly put together. I would highly recommend Culinaria for a date night, cocktails after work (the happy hour menu looked amazing), or if you had friends in from out of town.
Wonderful vibe the instant I walked in the door. A warm and welcoming staff, very professional. Spotless kitchen as well as the rest of the area. Beautiful building and a night of great food and acceptance. I will be back! Thank you Culinaria you are indeed 5 star all the way. <3
Wonderful place - cozy but with great space. The food and drinks were awesome - the Patatas Bravas were our favorite - and we'll be going back for more very soon.
I just had the pleasure of getting to experience Culinary! What a beautiful, elegant, and delicious place. The owners and staff are the kindest and most generous people, who felt more like old friends or family than a "business." The ability to hold a formal function or a community function in such a lovely place is a blessing, especially with their dedication to creating a safe and welcoming space for all facets of our community. I would encourage anyone who need a gathering place and/or caterer in Lawrence, or as far away as Kansas City, to check out Culinaria! Great food, great place, great people, and what a great value! LOVE IT! (I will be referring to friends and collogues!)
Culinaria did an excellent job at Rebecca and Ryan's wedding on September 24th. The staff was professional, the food was presented nicely and it tasted wonderful. Many guests commented on the flavor and presentation. Thank you for making the day perfect.
Culinaria catered our February wedding and we couldn't have been happier with them. We gave them a general idea of the appetizers and meal that we wanted, and they incorporated seasonal ingredients to make the dishes unique and delicious. Their restaurant is also excellent and has the perfect atmosphere for a romantic date night.
We have lived in Lawrence for eighteen years, and Culinaria has been one of our best dining experiences during this time. The food and service are excellent, the menu is imaginative and varied, and the setting is cozy. We look forward to our next visit!
This place is amazing!!! Food delicious, drinks spot on, atmosphere delightful. Such an awesome addition to the Lawrence culinary landscape ���
We were delighted to discover Culinaria during Final Friday. The food is terrifiic, the space, beautiful. I loved the brussel sprouts, wanted to take them all home with me.
We had an outstanding Sicilian feast! Especially wonderful: the seafood couscous, beef ragout, and fennel salad with blood oranges. Creative cocktails and friendly, attentive service too. Will definitely be going again!
Great food and fantastic service. We also had a chance to meet the chef and thank them for the delicious food. Very humble person. :)
What a beautiful space! Delicious food, wine, and lovely atmosphere. Everyone was so helpful and friendly, described the options well and made us feel very welcome. Enjoyed it with a friend, and will return �
We recently tried this place when our daughter and family were visiting from the east coast. Food and service were both excellent. Family style Mediterranean food. Oh so good.
I thoroughly enjoyed the wonderful food, lovely ambiance, and Rose's excellent, friendly service. I will definitely be back.
My first visit here was during Restaurant Week (Feb 18-27, 2022). I tried their chicken special and it did NOT disappoint! The Mediterranean flavors melded together so well and the chicken was fall apart tender. They do have outdoor seating during warm months. The inside is a classic limestone and concrete finish with cute decor. Great place for date night or just catching up with a friend. I would recommend anyone give this place a try!
Miguel Cadena (Lago Vista Grill)
+5
I've had some amazing dishes and drinks out of this place. The atmosphere and staff are always very inviting. Creative cocktails menu that suits my palet. Usually there menu has at least one dish that just screams at me to order it. Last i was there i didn't get that feeling from first glance at the menu. Was worried when I ordered and just hurriedly picked what sounded best at the moment. I went with their chicken shawarma. I was blown away even more than normal. If your a well done meat and potatoes kinda guy this place may not be for your. It's flavorful, heavy on the veggies and quality. I highly recommend.
This is one of my husband and my favorite places! Everything is wonderful. We keep coming back every time we’re in town. Food, drinks, atmosphere! Highly recommend.
![5]( "Recensione")
Culinaria is high end dining made accessible to stubborn Midwesterners. Ambiance is simultaneously that of a high-end restaurant and a hole in the wall, just on the verge of spilling over into hipster territory. The small menu and higher prices are what one would expect from a fancy restaurant.
Culinaria does not disappoint when it comes to food quality. The pork shoulder was delightful, and my friend who ordered coq au vin did not stop saying "oh my God" throughout the entire meal. Smores bread pudding was even better than it sounds.
The two vegetarians I ate with did not have any trouble finding appetizing meals on their menu, I was even jealous of my sister's brussel sprouts.
What really surprised me were the portion sizes. Unlike other restaurants in a similar price range, Culinaria provides enough protein to satisfy a deeply Midwestern soul. Culinaria bridges the gap between those who want a unique dining experience and those who would rather stick with their routine. I wouldn't hesitate to bring my meat-and-potatoes dad to this restaurant, even though it dazzled my more adventurous palate. I look forward to meeting friends and family at Culinaria again, knowing that everyone will be comfortable with their experience. I return, I already know I'll be ordering a sangria and brussel sprouts.
This is an exquisitely delicious venue.
It's also a little bit pricey. If I could find a babysitter, I'd go on a date here.
Love this place!
We’ve been 3 times and each time it has never disappointed.
From the platter that we got as an appetizer to our entrees to desert. It’s all delicious.
It does get pretty loud inside so if you’re looking for quiet this won’t be the place for you.
Love all the candles and decorations.
Makes it feel romantic:)
Everyone has been very nice and accommodating which is a plus for me.
It’s a bit pricey IMO which is why we go for a birthday or an anniversary. It’s a special treat for us. That way I don’t feel so bad spending $80 bucks for two.
We ate here last night and were totally blown away by the quality + craftsmanship. Our waiter Erica was so friendly + kind the entire night. The location was serene and intimate; perfect for date night. We felt like we were in another world! Try the spiced beef hummus - you will be thinking about it for the next few weeks guaranteed. The flavor profiles + quality of ingredients for the dishes we tried were unlike any other restaurant in town (or even KC for that matter!). A must try for locals.
An error has occurred! Please try again in a few minutes