Mas - Charlottesville

I absolutely love Mas! I've only visited a few times, but each experience has been fantastic. Last night, my husband and I went to celebrate our anniversary, an... read more I absolutely love Mas! I've only visited a few times, but each experience has been fantastic. Last night, my husband and I went to celebrate our anniversary, and we had the best time. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive to all COVID safety measures. The food and cocktails were delicious. We'll definitely be returning! It’s definitely worth the 45-minute drive. I apologize for the poor quality of my photo— it really doesn't do the food justice.

Since the pandemic, they've started taking reservations, which I really appreciate. I’ve waited over an hour for a table before because it’s so worth it, but I’... read more Since the pandemic, they've started taking reservations, which I really appreciate. I’ve waited over an hour for a table before because it’s so worth it, but I’m glad I don’t have to do that now. Just be aware that reservations fill up quickly, so plan ahead. Some of my go-to dishes include the carne asada (racion portion), patatas bravas (tapas portion), artichoke dip, and bacon-wrapped dates. On my most recent visit, my family also tried the paella and cheesecake, both of which were delicious. If you're not feeling too adventurous, I suggest ordering a tapas portion of a few different dishes and then getting more of the ones you enjoy. The price is the same for two tapas portions as it is for one racion portion. Beyond the fantastic food, the service is always incredibly friendly. Although it’s a bustling restaurant, the service is efficient, and you generally receive your food in batches at roughly the same time. There is a small parking lot available, but it's limited. However, there’s plenty of street parking nearby, which is a plus. Plus, Mas is conveniently located right by the "I Love Charlottesville A Lot" sign, which is worth seeing. I highly recommend giving Mas a try. It's truly one of the gems of Charlottesville!

There's a reason why this place is always so busy! It's a whole new experience since they started taking reservations. Unfortunately, we didn't have one this ti... read more There's a reason why this place is always so busy! It's a whole new experience since they started taking reservations. Unfortunately, we didn't have one this time, so we ended up sitting at the bar, which was a bit too crowded for a relaxed conversation. However, I have no complaints about the food! The patatas bravas are always a highlight for us, and the Rioja wine is excellent. I wasn't as fond of the sangria, though. There's nothing quite like the bread and olive oil, especially that wonderful Spanish olive oil. I wasn't thrilled with the albondigas (meatballs)—based on the menu description, I didn't expect them to come as meatballs. On the other hand, the halloumi cheese was unique and delicious, with a surprisingly slightly sweet sauce. The shrimp was fantastic, and the sauce complemented it perfectly. Overall, we had another incredible meal at Mas!

Would leave less than one star if possible. I have never gotten up and left a meal before even eating but did so here after being treated extremely rudely by th... read more Would leave less than one star if possible. I have never gotten up and left a meal before even eating but did so here after being treated extremely rudely by the staff. Strongly encourage those thinking of dining here to reconsider. Charlottesville hasa great deal of wonderful restaurants with amazing staff. Mas is not one of them. I suspect there must have been a recent changein management or ownership one that hopefully does not last long.

Beautifully renovated building with indoor and outdoor seating. The staff was pleasant and professional and helpful in ordering. Expertly made entrees that rang... read more Beautifully renovated building with indoor and outdoor seating. The staff was pleasant and professional and helpful in ordering. Expertly made entrees that ranged from surf to turf to garden. Not to mention the bacon wrapped dates that we had as anappetizer. This is a must stop location if you're visiting Charlottesville, and a wonderful treat for us who live here. Bonappetit.