Allora - Baltimore

Pasta was not al dente, but really undertook. sauce wasn't great either. but atmosphere is very beautiful.

After a memorable first impression, I'm convinced that Allora is the hottest cafe-on-the-rise in Baltimore. Despite the current construction next door, you are transported to a tranquil heart of Rome hideaway as soon as you step inside. Sunlight streaming through the front bay window, the cafe sets a tone as a place for conversation and creativity with artwork thoughtfully displayed along the main wall. The staff is warm, welcoming and attentive, providing menu insights and more. I ordered the recently revamped avocado toast (now with tomatoes! and a currant scone to go. Conscious of the large order ahead of me, I was offered a glass of water while I took a seat to wait. The few extra minutes were worth it! The scone has that ideal crumbling buttery texture, melting in your mouth with just a hint of sweetness from the base dough. The currants add a chewy, burst of richer baking-spices-like sweetness. Topped with fresh, juicy thick tomato slices, the avocado toast is one to bookmark! The avocado was creamy, ripe and ample to evenly cover the fresh, flavorful toast underneath with just the right level of crusty crunch. The crushed pepper and sea salt, with an extra peppery crunch from the micro greens, rounds out a delicious bite. Look forward to trying more of the menu and espresso offerings, Allora!

My husband and I had dinner at Allora a few weekends ago and we absolutely loved it! Every single dish was delicious and despite how full we were towards the end, we wanted more! The service was impeccable! They didn’t miss a beat, and the timing between courses was exactly how it should be done. Other restaurants should take notes! Live music was also a lovely treat. Super cute place all around. Can’t wait to come back for the tasting menu dinners!

Today may have been an off day to visit. The barista, which I assume to be the owner (or an owner), was neither pleasant or helpful. Perhaps he had to work unexpectedly. I can relate, but not to the impatience. Owning a business does have its challenges. A customer trying a place out for the first time shouldn't be considered one of them. I would give a 4.5 star review, if I had better interactions at the counter.

A member of our group tested positive for COVID-19 on the morning of our dinner reservation. I called Allora right away to inform them of the situation and canceled our reservation out of consideration for their staff and other guests. To my surprise and disappointment, I later received an email stating that I had been charged $100 for canceling. I reached out and spoke to co-owner David, who, without any apology, informed me that this was their policy and that the fee would not be refunded. This reaction is very disappointing, especially considering that the local community is trying to support small, emerging restaurants during these challenging times.