Reserve now:
Café Ba-Ba-ReebaReservations
Restaurant Reviews List >
Chicago / Illinois Restaurant Reviews >
Chicago Restaurant Reviews >
Lincoln Park Restaurant Reviews >
Tapas / Small Plates Restaurant Reviews
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba Reviews List
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! is a premier Spanish tapas restaurant located in Chicago. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! is known for Tapas, the hot & cold appetizers of Spain; Paella, a typical Valencian rice dish served with vegetables and meat or seafood; and Sangria, Spain’s famous wine “fiesta” drink made from fruit, wine and liquors. Cafe Ba Ba Reeba! is owned by Chef Gabino Sotelino and Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises.
See more Café Ba-Ba-Reeba details
479 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Rating Breakdown 479 reviews
5 stars
(230)
4 stars
(195)
3 stars
(45)
2 stars
(7)
1 star
(2)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- good for groups(301)
- fit for foodies(260)
- neighborhood gem(251)
- hot spot(184)
- special occasion(180)
- romantic(96)
Café Ba-Ba-Reeba Reviews List
Review 1 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Father's Day Tapas
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I had been her 3 times before and simply sat at the bar and enjoyed dinner and drinks. My father was visiting for the holiday and I thought it the perfect place! I had made a reservation, we arrived 30 min early and they were able to seat us immediately - awesome! As for dinner, The tapas came out quite a bit slower than usual, but once we finally got the second round and the restaurant quieted down things got faster. I'd say we had 12 tapas plates for the Four of us, everyone was full but not stuffed, perfect. Sadly the temperature of the food was not good!! Perhaps things were sitting in the window because of the high volume? 9 out of 12 things were barely warm, including our shrimp and croquettes and Chicken Skewers :("
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Consistently good
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I have been to Ba-Ba-Reeba many times and it's always fantastic. We went for brunch this time and it's delicious. The bloody mary bar will keep me coming back!"
Dined on 6/16/2013
2008
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
DePaul Graduation Weekend Outing
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were at DePaul's Graduation weekend and had reservations at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba. This had always been our restaurant to go to when visiting our son during his 4 years at DePaul. We were able to sit back, relax and enjoy the endless varieties of Tapas, Sangria and Drinks. Our family was able to enjoy each other's company and reminise about our Son's college adventure. Thank you Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba. We will be back every time we visit our son as he is staying in Chicago and now calls it home."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Food lacks luster
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Used to love this place. Now food is not as good."
Dined on 6/15/2013
2010
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"drinks are tasty! food is slightly over priced. Had big hype but wasn't impressed alot of use of the same ingredients throughout the menu"
Dined on 6/14/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and service. We were there for 4 hours catching up with friends and never felt rushed to clear the table."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2013
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great service!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had to make a theatre curtain so asked to eat in an hour. Had a super tasty and satisfying meal with refreshing sangria."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Lettucentertain you Group has wonderful restaurants!"
Dined on 6/05/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
would definitely return!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was great! We loved trying all the different dishes. The sangria was tasty too, we went through a few pitchers. Everyone was very friendly however it was sometimes a little slow grabbing our waiter's attention. But I would still definitely recommend it to everyone!"
Dined on 6/11/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Tapas on the North side of Chicago
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"If you like Spanish tapas, you will love Cafe Ba Ba Reeba. The small plates of food come either hot or cold, and for individual, or enough to share with others. The roasted asparagus and meatballs are favorites. You will never leave this restaurant feeling hungry. It has been a favorite for over 15 years and will remain on our favorites list when visiting Chicago."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Another great time at Ba Ba Reeba
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Ba Ba Reeba is always a fun time. The service was great and the food was better. Lots of great choices on the menu and the food comes out quick. We got the fried calamari, goat cheese and marinara (top seller, very delicious), and the short ribs and washed it all down with a half pitcher of sangria."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best bacon-wrapped dates in town
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My husband and I went two weekends in a row for our favorite dishes: Bacon-wrapped dates, deviled eggs, garlic shrimp, and steak with blue cheese. It's always chaotic inside, kind of cramped, and don't bother coming without a reservation. That said, it's so full because the food is so delicious."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: good for groups
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always the best!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I LOVE Ba Ba Reeba, it always guarantees a good time!"
Dined on 5/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Tapas for all!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My girlfriends and I went out for a birthday celebration and really enjoyed our time at Cafe Ba Ba Reeba! Our waiter was attentive, friendly and brought us FIVE desserts with three candles. We felt very special."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great place
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Good food, good service, good atmosphere."
Dined on 5/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Reservations
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The only issue we really had was we weren't seated till almost 8:45pm when we had 8pm reservations. It was fine we were at the bar talking."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great brunch and bloody bar
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Always a great brunch, our usual bartender wasn't there Saturday, but we did okay."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Love them all!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My boyfriend and I love this place. We have dined here several times and we always leave satisfied. No matter what item you choose off the menu, you can't go wrong. Everything is delicious in its own genre (poultry, seafood, beef, etc.) It's a great place to dine for two and for big groups. I myself have brought friends here after work for dinner and they loved it. I like to dine in the patio area during the summer, which is usually first come first serve. So if it's available, definitely be seated out there. Food is delicious, service is great, and I always love the energy. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a variety of delicious flavors!"
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious!!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This place is a really great tapas restaurant. I felt they had a wider range of options than Cafe Iberico. The food was excellent and the ambiance was great."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, scenic view, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Still a GO TO Place with great food
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Café Ba-Ba-Reeba never disappoints and is more reasonably priced even with their reputation and location compared to others in the area and with similar fare."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Food and Service need improvement
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food portions are smaller, the taste is awful and the service is not great. Our waiters did not know the menu very well and did not know the drinks at all. We asked for a martini and she immediately said it was not available. I explain I have been coming here for years and I know that they serve this martini. She put in the order and came back with my martini that she had claimed they don't serve. Also, never even told us the specials and when asked she rolled eyes and said I wasn't sure if you wanted any of the specials. Awful Birthday with the service."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great time
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I always enjoy eating here. I've never been disappointed. Crowd is always different from all walks of life. Great place for sangria and date night."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Do not honor reservations
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"7:30 reservations were not honored. We were not seated until just after 8....and were quoted 5 minutes when we checked in with the host stand. The manager came by to apologize, but I would have expected a little more than that. It's obvious that you have enough business where you don't have to conduct proper service recovery. I will think twice next time when making dinner reservations here."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Very nice selection of reasonably priced food."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
FAVORITE.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We visit Chicago every few months or so. We come here every single time. We order the same things every single time. Should we perhaps venture out and try the paella at some point? Probably. It looks amazing but probably too much food for two girls. We love this place. Brunch and dinner. No regrets. Except one: We can't take the leftovers to-go because barhopping with some leftover food is a bit of a pain.
Must haves: Sangria. Patatas bravas. Riojas short ribs. Meatballs. Shrimp with garlic, olive oil and red chili flakes. Empanadas.
Amaze. Really."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Tapas done to perfection.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great after work or for dinner. Restaurant was live and vibrant. Energetic more than romantic. The food was terrific! They recommend two tapas per person and was about right. If you're going the paella route, the portion was huge! The serving size was a minimum of two persons. Terrific on all accounts! Will be going back for sure next time I'm in Chicago."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Girls day out!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Myself and 3 friends visited last Saturday and none of us had ever dined here before. We went for lunch, the Sangria is very good we had two different kinds (really liked the peach). The prices are reasonable and we shared all of our plates. The waitress suggested we get 2 to 3 plates per person but there was 4 of us and we had about 5 plates and that was good enough. The lamb meatballs were good. Since we had never been there the waitress also brought us 3 desserts on the house, the caramelized banana one was fantastic! Would definitely go back, the only bummer was that there was a 40 min wait for outside even though we had reservations. So we had to sit inside on such a nice day outside!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Good brunch place for groups
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"A group of us went here to celebrate the mommies-to-be in our group of friends, and Cafe Ba-Be-Reeba gave us exactly what we were looking for- a brunch place with good food where we could sit and talk at our leisure. The menu was a little limited and the bacon was a little fatty for my taste, but everything else was great (especially the service). I would highly recommend Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba for large groups."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food and service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We ordered a wide variety of tapas for a group of three and all of them were brought to the table extremely fast despite the restaurant being completely packed. The food was very good and the sangria was great as well.
My only complaint was that the tables are so close together and the table behind us was one of those obnoxious tables that thinks they are the only ones in the restaurant so we could barely have a conversation. That's not the restaurants fault tho, just rude diners."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
consistent!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"been going to cafe baba for many years and food quality and service spot on for a great experience."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and Great service. Perfect spot for many different occasions- groups of 2, big groups, date night (although can be a little noisy), girls night out, anything really. Favorites: spicy potatoes, dates, beef skewers and any of the white sangrias."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food and really fun!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"What can I say? SANGRIA!! The special sangria was blood orange. It was great. We were in a group of 4 and split two pitchers. One blood orange, one raspberry. Both were delicious! Tapas is always a fun way to eat with a group. We ordered lots of things off the menu, and were not disappointed with a single choice. Our server, Daniel, was fantastic, and made lots of wonderful suggestions off the menu. He knew the menu very will, and that is key with tapas dining. Definately go to this place."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Favorite Retaurant in Chicago
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I have been a regular Ba Ba Reeba goer since I moved out here. It's my all time favorite restaurant. The food is so creative and delicious, it's not too filling, and the prices are very reasonable. If you go any day between 4 and 6pm a small list of tapas are only 3 dollars, but that small list includes all of my favorites! I would recommend this restaurant to anyone except for small children since the menu and ambiance is fit for young adults and up."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Mom's Day
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Mom's Day was a hit when I took my family to Cafe Babareeba on Sunday. Both parents loved trying tapas and sangria. My mom couldnt' rave enough about the food and drinks. All the kids (in our 20s) loved the experience too."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
great food and experience
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I always have a great time here and enjoy the food a lot. The items on the menu are great for small and large groups to share. Good drinks like Sangria make it a perfect spot for a date or just a fun group experience."
Dined on 4/10/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Still my favorite spot
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I love Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba, and I come all the time. It never disappoints. This time I went with my boyfriend for his birthday, and we chose to sit in the bar. I prefer the bar, though I've dined in the restaurant on a couple of occasions. The bacon wrapped dates, spicy potatoes and goat cheese in marinara sauce are all musts. This time we tried the cheese plate and fried green peppers too. The happy hour/late night bar special should not be missed."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
not good
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a party of 6. The service was not up to par. Very inexperienced waiter who seems like she received little to no training. Food was very bland and small portions.. not worth the $. Tried the Sangria, nothing special. Try this place if you still want to leave the restaurant hungry.. wait for your food for over 45 minutes... and get bad service.
This review should not be overlooked.. TRUST ME."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Give Tapas a Try
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My mom and I went here before seeing a show at the Apollo Theatre. We were trying tapas for the first time and found it a perfect meal before a show. The service was quick and the food light. The waiter was very helpful explaining how to order tapas to create a nice little meal. We had the goat cheese croquettes - warm and creamy, with delicate breading. We also a spread for bread, a meat/poultry tapas apiece, and a spinach/manchego filled mushroom (my favorite). The only disappointment was garlic potato salad, which, although tasty, was ordinary and did not seem to fit in with the rest of the meal. Unaccountably, there was also a huge amount of it. There are red and white sangrias by the glass to choose from - sweet and sweeter."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Nice overall but...
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food is generally pretty tasty and authentic but paella oven was being repaired so none available on night we were there. Also, no bacalao!! Other items were okay. Compared to other tapas restaurants, this is middle of the road. I'm sure Chicago can do better."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Wonderful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Went to try it out because I heard such great things. Every small plate we ordered was delicious. The spicy potatoes were my favorite with a tomato aioli dipping sauce. We ordered a pitcher of the passionfruit sangria which was great as well!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Amazing on previous visits
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I booked a table for my wife's birthday. We have come here in the past with wonderful results. The food and atmosphere is always amazing, but when we reserved the table, and when we checked in, we were not told that there was renovation happening and they couldn't make paella. We always come for the paella, and were disappointed that we couldn't order it. The waitress was very friendly and helpful."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best Tapas
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Best tapas. Even better than what we had in Madrid and Barcelona. We eat here every time we come to Chicago. You won't be disappointed. Make sure to try spicy potatoes and dates wrapped in bacon. But in any case, you will be delighted by the quality of the food."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Sensational service from our waiter, but I don't even recall his name. He swung into high gear when he learned that my guest had gluten sensitivity and took great care of us. Thanks to management for having a plan-B ready for such a situation."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
LOVE this place!!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This is hands down my favorite restaurant in the city! Everything is great from drinks to food to service."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very Good, Fun Meal!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was our first time here. Had a great time!! The food was really good (you MUST have the chorizo wrapped dates!!) Service was ok - a tad on the slow side, but the food more than made up for that! I'm not a wine drinker, but their liquor-infused sangria was terrific!! We had the black raspberry flavored. Overall, a very good experience!!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: good for groups
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
First time dining at Cafe
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"First time dining at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba and everything was just as I read, delicious!"
Dined on 04/28/2013
2010
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
As Always, The food and
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"As Always,
The food and service were great!! I love coming here"
Dined on 04/28/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We of course just went shared
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We of course just went shared a bunch of things..the asparagus-great! goat cheese and tomato sauce-the best! gazpacho-great! grilled peppers-great! meatballs-just ok not my favorite. ham and chicken croquets-not good, you could skip those. The meatballs-you can skip those too. Not the best. Shrimp with garlic-awesome! Moorish chicken-excellent. For desert we got the churros-which were my favorite! The marcona almond butter-amazing! And the apple empanada-which was pretty good. We got the blood orange sangria. We left really happy!"
Dined on 04/28/2013
2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
yummy, friendly, cramped tables
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Busy Saturday night, quite hectic and loud atmosphere. Staff was friendly but were so busy they weren't able to take the time to make it an enjoyable dining experience. It was sort of hit and run style service with the waiter running over as he could to get the next order and many random people bringing the orders and drinks and removing plates. Tables were too small to hold much if anything. We had a pitcher if sangria and were constantly shuffling and stacking to try and get things to fit. Overall people were great, food fantastic, but experience a C at best. Wasn't able to relax and enjoy... Had to eat one dish at a time and wait for the next due to laçk of space. I'd come back at an of time during the week.... Must have a reso!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 50 for Café Ba-Ba-Reeba
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This place is excellent. The
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This place is excellent. The food is spot on every time! We did not receive our appetizer timely, which was fine since the restaurant is so energetic and we were enjoying wine; however, the waitress gave us the appetizer and dessert complimentary to make up for the appetizer being late."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.