Reserve now:
ElaReservations
Restaurant Reviews List >
Philadelphia / New Jersey Suburbs Restaurant Reviews >
Philadelphia Restaurant Reviews >
Queen Village Restaurant Reviews >
Contemporary American Restaurant Reviews
Ela Reviews List
Ela
In November of 2011, chefs Jason Cichonski and Chip Roman partnered to open Ela, an inventive new American bar and restaurant in Philadelphia’s Queen Village neighborhood. Ela showcases 27-year-old Cichonski, who Philadelphia Inquirer’s Craig LaBan called “one of our most exciting young chefs,” is combining an approachable menu of innovative dishes with an extensive wine and craft beer program and inspired cocktail list in a rustic-modern setting.
“Creatively, it’s wonderfully freeing to prepare food that doesn’t fit into any one genre or style; this is seasonal food, using exceptional ingredients, prepared perfectly,” says Chef Cichonski. Ela is a serious-yet-comfortable restaurant with a menu that that changes frequently throughout the year, to reflect the latest offerings.
See more Ela details
“Creatively, it’s wonderfully freeing to prepare food that doesn’t fit into any one genre or style; this is seasonal food, using exceptional ingredients, prepared perfectly,” says Chef Cichonski. Ela is a serious-yet-comfortable restaurant with a menu that that changes frequently throughout the year, to reflect the latest offerings.
167 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Rating Breakdown 167 reviews
5 stars
(79)
4 stars
(69)
3 stars
(12)
2 stars
(6)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(135)
- neighborhood gem(108)
- special occasion(68)
- romantic(45)
- hot spot(41)
- good for groups(31)
Ela Reviews List
Review 1 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ela
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This restuarant has great food. Great service. An excellent menu and a very accomadating staff. Love the quiet but cozy environment."
Dined on 6/08/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Wonderful food that is different than the usual. Attentive, knowledgeable servers."
Dined on 6/15/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for Ela
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Ela ?
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Our second visit . In future we will skip the entrees and focus on the amazing appetizers .
Now , our last meal was marred by a table who's baby SCREAMED through our dinner, start to finish . The poor kid was not enjoying it self. Why torture the child and the other diners?"
Now , our last meal was marred by a table who's baby SCREAMED through our dinner, start to finish . The poor kid was not enjoying it self. Why torture the child and the other diners?"
Dined on 6/07/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for Ela
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Too sweet!
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Plates were individually good but the cumulative effect of all the added sugar was terrible. Admittedly we did not have entrees but all the second bites were too sweet. The cocktails are great. Go for drinks at the bar but not for dinner."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Was Excellent!!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We went on a Tuesday for our 25th wedding anniversary with our children. The place was empty, except for 2 other tables so we received superb service by John. He gave good recommendations and a detailed explanation of each course, and when I ordered New Zealand white wine (which was not on the menu) he somehow got a special bottle from behind the bar! We knew Cichonski from Lacroix. His dishes as Ela are not as refined and not such an art work as it was at Lacroix, but they excellent value for money, taste great and we loved it. As did our teenagers!!!"
Dined on 5/28/2013
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 6 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great menu, great, friendly service and best kale salad (with killer mustard vinaigrette) I've had . Everything fresh and seasonal. I like Ela better than Blackfish."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food never disappoints
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Amazing food in a non-pretentious environment
Highly recommended"
Highly recommended"
Dined on 5/23/2013
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 8 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Pretty Close
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food at ELA is really, really good. The small plates are actually big enough to share nicely between three people! Everything is prepared and presented VERY well. The service needs to tighten up a little bit. They are a little too cool and causal for their own good. Not that the service was bad, it was that the level of service wasn't commensurate with the cuisine. Speaking of, make sure you save room for the cookie dough dessert, it really is worth it."
Dined on 5/23/2013
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 9 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ela
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fantastic! We hadn't been back this venue since it was "Judy's". Not only does it look great, but tHe food and service was fantastic. One of the best desserts ever...can't wait to return!"
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Second time at the restaurant and they exceeded my expectations. The tasting menu was fresh and flavorful. The foie gras was prepared perfectly and I'd rank another dish as one of my favorite bites of the year. Definitely recommend visiting Ela."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Excellent food and service. The restaurant is small and the tables close together so noise grows as it fills up. Our group of 5 were all pleased with the experience, especially the innovative food items."
Dined on 5/18/2013
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 Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Consistently outstanding
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Ela is my new go-to, and I'm torn between wanting it to succeed and not wanting to have trouble getting a reservation. Bravo."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
Share:
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Foodies delight but service ??
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Took my son to Ela for 18th birthday dinner - family of foodies. The menu was very creative, all our dishes were outstanding and inventive, nicely presented. I love the space and ambiance, the style is respectful of the prices and is creatively done. EVen the cocktail list is creative and delicious. I had a rum cocktail with lavender, rhubarb and lime....terrific. The only down side was the service. Our waitress seemed out of it, not invested in her customers having a lovely evening. The rest of the service was just OK. Only the guy who brought dessert seemed enthusiastic."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for Ela
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Excellent Food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Meager portions of delicious food. The menu is designed to offer a 3 course dining experience. With dessert, i had 4 courses but departed craving more. i declined accepting bread so leaving unsatisfied could be my own fault. Anytime i needed something (a fork, glass of wine, to find the restroom), i felt i was bothering the apathetic wait staff and it made me uncomfortable. The servers were aloof and not very friendly, even somber. For the ambience, seating was awful - close and crammed... and cumbersome - like an obstacle course. The food was outstanding - some of the best I've had. I will not be returning as I prefer fine dining in restaurants that offer a pleasant and memorable dining experience from food to ambience to service."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
-2points
0of 2voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent and inventive
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Amazing first couple of courses; simply amazing, unusual, well-made and delicious! The main course was very tasty and very well prepared, though I found them a little less adventurous than the rest of the menu, but in no way detracted from the experience."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The brunch was very tasty with fresh ingredients and beautifully presented. The menu was creative. The dining room was beautiful, light and let fresh air into the room. I would definitely return.
The one thing was that the sound acustics were not that great, however I would not skip this reataurant."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for lunch
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Mother's Day
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Thank you for making it a special day for my mother"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great, inventive, modern food!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This is my third visit to Ela within the past year, and I always leave happy. On this visit, we tried the 5- course tasting menu, which was very good. The space is attractive and warm/industrial, and the servers are friendly and attentive."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Surprise and delight.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Each dish served was an outstanding blend of flavors and textures in eye-pleasing presentations. Food portions are just the right size and a great value. Moves to the top of our list and could be a new favorite."
Dined on 5/07/2013
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 20 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We opted for the tasting menu and were not disappointed. Definitely the way to go!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Different and Good
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a nice dining experience at Ela and found its preparations to be different and, in some respects like the "pasta" made of scallops, daring. Serving sizes were small, but flavorable and fulling. The wine list is not extensive but there are ample by the glass choices. There is a small bar in the dining area and the back room faces an open kitchen."
Dined on 4/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ela is Stellar!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fantastic, creative, inventive! Stellar food! Wonderful service! We will be sure to be back again and again!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
adapted to vegans and non-vegan
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"adapted to vegans and non-vegan was great as well!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
2012
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 24 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food was excellent, especially
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was excellent, especially the baby octopus. I would have preferred to sauce my own oysters because most of the time I want nothing but oyster. The pork shank was also rich and delicious.
Service was a bit intrusive. My date said she felt like she was on a date with the waiter as well because he talked so much.
Would recommend."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I was absolutely thrilled
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I was absolutely thrilled with my brunch experience at Ela this past weekend. The food was fantastic (LOVE the complimentary sticky buns), the bloody marys were crazy (kimchi and beet bloodies... wha??), and the service was impeccable (thank Jess!). Will definitely be coming here again!"
Dined on 04/21/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for Ela
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We found the menu to be very
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We found the menu to be very limited and very small portions although very tasty.
We enjoyed the ambience and the service was excellent."
We enjoyed the ambience and the service was excellent."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ela is a small restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Ela is a small restaurant with really great food. If you love dishes that are creative and interesting, this is a place to go. Also, the service was exemplary - not intrusive, but extremely attentive. Yes, it is a little pricey, but it is worth it."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2006
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 28 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful restauarant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"One of the most creative restaurants in Philly. Excellent, intelligent food, beautifully prepared."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2011
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 29 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very interesting and well
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Very interesting and well prepared food and attentive service. Scallop noodles and cookie dough dessert were standouts as previously reported but everything we ate was delicious. Parking is a nightmare and valet parking might be nice to add."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food and ambiance were wonderful.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food and ambiance were wonderful. My reunion with dear old friends from abroad went on for hours without rushing from staff. I was glad to show off philly's finest dining The oysters scallop noodles and main courses superb. Focus grois. Amazing"
Dined on 04/04/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, 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.
Review 31 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very good creative food with
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Very good creative food with interesting and unique combinations of favors and textures. Yet it never felt forced or ridiculous like some places try to do. The food was excellent. Portions might have seemed small but not really. They were right sized for true foodies. I got one first and two seconds and skipped a third, and went with dessert and was happily full without being bloated. I found it to be not cheap not expensive but a good value for what I got. I will definitely go back whenever I am in Philly."
Dined on 04/03/2013
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 32 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent Brunch Two Easters
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"For the second year in a row my husband and I with several friends have gone to Ela for Easter Brunch. Both times was very enjoyable.
The drinks were very tasty and the wine by the glass very good. The waiter was helpful bringing different types of wine to taste before ordering. The food was unique and delicious. Will go back either for dinner or brunch."
The drinks were very tasty and the wine by the glass very good. The waiter was helpful bringing different types of wine to taste before ordering. The food was unique and delicious. Will go back either for dinner or brunch."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2009
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We had an amazing meal at
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had an amazing meal at Ela on March 31. The service was completely on point, the timing of the food was perfect and our server paid enough attention without being in the way. All of the food was great. The stand outs were the beets and radishes app, the scallop "noodles" and the both entries (salmon and the pork loin which was on special for the day). Would definately recommend again."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious food, amazing cocktails
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious food, amazing cocktails"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2010
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for Ela
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The service was great! However
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The service was great! However the food was inconsistent. While the oysters were briney and delicious the rest of the meal was less promising. There was a huge vein in the pulled pork which was such a turn off that we almost couldn't continue eating it. The baby octopus was tough and too fishy. the skate dish was very good. We'd give it another try but had higher hopes."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2010
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Love, love, love this restaurant!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Love, love, love this restaurant! Love the decor; lots of wood, exposed brick and metal but very warm and friendly. Love the service; knowledgeable, friendly but not hovering. LOVE the food! The kale salad is so light and fresh and tasty. The diver scallop noodles are to die for! Amazing knife skills to create the noodles from the scallops and they were served in a delicious bolognese sauce. And the skate was just incredible, perfectly cooked with crispy yucca. And the pumpkin pudding was a great exclamation point to a wonderful dining experience. If we lived in the neighborhood, my husband and I would be dropping in once a week to hang at the bar; enjoying a glass of wine,the kale salad and the diver scallop noodles."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Absolutely phenomenal spot.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Absolutely phenomenal spot. We came here with my family for a celebratory dinner, and everything - start to finish - was perfect. Delicious and creative cocktails, ideal portion sizes, incredibly creative flavors in every dish. Worth every penny!"
Dined on 03/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We had a wonderful brunch.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a wonderful brunch. Each dish was very creative. We love this place!"
Dined on 03/17/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I'll be thinking about the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I'll be thinking about the short rib for some time. A very memorable meal."
Dined on 03/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for Ela
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
We were a bit delayed getting
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were a bit delayed getting seated and once seated there was not alot of server attention. Great food. Terrific drinks. Bartender was very friendly and knowledgeable."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2011
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for Ela
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Must try it out!
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Every time I go to Ela, I'm blown away by Jason Cichonski's artfulness and inventiveness. This place is a must for anyone who really appreciates excellent food and complex artisanship."
Dined on 03/13/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
Share:
-5points
0of 5voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A little too whimsical with
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A little too whimsical with presentation. While I consider myself always willing to be surprised and inticed by unusualy presentation I found the the food over-complex which distracted from my dining experience. In addition the foos was somewhat oversalted."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for Ela
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I wondered why when we walked
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I wondered why when we walked in on a thursday night the place was virtually empty. I soon figured out after the tiny portions and 100 a person- the food was good but way too pricey. Nice looking place, but drinks and food too pricey."
Dined on 02/28/2013
2011
Share:
-3points
0of 3voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food and service were
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food and service were great. I highly recommend the pork shank - it was SO GOOD! The restaurant had a nice atmosphere,looked very beautiful, and was clean. My only problem was that it was so loud that we could not hear each other at ALL and basically just had to eat in silence. We are both in our mid-20s so it wasnt like we dont like volume, it was just not the place to go have a conversation. It is likely due to too many tables being cramped in a small area. It definitely felt cramped in there, but we still enjoyed it."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Every dish was excellent -
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Every dish was excellent - tasty. unique and absolutely enjoyable! A most enjoyable dining experience!!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
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 46 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Exceptional Ela
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We enjoyed a delicious & inventive meal. Everything was well prepared and looked like little works of art on the plates.... Although an abbreviated menu selection, we found that everything we ordered was delicious and special... I think I liked the fact that it was a smaller selection because it made my decisions easy! Portion size is not overwhelmingly large, but I like that since a lot of restaurants super size the portions which, in my opinion, is not healthy. This was perfect! We selected the kale salad, octopus, skate,scallop noodles and the chicken dumpling... everything tasted delicious! We will be back!!"
Dined on 03/02/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food was excellent - most
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was excellent - most especially the "whipped" foie gras pre, and the salmon main. But, sadly, we were seated next to a hopelessly noisy group of 6 and by the kitchen, all of which made things very distracting. So, be prepared that in addition to the excellent food - Ela is noisy/trendy - with a vibrant bar in the middle of the seating area."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2008
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 48 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food at this restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food at this restaurant is incredible. Though the portions are very small, as they are in most fine dining establishments, they are full of flavor, elegantly plated and the textures and combinations are exquisite. Kudos to the chef! The prices reflect the quality, so be prepared to spend a pretty penny."
Dined on 02/27/2013
2003
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
Share:
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for Ela
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Short menu, but all dishes
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Short menu, but all dishes were well executed. The short rib is extraordinary, but the mashed/sauced potatoes that accompanied them were "too" thin/runny."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2002
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 50 for Ela
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Creative food, innovative
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Creative food, innovative flavor combinations, moderately priced wine lists with food friendly selections"
Dined on 02/20/2013
2006
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.