For more than ten years, La Cuchara has proudly presented authentic Basque cuisine to the residents of Baltimore. However, a recent fire incident on Sunday has forced the restaurant to temporarily cease its operations indefinitely.
Chef and co-owner Ben Lefenfeld, who co-manages the establishment with his wife, Amy, and brother, Jake, expressed his deep disappointment: “Having La Cuchara for nearly 11 years makes this extremely upsetting. We are just grateful that no one was injured in the fire.”
While the cause of the fire is still under investigation, the Baltimore City Fire Department reported that the blaze originated in the venting system and was successfully under control by 5:33 p.m. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.
Lefenfeld mentioned that they are currently uncertain about the level of damage and the estimated costs for repairs.
La Cuchara first opened its doors in 2015 within the historic Meadow Mill building, situated near Woodberry and Hampden. The restaurant has won numerous awards, including “Best Cocktail” from the former Baltimore City Paper and recognition for having “Baltimore’s Best Bar Program” from The Baltimore Sun.
Expressing concern for their 60 employees affected by this closure, Lefenfeld stated, “Our primary concern is to ensure that we can continue to support our staff during this challenging time. That is our main objective right now, along with navigating the complexities of dealing with insurance companies.”
In the aftermath of the incident, the restaurant has received an overwhelming number of supportive messages and letters from devoted customers.
“We are truly grateful for the outpouring of community support. It has been heartwarming to read reviews from patrons recalling their favorite meals and showing concern for us,” Lefenfeld shared. “The support has been truly humbling.”
Customers have taken to social media to express their relief that no one was hurt and to convey their hopes for the restaurant’s swift recovery.
“You are my favorite restaurant! My husband and I just celebrated our anniversary there last Monday, and I fell in love with both the dining experience and my husband!” commented Nora Neijstrom on Facebook. “I can’t wait to visit again!”
Similarly, Rebecca Pollino wrote on Instagram, “I hope you all are doing well. La Cuchara is the only place I feel completely safe dining out as a celiac.”
Henry Kahn also shared his thoughts on Facebook: “We’ll be there as soon as you can reopen — really enjoyed our dinner there on Friday night.”
Moreover, Sam McGovern posted on Instagram: “You’re one of our favorite spots and we’ll support you once you’re back on your feet.”
This incident has also introduced uncertainty regarding plans for a second dining venue that the owners of La Cuchara were aiming to establish.
In May 2025, J. C. Porter Construction LLC announced renovations of the former Five and Dime Ale House on The Avenue in Hampden, planning for La Cuchara’s owners to operate the new establishment.
When asked if the fire would affect these future plans, Lefenfeld stated that they are still gathering information. “At this stage, we don’t have clarity on how everything will align with the concept at the vacant Five and Dime. We are focused on collecting as much information as possible to make informed decisions moving ahead.”
