Isabella's Taverna & Tapas Bar

Our group of 10 stopped in for Sunday brunch before a show at the nearby Weinberg Center. Even though the restaurant was busy, our reserved table was ready, and we were seated in a quieter side room that worked perfectly for us. The décor is colorful and warm, with Spanish-inspired art. On this brisk cold afternoon there was also a cozy brick fireplace in full working mode located in the back of the main dining area that adds to the charm. Our server was excellent—friendly, organized, and very mindful of our need to finish in time for the show. She handled separate checks, kept drinks filled, and made sure everything ran smoothly. The food was the highlight. We ordered full brunch meals, and everyone enjoyed their dishes. The house-made chorizo, flavorful sauces, and Eggs Benedict (with the option of a fresh biscuit instead of an English muffin) were especially good. Overall, we had a great experience. The menu is large, the atmosphere is inviting, and we’d happily return the next time we’re in Frederick.

Excellent food. Everything full of flavor, portions were as expected, and served fresh and hot. The service was weird. Our server ... Was he just sarcastic, or was that his attitude? Got the vibe he did not want to be there, or at least not serving our table. He opened with the cursory "have you been here before?" Which is obviously meant to make sure you understand the small plates/ tapas concept. And even though we said that we had, he told us, basically, this is not a one plate for each person establishment. Understood. So I'm ordering -- it's mid afternoon, we'd skipped lunch, we came hungry, and this was a special occasion meal. So we were splashing out. I'm rattling off the dishes and he stops me at one point and says, seven is probably enough. I laughed it off but the more I chew that comment over, the more offended I become. So after our gluttonous number of plates arrive, we enjoy them, order a few more... At one point I asked for something and he very abruptly responded, "What do you want?!" Never offered another round of drinks. Never acknowledged the special occasion. It was just really rubbish service and that let the place down. Love the food, but won't rush back to be made feel like some overfed heifer again.

Had dinner at Isabella’s Taverna & Tapas Bar and everything was delicious! The tapas were especially amazing fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. Great variety on the menu and friendly service. Highly recommended for anyone who loves trying different tastes in a cozy atmosphere.

Didn’t even get to make it in the restaurant because the host was very unaccommodating and seemed like she was coming up with excuses not to seat us together, even though there was only one couple sitting outside. She was very rude and left a terrible impression of this restaurant.

Service: 1

Great food. Great service. Can’t ask for more. Perfect restaurant.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Very good food and reasonably priced.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 5

Food was very good. Service friendly and attentive. Highly recommend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

It was amazing! Good food and I've got no complaints except for one. There WAS a bug I my drink, but that's completely not their fault. They made sure to give me another. Oh, and we got a bit confused on the menu since it doesn't say the appetizers are appetizers. 😅

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Consistently good

Thank you so much for working with my food allergies! Turkey sandwich was great!

Food: 5

Service: 5

Food was not the best, but I think I would try it again.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

We were there for brunch wth family including 2 kids. Variety of food was good, kids menu helpful, and service friendly.. We will return again. Dinner menu was interesting.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

A perfect spot for tapas!! If you want to try a bunch of things and share with others, it's a great option.

The fried asparagus, prosciutto e melone and sangria stood out the most!

Interior is a little vintage-ish which is cute and the servers are attentive and friendly!!

The only drawback is that we don't live close enough to visit every week :s

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

First time. Great menu. Light lunch - mussels with a light broth and an app with bread pear cheese and fig jam - great complementary combo. Bar staff took great care of us.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Isabella’s Taverna & Tapas Bar is a fantastic dining experience for those regulars of Frederick, Maryland and all those passing through. Straight up: if you have a chance to eat here, please do.

After being sat down by the hostess, our waitress Pepper (amazing all around) brought over some drinks and gave us a minute to order. We ended up getting:

- Queso al Horno
baked brie / toasted bread / almonds / port wine reduction / orange

- Papas Bravas
fried potatoes / bravas sauce / garlic aioli

- Empanadas
ground beef / potato / cilantro / chili aioli / manchego cheese / pickled onions

- Chorizo
house-made Spanish sausage / mashed potatoes

- Taza de Crema de Chocolate
chocolate pot de creme / Spanish hot chocolate / fresh strawberries

Everything was outstanding and came out pretty soon after we ordered. The homemade chorizo was so good, and I have to say that the taza de crema was one of the BEST desserts I’ve ever had. Definitely plan on getting one of your own.

Overall, we had a fantastic experience here at Isabella’s! Can’t wait to visit again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5