mas was conceived by chef tomas rahal both as an antidote for the growing corporate fast-food presence in charlottesville, and as an opportunity to feature slow, organic, artisinal foods and wines, especially those from spain. emphasizing simple, well-made ingredients served in a casual neighborhood setting, mas features much of the traditional fare of spanish tapas, a bite-sized dish eaten between larger meals. these snacks are often eaten in groups, sharing dishes communally and without any pretense or formality.

why spain? as an inspiration spain uniquely blends cultural fusions such as arabic, african, european and asian cuisines in both traditional and cutting edge food explorations. mas’ foods and wines establish a vernacular of flavors, and essential tastes that follow traditional cuisines while exploring new, innovative styles and techniques. mas uniquely features wood-fired artisinal brick oven breads, pastries and slow-cooked braises of colchinillo asado, fresh seafood, and paellas.

a menu in touch with the traditional foods of spain, europe and the mediterranean we provide an opportunity to feature many of the locally produced organic foods and farm products including veggies, meats, honeys, grains, herbs and plants. another unique aspect of mas’ operations is to work closely with local farmers and vineros, both here and abroad, mas is able to offer an incredible diversity of products and varieties not easily sourced by conventional commercial stores. examples of this are the fresh local, wild mushrooms, beautiful whole atlantic sardines, wild alaskan king salmon, kobe beef, or spicy padron peppers. equally rare are the biodynamic and organic red wines of priorato, catalunya, and rioja such as Genium, Privat or Valsacro, or a precious glass of pedro ximenez reserva sherry. from the first olive to the last sip of wine mas strives to exceed your expectations in every aspect of service.