Spanish
Andalu, 3198 16th St., 621-2211
www.andalusf.com$$ This hip tapas restaurant in the Mission district is situated on two floors with both a large open seating area and an upstairs mezzanine that can be closed off for private parties. Top tid-bits include ahi tartare tacos, and grilled filet mignon. Andalu’s platefuls of tiny “tastes” also make for one of the most popular brunches in town.
B44, 44 Belden, 986-6287
www.b44sf.com$$$$ B44's marble-topped bar, extensive sidewalk seating and open kitchen make for a chic but casual Catalan dining experience. Chef Daniel Olivella, formerly of ThirstyBear Brewing Co., has created a menu of Spanish specialties, including eight varieties of paella, canelons and boquerones
Zarzuela, 2000 Hyde, 346-0800
$$ Great food in a rustic Spanish setting. Chef Lucas Gasco serves up regional Spanish cuisine alongside Spanish wines and potent sangria. A popular dish is “Zarzuela de Mariscos” (seafood stew). Neighborhood regulars also enjoy the “Paella Valenciana” and the superb view of Hyde Street’s cable car traffic.
