Best Spanish Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

The Gambas Al Ajillo spicy small plate was delicious as was the well-marinated boneless pork chop. My dining partner enjoyed the meal, but found the chicken croquetas to be a bit mushy and short on chicken and ham relative to the fried breading. The El Volcan mezcal was so good that we had a couple. And the Fresaflor tequila cocktail was both attractive and delicious according to my friend. We arrived early and the restaurant was full by the time we left at 8:00, unusual for a Tuesday. This was not our first visit as we live in the neighborhood. We appreciated the attentiveness of the staff even when they were otherwise busy. I don't like the separate 4% charge for the San Francisco mandates even though it is a relative common practice with restaurants in this town. Next time, my usual 20% waiter's tip will be 16%.

We got there fairly early and the noise level was low enough for talking and hanging out. Around 6:30 ish the crowds rolled in and it got a little busy/energetic and hard to listen and maintain a convo. Overall food and service 10/10 😁

Lovely meal. Service was a little rushed - took a wine glass and a plate before we’d finished. But food was delicious.

Great tapas tasting with substitutes for dietary needs. Lots of value priced wines and we found one Juan Gil blend we enjoyed. Only negative was a very loud table next to ours, but fortunately they ate quickly and left!

Great service. Tasty food. Well located. We’ll be back.