Alegrias

(Marina)
2018 Lombard St.  
415-929-8888 Map it

$$-$$$
Spanish
good for groups, open 7 days, quiet, romantic

SCENE: Framed photos on the walls, chairs with floral-printed slipcovers and random knickknacks scattered about read more “auntie’s dining room” than the Marina. Maybe that’s why this homey, family-owned Spanish restaurant remains under the radar in its own neighborhood but attracts diners from all corners of the city.

EATS: Start your meal with a fruity pour of sangria before grazing your way through a parade of hot and cold tapas. Regulars return for crab cakes, patatas bravas, brandy-flambéed Manchego cheese and empanadillas. The paellas—try the Valenciana with chicken and seafood—also have a loyal fan base. For something truly unique, the Catalan spinach pairs wilted greens with currants, apples and the crunch of pine nuts.