Zarzuela
San Francisco, CA 94109-1718
Phone: (415) 346-0800
- Price:
- $
- Cross Street:
- Union Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Spanish Food 2004
- Hours:
- Tue-Thu 5:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-10:30pm
Editorial Review for Zarzuela – by Citysearch Editors
The Scene
The blazing-yellow awning at the corner of Hyde and Union makes a perfect entry to this rococo restaurant. The dining room is painted with bright yellows and reds, offset by naturally finished wood furniture. Spanish music bounces off the tiled floors and large windows catch the passing cable cars. Elaborately decorated plates and Spanish style paintings adorn the walls.
The Food
Good bread and a small dish of Spanish olives are brought to each table as diners arrive--a very nice touch. Tapas are generally excellent, in particular the spicy shrimp with aioli, and the mushrooms sauteed in garlic and white wine. Entrees are equally strong, highlighted by the paella Valenciana, which ranks among the best in San Francisco. Other classic Spanish plates include the eponymous zarzuela (a rich seafood stew), oxtail casserole and grilled lamb.
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Insider Tips
Save TimeKeep in mind that the paella is made only for two or more, and takes 30 minutes to prepare.
User Reviews for Zarzuela
05/27/2008 Posted by Antonius
I have gone to Zarzuela 3 times over a span of about 12 years since I only get to San Francisco occasionally. The food remains superb each time I go. I have eaten at quite a few Spanish restaurants in the US, and it is easily the best and most authentic aside from Cafe Iberico in Chicago. The grilled mushrooms with serrano ham and garlic were excellent, as was the jamon iberico with tomato bread. The wait can sometimes be a little bit irritating, as there is nowhere really to wait other than outside and the fact that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays leaves you to make careful planning if you are only in town for a couple of days.
Pros: Excellent Spanish food, great variety
Cons: Very loud, no place to wait for table, closed 2 days a week
03/18/2007 Posted by yannisa
With my girlfriend we were looking for a romantic tapas place, the name sounded nice. Food was good, but not amazing at all + portions were small, too small for the price (about $8 for each tapas), the lamb dish, was $8 for 2 minuscule skewers. The atmosphere was OK, but not romantic, I think it's a good place for a group but not just a couple...
Pros: Nice location, service OK
Cons: Price, quantity
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