Bota Tapas & Paella Bar

- 490 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102

For California residents and visitors looking for a truly authentic taste of Spain right in the heart of San Francisco, look no further than Bota Tapas & Paella Bar. This establishment captures the spirit of Spanish dining, focusing on the cultural ideals of sharing and community, much like the traditional “Bota” wineskin it’s named after. Located conveniently in the city, Bota offers a comprehensive culinary journey from the Iberian Peninsula to the Golden State.

The core of the menu is built around the lively tradition of tapas—small, shared plates that allow diners to sample a variety of flavors. Beyond the vibrant tapas selection, the restaurant is celebrated for its expertly prepared paellas, which are available in several tempting varieties. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or a sophisticated group outing, providing a cozy and trendy backdrop for any occasion.

From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a warm, inviting space. The atmosphere is consistently described as boutique, relaxing, and romantic, yet can be lively and boisterous, perfect for groups and tourists alike. The dedicated staff strives to provide fast and attentive service, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a local seeking a reliable Spanish spot or a traveler craving authentic flavors, Bota Tapas & Paella Bar offers a delicious slice of Spanish culture in a central California location.

California is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and Bota Tapas & Paella Bar adds a distinct Spanish flavor to the mix. It is particularly popular for lunch and dinner, and is also welcoming for solo diners. The focus on sharing plates makes it an excellent choice for a social evening, aligning perfectly with the laid-back, yet sophisticated, dining culture of the Bay Area.

The atmosphere strikes a careful balance—it's casual enough for a spontaneous visit but refined enough for a special celebration. Its setting near local theaters makes it a perfect pre-show dining destination, adding convenience to its long list of attractive qualities. With an extensive wine list and a commitment to authentic recipes, this San Francisco gem is a must-try for any food enthusiast in California.

Even for those who have recently traveled to Spain, the paellas at Bota, particularly the unique Squid Ink variety, have been noted by patrons as some of the best they have ever had. The tapas are equally lauded, with dishes like Ox-Tail and Steamed Mussels receiving high praise. This consistency in quality ensures that Bota Tapas & Paella Bar stands out as a genuine culinary highlight in the California dining landscape.

The dedication to providing both excellent food and a memorable setting is evident in every detail. The restaurant’s decor and ambiance contribute significantly to the overall experience, creating a comfortable space where conversation and shared moments thrive. Whether you are indulging in a rich dessert like the Chocolate Ganache or enjoying a perfectly paired glass of wine, Bota ensures a satisfying and authentic Spanish experience.

Accessibility is also a key consideration for California diners, and Bota Tapas & Paella Bar is prepared to welcome all guests. The venue boasts full wheelchair accessibility, including the entrance, restrooms, and seating areas, making it a truly inclusive dining destination in San Francisco.

Location and Accessibility

Bota Tapas & Paella Bar is centrally located in the bustling area of San Francisco, making it a highly accessible spot for both city residents and tourists. You can find this exquisite Spanish eatery at: 490 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA. Its position on Geary Street places it in a prime location, close to major hotels and the city’s vibrant theater district.

For those driving, paid street parking is available in the vicinity. For public transport users, the central location ensures easy access via various Muni routes. The restaurant is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restroom, ensuring a welcoming experience for everyone in California.

Services Offered

Bota Tapas & Paella Bar offers a variety of services to accommodate all dining preferences, including both on-site and off-site options. These services include:

• Dine-in table service for a full restaurant experience.
• Outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the San Francisco atmosphere.
• Takeout options for those preferring to dine at home.
• Curbside pickup for convenient, on-the-go service.
• Delivery service for enjoying Spanish cuisine delivered right to your door.
• Accepts reservations, highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours.
• Provides breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert service.
• Table service is provided by attentive and professional staff.

Features / Highlights

The restaurant stands out in the competitive California food market due to several distinct features and offerings:

• Extensive Menu Variety: A comprehensive offering of Spanish cuisine, including classic tapas, charcuterie, and multiple paella options (Seafood, Meat, Vegeterian, Squid Ink, etc.).
• Weekend Breakfast: A unique offering for a Spanish restaurant, including items like the BOTA BREAKFAST, TORTILLA ESPANOLA, Pancakes, and Belgian Waffles, available Saturday and Sunday mornings.
• Beverage Program: Features a great wine list, full bar onsite, and a selection of Beer, Cocktails, and Hard liquor, alongside Coffee.
• Dining Experience: Features include a bar onsite, comfortable seating, and a clean restroom.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts all major payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Specialty Dishes: Popular highlights include the Grilled Octopus, Bacon Wrapped Dates, Patatas Bravas, and the highly-regarded Squid Ink Paella.
• Dietary Options: Menu includes healthy options, comfort food, and small plates, with vegetarian items available.
• Atmosphere: Described as Casual, Cozy, Romantic, and Trendy, making it suitable for various occasions, from a spontaneous stop to a romantic date night.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or placing an order, Bota Tapas & Paella Bar can be reached using the following details:

Address: 490 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA

Phone: (415) 345-2303

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Bota Tapas & Paella Bar is choosing a complete, authentic Spanish dining experience in California. What makes it a top choice is the combination of genuine Spanish flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a dedication to excellent service. The restaurant truly excels in its namesake dishes—the tapas and paella. Patrons frequently call out the Squid Ink Paella as an exceptional, must-try item. The tapas menu, offering delights like Ox-Tail, Garlic Prawns, and Secreto Iberico (black pork), ensures that every guest finds something delicious to share.

Furthermore, the availability of weekend breakfast adds a unique dimension, allowing guests to start their Saturday or Sunday with a Spanish touch. The excellent wine list perfectly complements the rich flavors of the food, elevating the entire meal. Whether you are planning a special date night or a casual dinner with friends, Bota's romantic and cozy ambiance, coupled with its highly-rated food and wine offerings, makes it a premier destination for Spanish cuisine in San Francisco. Its proximity to the theater district also makes it a strategically convenient and delightful choice for a pre-show meal, ensuring your entire outing is enjoyable and stress-free.

Bota Tapas & Paella Bar

490 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA