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Coqueta
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Coqueta
9.2
Coqueta offers a vibrant waterfront setting with handcrafted tapas, traditional paellas, and creative cocktails, all made with the freshest California ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Gambas al Ajillo, Patatas Bravas, Paella Valenciana
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 9.5
What makes it special: Waterfront location with a modern Spanish menu and exceptional cocktails.
Who should go: Couples seeking a romantic and upscale dining experience.
When to visit: Evenings for sunset views and a lively atmosphere.
What to order: Array
Insider tip: Reserve a table near the window for the best views of the Bay Bridge.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $15, street parking difficult after 6pm, but metered spots available nearby.
Dress code: Smart casual, jeans ok but lean dressy. Avoid overly casual attire like shorts or flip-flops.
Noise level: Moderate - can hear your date, but the lively atmosphere is part of the experience.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, especially on weekends during sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but reservations are recommended for a guaranteed table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated menu section with multiple vegetarian tapas and paella options.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options such as roasted vegetables and vegetable paella.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area for gluten-free dishes, including paellas and tapas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the romantic waterfront setting and vibrant atmosphere make it perfect for a first date. The exceptional cocktails and scenic views enhance the experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's possible, but highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak hours for sunset views and on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Coqueta is more suitable for adults seeking a romantic or upscale dining experience, but it can accommodate children in the early evening if they are comfortable in a lively atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: Better for a romantic, upscale dining experience with spectacular views and an innovative Spanish menu.
Skip if: Skip if you're looking for a casual, family-friendly dining experience or if you prefer a quieter environment.
Coqueta
8.4
Waterfront Spanish spot known for traditional paellas, pintxos, and sherry-driven cocktails. Since 2013, it’s been a lively Embarcadero destination for tapas with Bay views and polished service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paella Tinta, Gambas Negras, Grilled Octopus
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Handcrafted tapas and paella on the Bay since 2013.
Who should go: Tapas lovers and waterfront date-night diners
When to visit: Weeknights; reserve patio before sunset
What to order: Paella Tinta; Gambas Negras; Grilled Octopus
Insider tip: Order paella first—it typically takes 30–40 minutes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking available in the Pier 5 lot directly behind the restaurant; street parking is limited, especially after 6pm on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—collared shirts and sundresses fit the Bayfront date-night scene.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively indoors; patio offers easier conversation with ambient waterfront noise.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seating occasionally opens faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:15pm; brief 10–15 minute pause after 1pm rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several tapas and paella options, including roasted vegetables and manchego-based plates.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 dishes can be made vegan; confirm with your server for olive-oil-only prep.
Gluten-free options: Many dishes are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions and cross-contact precautions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The bayfront views, dim lighting, and shareable tapas create an intimate but energetic setting perfect for a first or second date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted but limited; arrive before 5:30pm or plan for the bar or patio waitlist after 7pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children due to tight seating and lively bar crowd, but older kids and teens are welcome on the patio for lunch.
Best For
Better for: Scenic waterfront dining, polished service, and authentic tapas pacing make it stand out among Embarcadero spots.
Skip if: You prefer quiet, low-key meals—noise and energy levels peak during prime hours.
Coqueta
8.6
Waterfront Spanish tapas from the Coqueta team with a deep sherry and gin-tonic program, polished small plates, and paella by the bay. Since 2013, it’s been a go-to for date-night energy with lively bar seating and views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Paella negra (squid ink), Gambas al ajillo, Pan con tomate
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Waterfront Spanish tapas and paella with serious cocktail and sherry focus.
Who should go: Couples seeking lively, scenic tapas night
When to visit: Golden hour into dinner for views
What to order: Paella negra; gambas al ajillo; pan con tomate
Insider tip: Grab bar seats for faster access to the full menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby fills up fast; public garage at Pier 3 or valet at neighboring restaurants typically $15–20.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—think button-downs or a nice dress; jeans are fine if paired well.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively indoors; patio seating is quieter and better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seating sometimes available for walk-ins.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins fine for patio or bar area.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tapas like patatas bravas, pan con tomate, and roasted vegetables.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 items can be adapted upon request; communicate with your server.
Gluten-free options: Yes — menu notes gluten-free options and staff are well-versed in cross-contamination protocols.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the waterfront setting, shareable tapas, and lively bar make it ideal for a playful, conversational first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not guaranteed — try arriving early evening to snag bar or patio seats; reservations are essential on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially — the space and energy lean adult/date-night; older teens might enjoy the food, but small children aren’t the norm.
Best For
Better for: Polished tapas experience with bay views and one of the city’s best Spanish gin-tonic programs.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, traditional Spanish dinner or need a large-group-friendly setting — the atmosphere is social and buzzy.