Andalu's a great small plates restaurant in the heart of the Mission District. I've been there on dates and with groups and in both cases the ambiance and the dining format works very well. Try the coca-cola braised short ribs and the ahi tuna tacos. Also, the donut holes and hot chocolate for dessert is not to be missed.
Andalu also has an extensive wine list and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable and will be happy to walk you through it.
As an interesting side note, ladies seem to regularly develop crushes on chef/owner Calvin Schneiter. (It could also be that I'm a boring date.)
Make a reservation on weekends.
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