Suitably keeping near-Spanish hours for the Spanish cuisine here, dinners are served late at César, whose kitchen closes at 11:30 PM on Friday and Saturday and at 11 PM the rest of the week. Couples spill out from its street-level windows on warm nights, or rub shoulders at the polished bar or center communal table. Founded by a trio of former Chez Panisse chefs, César is like a first cousin to Chez Panisse, each restaurant recommending the other if there's a long wait ahead. For tapas and perfectly grilled bocadillos (small sandwiches), there's no better choice. The bar also makes a mean martini, and has an impressive wine list. Come early to get seated quickly and also to hear your tablemates; the room gets loud when the bar is in full swing.
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