Paella, Perfected – San Francisco Chronicle

Featured in San Francisco Chronicle — “Paella, perfected”

Published: January 29, 2016
Source: San Francisco Chronicle (Michael Bauer)

We’re proud that San Francisco Chronicle named La Marcha in their “La Marcha in Berkeley: Paella, perfected” review, placing our paellas front and center as a defining feature of what we do. San Francisco Chronicle


What They Loved

In the piece, the Chronicle elevates several of our signature paellas — Tres Cerditos, Valenciana, and Arroz Negro — for their bold flavors, attention to richness and texture, and one paella even producing that beloved socarrat (the toasted crust at the pan’s bottom) that many seek. San Francisco Chronicle

They also spotlighted our tapas: classics like patatas bravas, salt cod fritters, piquillos rellenos, wild boar meatballs, and more. On the dessert side, they noted our churros, chocolate cake, and a saffron-pistachio ice cream accompaniment. It was rewarding to see both food and ambiance — the cozy brick interior, warm lighting, Spanish wine selections — acknowledged alongside the dishes. San Francisco Chronicle


Why It Continues to Matter

Being recognized early on by a critic like Michael Bauer helped set a standard for us — a reminder of what we aim for nightly: food that surprises, flavors that feel authentic, and an atmosphere that feels like Spain in Berkeley. It laid a foundation that’s shaped everything we do, from sourcing ingredients to refining service, to creating dishes that are rich without being showy, comforting without being predictable.


Come Taste the Chronicle-Praise

If you read the review and want to experience the dishes that got such praise — the paellas, the tapas, the desserts — we’d love to have you in. Whether you’re here for a full meal or just want to linger with a glass of wine, we hope every bite lives up to those early words.