Restaurant and Wine Review

I went to Mochica Peruvian Restaurant on Harrison St. in San Francisco last week because I am a member of OpenTable.com and bought a gift certificate for $25 worth $50.  What a great way to explore restaurants that sound interesting.  We had a variety of authentic Peruvian tapas with some great wines. What stood out the most was a great atmosphere, great presentation and great service.  Don't miss the Costillita de Chancho ($12), pork spareribs glazed with the chef's BBQ sauce. With the tapas (small plates), we started with an Albarinofrom Rias Baixas, Spain, Laxas 2009 ($34).  It was delicious, tangy with balanced acids which paired well with the Pulpito a la Parilla ($12), grilled baby octopus a la parilla with mashed potato and chimichurri.  For an entree, I loved the Churrasco a la Parilla ($21) which is Natural feed NY steak with yucca fries.  The yucca fries are to die for.  We paired that with a Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina from Bautista Simona 2008 ($30).  It was full-bodied, nice fruit and a silky tannin finish.  It was the most full-bodied Malbec I ever tasted.  Overall, it is a great place to hang out, for parties and for an adventure.  The wine list is selected by Chef/Owner Carlos Altamirano "with his food as a guide".  Que Rico!