The 15 Most Fun Dinner Spots In San Francisco - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Even on a Monday night at 9pm, Elena’s in West Portal is packed. That’s because this upscale Mexican restaurant, filled with live trees, all-ages groups clad in their shiniest outfits, and menus the size of a placemat, is the neighborhood’s designated night-out spot. Frozen margaritas flow out of the slushie machine like tap water, platters arrive piled with carnitas or chile colorado, and birthday sparklers get carried through the space almost as often as tortilla refills. And if you’re not in a great mood, the warm, salt-kissed (and most importantly, free) chips will quickly get you there. They’re open all day, but getting a table typically requires a wait during both lunch and dinner. Come by in the mid-afternoon or late evening for your best chance at a short wait. Otherwise, reservations are released on OpenTable three months in advance." - julia chen 1, lani conway, patrick wong