"Plan ahead to get a table at Elena’s—the fancy Mexican restaurant in West Portal has been SF’s hottest ticket since the Warriors crossed the bay. But once you snag a table, prepare for a feast of pozole, chicken enchiladas, and cream-laden esquites in the neighborhood’s best place for a Big Night Out. Expertly balanced margaritas are on hand while you admire the indoor trees and mirrored arches, the ideal background for photographic evidence that you left the house to celebrate. 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, patrick wong, ricky rodriguez
