Where To Hang Out Near SF Restaurants With Long Waits - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Elena’s is a Mexican restaurant that’s making a case for West Portal to be the next Big Night Out neighborhood. With all the hype over rich pozole and perfect margaritas, there’s also a perpetual wait. If you’re doing the walk-up thing, put your name down and head across the street to Binu Bonu. The Italian wine bar (by the La Ciccia people) fits right in with the small-town charm of West Portal Avenue, and it’s a great place to sip on a chilled red while checking your waitlist status every two minutes. 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