"Elena’s solves our need for a Big Night Out Mexican restaurant with excellent food that doesn’t cost half a month’s rent (sorry, Californios). This upscale West Portal spot is meant for sexy outfits and sipping on spicy margaritas under live trees and candlelight. Every night, big groups gather in large leather booths and belt out laughs that mingle with Latin rock classics—it’s a vibrant, rowdy dinner party you’ll want to stay at until they kick you out. Luckily, the food is just as good as the scene. The pozole is rich, the esquites are brightened up with kicks of lime, and the melty gobernador tacos arrive with a tangy green salsa that we’d love to pour on every dish." - julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez