At 255 West Portal Avenue sits a new dining experience that’s drawing in the whole Bay Area. Opening three months ago, Elena’s is the talk of the city with its high end homey Mexican food.
The restaurant floor plan was started on a napkin that is very similar to what customers will see now. The restaurant pays homage to Elena’s two daughters Catherine and Julia’s Mexican heritage and honors their family. Down the side of the restaurant there are many family photos of Elena’s family making people feel like they are a welcomed guest in her home.
Elena Duggan said, “I want people to walk into my home and feel like they belong here.”
There are limited reservations at the moment for easy walk in. On average, a wait time can be up to an hour but that gives customers time to walk into the many stores that West Portal has to offer.
The moment customers walk in they notice the real trees that cascade down the middle of the restaurant bringing in a natural and relaxing feeling. Once seated, endless complimentary chips and salsa are provided–which are some of the best chips I’ve ever had–and are constantly refilled for the customer’s enjoyment. I would recommend ordering guacamole, which is Julia’s own recipe. The warm chips go perfectly with the cooled avocado.
The staff is very friendly and frequently check in to see if there is anything that they can do to make the meal more enjoyable. After ordering from the various options on the menu, visitors can take in the sun from the windows on the ceiling that bring in the best natural light ever seen in a restaurant. Though I was not there at night, a visit after sundown might invite the stars, bringing in a romantic mood to dinner.
The wait time for the food is fast, only around 15 minutes. When the meal arrives, it is obvious that it was made with care. After ordering the burrito, the waiters were happy to accommodate all needs. The first bite transports patrons to a very sophisticated but also nostalgic feeling. With top of the line ingredients, everyone is sure to finish and savor their dish.
When the desert comes around, do not miss it. The churros looked like they were covered in crystal sugar, and also came with warm chocolate sauce that can only be described as heavenly.
Overall, the food and the experience earn Elena’s 5 out of 5 stars. This is an experience that one has to see a taste to fully appreciate. Only three words come to mind when leaving: Elena is a genius!
