Elite Cafe

(Pacific Heights)
2049 Fillmore St.  
415-346-8668 Map it
www.theelitecafe.com

Dinner only
$$$-$$$$
Cajun
bar scene, brunch, dine at the bar, open 7 days, outdoor dining, romantic

SCENE: The Elite’s original art deco accents got a much-needed face-lift late last year. Pac Heights locals jostle for space at the bar to sip cocktails and down oysters on the half shell, while diners looking for a more private rendezvous slide into the mahogany booths that line the walls.

EATS: As at the Elite of old, the portions of New Orleans–style Cajun standards are more than generous. The menu includes outstanding sweet-and-spicy collard greens, California seafood gumbo with nontraditional scallops and chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, and a huge plate of pork ribs with tangy barbecue sauce and slaw.