Mamacita

(Marina)
2317 Chestnut St.  
415-346-8494 Map it
www.mamacitasf.com

E + D Award Winner; Dinner only
$$-$$$
Mexican
bar scene, brunch, dine at the bar, good for groups, open 7 days, singles scene

2007 EAT + DRINK AWARD: Best Mexican

SCENE: Deafening crowds of Marina locals pack into this happening hot spot opened by event planners Vintage 415. Decked out in classy tones of chocolate brown and light blue, the space exudes an upscale, Mexican-comes-to-the-Marina vibe.

EATS: The food here is several steps above your average burrito joint, from authentic tacos piled high with lightly crisped red snapper to chilaquiles, a spicy combination of tortilla chips, roast chicken and sweet-pepper rajas. Entrées are refined and artfully presented—a grilled Meyer skirt steak, for example, comes with a stack of thick-cut chipotle onion rings. Don’t forget to order a margarita: the potent Patrón version will knock your socks off, in a good way.