From the Dallas-based group Duro Hospitality, think of El Carlos Elegante as The Charles’ Mexican cousin. The restaurant is nondescript outside, but inside is a vibrant and lively space, serving authentic Mexican and South American fare with an upscale polish. The best of El Carlos’ dishes center on anything made with house-made masa; the mushroom tetelas or chorizo molotes are brilliant examples. A visit to El Carlos Elegante borders on "special occasion" spending, but the brilliant dishes are worth the price of admission.
Top Pick: Al pastor pork is grilled to perfection and sized to share. Each succulent bite could star on its own, but is accompanied by a rich adobo sauce and a pineapple butter that we never knew was missing from our lives.
- Price: $$$
- Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday & Saturday 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
- Alcohol: Full bar
- Reservations: Recommended
- Parking: Valet
- Extra Services: Private-group dining
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