The alluring atmosphere at Javier's called out to me. The curved architectural details fused with the white and dark colors presented an elegant Mission style ambiance that points to fine Mexican.
Wait, who am I kidding? it's the margaritas people!
Our 3 visits in a row is certainly a testament to their margaritas. If you're a margarita snob, this place certainly caters to your tastes: 14 different margarita combinations on the menu made with tequilas ranging from the affordable El Jimador to high end Casa Noble and even an organic one called Azunia!
Aiyayay. We just had to try several. The Casa one comes in cheapest at $13 and you can definitely taste the more grassy tones and sourness of the drink. Opt to pay the premium price of $18 for a well made Javier's: Patron Reposado, Grand Marnier and Triple sec. This was a smoother experience overall, but if you've been to Tommy's Mexican restaurant in SF, you'd probably say a margarita with Grand Marnier is essentially not an authentic one.
They also have fun flavors like the Jalapeno for a spicy kick, the Tamarindo and even a Paloma made with Casa Noble, if you're not in the margarita mood.
The complimentary crispy chips and red salsa with just enough kick kept my hand busy digging into the chips bowl. I love that I can carry a conversation here without having to scream to my partner and the service is always fantastic whether we sit at the bar or in one of the cozy leather booths.
Javier's got my heart racing for their hand shaken libations and my wallet crying every time I come here. I just close my eyes and pretend I'm on a beach somewhere in Mexico ...