The Sylvia's on eldridge is a different experience than the old westheimer location, which we loved. We tried the eldridge location several times when they were both open, but kept going back to the westheimer one. When they finally closed we had no choice and the experience was not even comparable. Higher prices, smaller portions, sloppy service. We did not give up and have continue to go back every few weeks. Finally the last 3 times things have turned, and I think I know three trick: SIT ON THE SIDE OF THE BAR! The atmosphere and service have been better there. Price and portions still not like before, but I'll exchange that for a good atmosphere and service. It may have helped that Sylvia happened to be there and sat in a table next to ours one of those times. We will keep visiting this restaurant, and if things get bad again, I'll update my review. For now they are on the rise.

UPDATE: It has been a couple of years since I've updated this review, but as of Jan 1 of 2023, I think I'm done giving this place more chances. We ordered takeout, hoping to have food that brought back good memories. For many years we enjoyed the Sarita enchiladas with our kids and now they were home for the holidays from college and work life so we were all looking forward to it. Unfortunately, it was disappointing. The enchiladas were extremely salty. It's not that we have not had them before, but when you have a flavor ingrained, you know when the taste is off. Portions still very small and prices simply are hard to justify with what tasted like someone playing cook in the kitchen. I also had some poblano chile rellenos, and they were much more spicy than I'm used to from just about any restaurant we order. We love the taste and texture of the poblano pepper, but when the seeds are not removed, there are pockets of very spicy food that take away from the enjoyment.

I'll keep getting the other Mexican restaurants in the neighborhood my business, instead of this place.