El Chinaco Restaurant
Restaurant
$$
4.2
(565)
El Chinaco Restaurant is a beloved spot for those seeking authentic Salvadoran cuisine, particularly its renowned pupusas. The restaurant atmosphere is generally welcoming and cozy, though experiences may vary when it comes to service. Many customers appreciate the fresh preparation of the food and the generous portion sizes, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Restaurant website: Website
Phone number: (949) 722-8632
Address: 560 W 19th St, Costa Mesa, CA 92627, USA
Opening hours
Photo gallery
Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)
**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**
" I had a wonderful time at El Chinaco. The atmosphere was upbeat and energetic, which paired well with the delicious food. Their pupusas were cooked to perfection; warm and filled generously. I also loved the complimentary salsas that allowed for a flavor explosion; the red salsa was my favorite! Service was attentive, and I appreciated the clear communication from the staff. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone curious about Salvadoran cuisine. " (*Curated Review*)
" I've always been a lover of Salvadoran food, and El Chinaco did not disappoint! The pupusas are the real deal, made fresh to order. I tried both the bean and cheese as well as the pork, and each had their unique flavor that reminded me of my grandmother's cooking. On the flip side, the service was quite slow, with a wait time of around 25 minutes for our food. Still, I appreciated the hand-crafted quality of each dish. It’s a cozy restaurant, perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal, but if you’re in a hurry, plan accordingly! " (*Curated Review*)
" El Chinaco has earned my respect! From the moment I walked in, the welcoming vibe drew me in. The menu had enticing options, and I opted for the pupusas. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint! Made fresh and served hot, each one was delightful. The only downside was a slight delay in receiving my order, but it was evident they were preparing everything with care. I'm glad I discovered this place and will return for sure! " (*Curated Review*)
" I want to express how disappointed I felt during my last visit to El Chinaco. Despite the great reputation, the service was lacking during my visit. It took a long time for our orders to be taken and even longer for the food to arrive. The pupusas were decent but did not live up to the hype I had heard. However, I did appreciate the generous portion sizes, and the modest prices make it reasonable. I may give it another chance, but my experience wasn't the best this time. " (*Curated Review*)
" The food here is tasty, and the highlight was undoubtedly the pupusas! They were made fresh to order, and I loved experimenting with the different sauces from their salsa bar. The service was friendly but could be improved; it took a while to receive my order. The seating area was neat, if a bit informal. I did find the prices slightly on the higher side compared to similar restaurants, but the quality compensated for it! I’d definitely recommend giving it a try for an authentic taste. " (*Curated Review*)
Archived Reviews (454)
" Having recently discovered El Chinaco, I must say, it's a gem! The pupusas, particularly the cheese and loroco, are simply to die for. Freshly made, warm and incredibly flavorful. The service staff is friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for a family dinner or a night out with friends. I highly recommend trying their curtido on the side, it adds the perfect crunch! This is definitely going to be my go-to spot for Salvadoran food from now on. " (*Curated Review*)
" El Chinaco has become my go-to place for Salvadoran food. Every time I visit, I am greeted warmly by the staff, who always take the time to recommend dishes. I love ordering their pupusas; the flavor is always consistent, and the hand-made quality shines through. While the wait times can be a little long during peak hours, it’s all part of the experience knowing that you're getting fresh food. I have yet to try everything on the menu, but I'm excited to go back soon! " (*Curated Review*)
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