Mexican Restaurant
4.7
(67)
El Calamar is a quaint establishment celebrated for its authentic Mexican cuisine. Many patrons have praised the homemade elements of the dishes, such as fresh tortillas and slow-cooked birria, which contribute to the genuine dining experience. Though service times might be longer due to the preparation from scratch, the quality of food makes it worthwhile, and the friendly atmosphere enhances the overall visit.
Phone number: (818) 897-3593
Address: 11408 Herrick Ave, Pacoima, CA 91331, USA
Opening hours
**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!**
" El Calamar has a special place in my heart. It's a small family operation that treats you like one of their own. The food is so fresh, and the homemade tortillas are a highlight. Every time I visit, I'm reminded of meals cooked by my grandmother. If you're looking for authentic Mexican food, this is the place to be. It may take some time to get your meal, but that just means they’re preparing it with love! " (*Curated Review*)
" El Calamar has stolen my heart with its incredible food and welcoming vibe! Each visit feels like coming home, especially with the lovingly prepared dishes. The birria is the best I've ever had—so flavorful and served with homemade tortillas! The staff is always very friendly. If you're looking for a quality dining experience that feels genuine, this is the place to go. They might take a little longer than a fast-food restaurant, but don't let that deter you! " (*Curated Review*)
" Honestly, I wasn't overly impressed during my visit to El Calamar. While the food itself was decent, it didn't blow me away as I had hoped from the reviews. The service was friendly but incredibly slow, and I had to wait quite a long time for my order. I tried the birria, which was good but not exceptional. It had nice flavors, but I've had better at other places. The atmosphere is cozy, but the wait made me hesitant to return in the future. " (*Curated Review*)
" Having tried El Calamar multiple times, I can say that this restaurant hits all the right notes when it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine. Each dish feels lovingly crafted, reminiscent of meals made in a family kitchen. The birria brings me back to my childhood every time. I especially appreciate the handmade tortillas which add that extra layer of authenticity. Yes, the wait time can be a bit longer during busy hours, but I believe it demonstrates the care they take in food preparation. The ambiance is casual yet clean; it holds a charm that is hard to resist. My family and I always leave satisfied and looking forward to our next meal there. I highly recommend El Calamar to anyone craving genuine Mexican flavors. If you want fast food, this isn't the place for you, but if you want delicious and authentic, it exceeds expectations! " (*Curated Review*)
" I went to El Calamar after seeing so many positive reviews, and I can see why it has a good reputation. The food is homemade with lots of love, but it definitely takes time. I loved the birria and homemade tortillas. If you can be patient, the flavors will not disappoint you. The cozy space makes it feel like a family gathering; I’ll definitely be back! " (*Curated Review*)
" If you want a true taste of Mexico, El Calamar is the place to be! The staff is super nice, and every dish I've tried has been a delight—especially the birria. Authentic and satisfying! I didn’t mind the wait as the food was worth it, and I left happy and full. " (*Curated Review*)
" El Calamar reminds me of home cooked meals! The attention to detail in their dishes makes all the difference. I highly recommend their birria with handmade tortillas. It’s not a large restaurant, so get there early! I found my meal to be filling and reasonably priced for the quality of food served. Overall, a great experience! " (*Curated Review*)
Address: 14214 Devonshire St, Arleta, CA 91331, USA
Address: 16156 San Fernando Mission Blvd, Granada Hills, CA 91344, USA
Address: 2905 N Glenoaks Blvd, Burbank, CA 91504, USA
Address: 12629 Glenoaks Blvd, Sylmar, CA 91342
Address: 9700 Woodman Ave, Arleta, CA 91331, USA
Address: 14214 Devonshire St, Arleta, CA 91331
Address: 8155 Van Nuys Blvd #108, Panorama City, CA 91402, USA
Address: 8879 N Laurel Canyon Blvd # A, Sun Valley, CA 91352, USA
Address: 11669 Sherman Way, North Hollywood, CA 91605, USA
Address: 12308 Sheldon St, Sun Valley, CA 91352, USA