El Colmao

11/18/08

The Best! Ignore all other cuban in LA

by ACEdge at Citysearch

First ate here years ago with a friend who grew up in Pico-union. Authentic. no-nonsense. great food. What else is needed?

• Pros: Ropa, fried plantains...mmm

06/28/08

Been going there since 1972.

by asp811 at Citysearch

I remember going there with my parents all those years ago. The food has remained consistent throughout that time. Its one of the few places where you can order beef tongue and its served right. The portions are good and overall its still a good value. The only draw back is the lack of parking and the sketchy neighborhood.

• Pros: Good variety of traditional Cuban dishes.
• Cons: Limited parking, neighborhood.

07/14/06

Great Authentic Cuban Food

by cubasianchica at Citysearch

Ive been going back to this place for years. My family loves to come here when they visit from Fresno. Its great authentic cuban food for a reasonable price. It a great family setting great for groups. You dont usually need to make a reservation but if you want to make sure you get in, you can make reservations. The only con about this place is that the food does take a little bit to get there but trust me it is well worth the wait. Also its not in the best part of town so make sure you lock your cars. Other than that i recomend this place to everyone if you want to see what real cuban food is about. In my opinion it far exceeds the quality of authentic food of even Jennifer Lopez's restaurant in Pasadena and it is cheaper here!! Very Yummy!

04/10/06

A hidden gem

by codfish at Citysearch

I have paid more for Cuban food that is not this good. I will go back to try more of the menu.

I suppose this place would be a dime a dozen in Miami, but it is a find in LA. a geat place for a casual LA lunch on a day when you are hungry.

• Pros: Casual, tasty
• Cons: Casual

07/04/04

Great Food!

by bofill at Citysearch

This is a Cuban Landmark. My Parents have taken me their since I was a child. The food is always fresh and the lunch specials are great! It is the best food for your money. Try the Arroz con Pollo or the Bistec Empanizado, it is all great! And when you are done try a flan, its heavenly!

• Pros: inexpensive, secured parking, lots of food

06/13/02

Best in LA

by gamehaus at Citysearch

Being Cuban, I'd say this is perhaps the best Cuban restaurant in Los Angeles for down-home "abuelita" style comida. The Wednesday special, "Pollo fricase," is worth a pilgrimage for lunch. Have a Materva with your meal, have a heated conversation about the political death of Fidel Castro and you will have fulfilled your Cuban dining experience.

• Pros: good food, great specials, central location
• Cons: icky neighborhood, parking scarce