El Tamarindo

The pupusas were incredible and I’d certainly return. Thankful that this spot is so available, affordable and hospitable. The staff were incredibly nice and open to my jokes. It was plenty of space available for seating. Open to small or large groups.

I had high hopes for El Tamarindo but unfortunately the experience was disappointing. The mango and tamarind drinks tasted exactly the same with no real flavor to either. The guava empanadas were overly sweet and the cheese inside was barely melted which made it hard to enjoy. The tamale had no flavor and came without any salsa on the side which made it feel dry and unfinished. Even the pupusas were bland and didn’t bring the kind of flavor you usually expect from a Salvadoran or Mexican restaurant. Not sure if it was just an off day, but it was surprising because normally places like this get the basics right. Sadly, I don’t think I’d go back again based on this experience.

El Tamarindo is a staple in Adams Morgan. The atmosphere, the food, the waitstaff are all phenomenal! Regardless if you’re dining by yourself or with family/friends, you’re going to feel so welcomed! With indoor and outdoor seating, you are going to enjoy your view.

They do have a 5% service charge as shown on the front of the menu. I’ve been to restaurants that didn’t disclose this or hid it until you see your receipt. I don’t return to restaurants that hide fees. So I at least appreciate it being disclosed here. While I appreciate the transparency, this will also 100% influence people to tip 5% less to balance things out (even though it’s not a tip). A note to the owner: a better business solution would be to actually raise the menu prices which I as a customer would prefer. No one lies fees and it also reflects how you view your employees because this does impact them. Customers see added fees as tips. That aside, the food was great! I got chicken enchiladas with salsa verde and a pollo con queso pupusa. I also tried the empanada de plátano and wh

Absolutely delicious. Solo diner who got sat at the bar and had the sweetest bartender / server. The drinks were incredible and the food was phenomenal. First time visitor and will be back if I ever make it this way north again! Reasonably priced considering I got two drinks, a very large meal and their pupusas were the perfect size. Also - they serve their food at the perfect temperature. Chefs kiss!