El Viejo Central American Kitchen

Been coming here for a few years now and El Viejo rose quickly to my top favorite place of all time. I normally get a standard order: loroco pupusa, bean and cheese pupusa, tamale de elote FRIED (you have to try it fried they are famous for it), and an iced horchata. But if I arrive and can smell the carne asada smoke flavors billowing from the outside, I legit can’t leave without that. The fritanga carne asada. The plantain chips that come on the side, especially in the meal I photographed and enjoyed shown, were so delicious they had this slightly smoked flavor to it omg I almost went crazy. El Viejo will be Michelin Bib Gourmand one day. I know others agree. Felt it the first time I ate the food. For real, if it’s one language that is fluently spoken at this place, it’s food. It can g

We loved it! My fiance and I went during a Saturday AM with their collab with La Finca (another local business in Maryland.) The shop was incredible, great atmosphere, tons of local support. We got the tamal de elote and taquitos tostados. We will def be going back! Thank you guys!

I ordered the Baleada and Pupusas to go. The food was delicious. I really liked the curtido and salsa roja with the pupusas since it added great flavor. Also, with the baleada the tortilla with beans and egg tasted super fresh. Additionally, the inside has a great atmosphere and the interior design makes it feel relaxing and cozy.

This was a tough review for me to write. The food is truly amazing. On its own, it easily deserves five stars. Come hungry, order, enjoy, and leave satisfied. Unfortunately, the service has been disappointing. I visited twice to be fair. The first time, the person at the register was unhelpful and seemed annoyed. The second time, the staff member appeared uninterested and bothered. I am not expecting Michelin-level service, but I do believe that any customer-facing business should offer a basic level of respect and a welcoming attitude. Because of the service, I am giving this three stars. That said, if your priority is excellent Central American food, this place delivers. The tamal de elote frito is one of the best I have ever had. The desayuno típico really hits the spot, and the coffe

It’s like waking into your favorite friend or relatives kitchen that can cook any and everything and you know it will be amazing. The pupusa’s were a literal mouth hug, the accompanying sauces and sides were bright, flavorful and the right amount seasonings/spice. I will be back to try more items on the menu.