"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."

"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!"

"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 while it was good it wasn’t my type of dessert. This was my first time trying Salvadoran food. I don’t live in DC but if they have other chains around the US or if I come back to DC I’d definitely return. The waitress Madelyn was also friendly and attentive. FYI no free chips and salsa."

"Delicious Salvadorean food. Pupusas are delicious but the Empanadas de Plátano (plantain empanadas) were top! This place doesn’t disappoint, take it from a Salvadorean. Also the service was nice and friendly! Thanks Marisol. She was very attentive. I’m coming back to this place next time I’m in town."