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Welcome to El Gustito Pupuseria y Restaurant

At El Gustito Pupuseria y Restaurant, the heart of Salvadoran cuisine beats vibrantly within the cozy confines of their Coralville location. Known for their delectable pupusas, guests rave about the generous portions and authentic flavors. Signature dishes like carne asada and fried plantains further elevate the experience, complemented by inviting service that creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Diners appreciate the attention to detail, with fresh slaw and salsa accompanying every meal. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Salvadoran fare or a curious newcomer, El Gustito offers a delightful culinary journey that keeps patrons returning for more.

El Gustito Pupuseria y Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

Emmaline L.
Emmaline L.

El Gustito is my favorite pupuseria in the area, friendly people and super yummy eats! I really like the fried plantains, refried beans and pupusas and the atmosphere (booths) are unassuming and homey.

Gert S.
Gert S.

The food was amazing (we had the carne asada) and the service was great. We will definitely eat here again!

E. F.
E. F.

I agree with other reviewer. It is best place for pupusas. They're larger than other places I've tried and just a bit cheaper. They give you plenty of slaw and salsa. I also had corn tamal. It was good maybe a little dry but I ate cold probably better warm but my hotel room didn't have microwave. Also has plantains which were good too. Would recommend and definitely return for pupusas! It's also larger than other Salvadoran restaurants that I tried here with plenty of parking.

Erica L.
Erica L.

We tried some pupusas, curtido salad, and fried plantains. It hit the spot! Good food and good service. There are two good pupuseria's in the Coralville area.

Joe H.
Joe H.

Fantastic food, I took my daughter here for lunch and we both were pleased with our meals. Service was fast and polite and the restaurant was clean and orderly. We will definitely be coming back again

Cathy C.
Cathy C.

Great El Salvadoran food. Focus is their pupusas which are a great deal as well as delicious. Also had a more traditional shrimp and vegetable dish with rice and beans -very tasty and huge serving. Nothing fancy but solid food. Treat yourself!

Bocho G.
Bocho G.

Great food, the size of the pupusas its huge for the price I try 4 different ones and all of them were just perfect

Michele J.
Michele J.

Made to order, tasty ingredients. Tender, toasted on the outside, not greasy like pupusas can sometimes be. Very good value. We ordered 3 different pupusas to share for lunch, which was a reasonable portion, though I'd get more if I was really hungry. It was a great treat to find this place as we were passing through town.

Dan s.
Dan s.

Really like this place a lot. I've never had pupusas until a year ago but these things are so tasty. I've gotten the cheese, pork, cheese/spinach, and jalapeno ones. All we're very good. Pupusas are two corn flatbread that have a various fillings sandwiched inside. I see them as a food almost anyone can eat. A real comfort food. Also they're very filling too. I get three to share between my wife and I and we're set for lunch. It comes with salsa to top. And starting price of under $3 per pupusas make this a good deal. Worth anyone's time to stop by and and try one.

Sylvia J.
Sylvia J.

Was coming out of Hyvee with champagne for the holidays and out of the corner of my eye, I spotted El Gustito. They opened just this year, and specialize in pupusas. I got a five to go (their selection) and a corn tamale. Let me tell you, I drove like all madness to get home to try them. The smell is sooo good and they did not disappoint. Bread pillowcases filled full of various meat And cheese combinations -- really all you could ever ask for. Sour cream and salsas accompanied. They are so filling, so so reasonably priced, and you can tell they are made with love. Come here to takeout or dine-in, and support a locally owned new business.

Location

Welcome to El Gustito Pupuseria y Restaurant, a warm and inviting haven for lovers of Salvadoran cuisine located at 2020 8th St, Coralville, IA. This delightful restaurant specializes in pupusas, a traditional Salvadoran dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many locals and visitors alike. As you step into El Gustito, you're greeted by an atmosphere that feels both homey and unassuming, with cozy booths that encourage lingering over delicious meals.

El Gustito has quickly become a favorite among patrons. According to customer reviews, the friendly staff elevates the dining experience with prompt and courteous service. There’s a palpable sense of community here, with many guests returning frequently to enjoy the comforting flavors of home-cooked Salvadoran dishes.

  • Pupusas: The star attraction, praised for being larger and often more affordable than other local options. Diners rave about the generous portions of slaw and salsa that accompany each order, enhancing the authentic experience.
  • Fried Plantains: A must-try addition to any meal. These sweet, crispy treats have garnered compliments for their perfect texture and flavor. Guests consistently mention how these plantains make for a satisfying side.
  • Carne Asada: For those seeking heartier fare, the carne asada is a standout choice. Reviewers commend its flavor and tenderness, often noting that the dish leaves a lasting impression.

Even for those who opt to try other dishes, like the corn tamal, the consensus is clear: El Gustito offers a range of options that cater to diverse palates. Some diners have shared their experiences with minor quirks, such as the tamal being a bit dry when served cold, yet they affirm that every dish deserves another chance, especially when enjoyed fresh.

From the excited children of Joe H. enjoying lunch together to the ever-happy faces of regulars like Emmaline L., Gert S., and Erica L., El Gustito Pupuseria y Restaurant has established itself as more than just a restaurant; it is a loved gathering spot. With speedy service, cleanliness, and ample parking, the reasons to return are many.

If you're searching for an authentic taste of El Salvador in Coralville, head over to El Gustito Pupuseria y Restaurant. Whether you're a longtime fan of pupusas or trying them for the first time, this restaurant promises a pleasurable and fulfilling dining experience that will keep you coming back for more.