This spot definitely prioritizes presentation over flavor! So dont be fooled by social media. I was skeptical after seeing it on Instagram but still gave it a try. While the octopus was cooked well, it lacked the zarandeado flavor to it. the shrimp was flavorless but not super terrible after soaking in store bought marisco salsa negra, it was doable. The biggest disappointment, however, was the drinks. My drink tasted like diluted orange juice with bitters with no trace of alcohol, it was el Barrilito. When I asked the server if I could swap it or have it removed since it was undrinkable, I was told, “no, porque no esta malo”. My response was, but it is malo lol. Its alright though i wasnt going to fight it. It’s a shame because the drive from Oakland to East Palo Alto wasn’t worth the overall letdown, especially when compared to the better options we have back home.

Wow! First time here and I was blown away by the excellent food I was served. I was not expecting this level given the location and the humble appearance of the restaurant.

Out of their huge menu, I selected three dishes and they all came out within 10 min! All the food tasted delicious. Seasoned perfectly. Cooked perfectly. The orchata drink w/ coconut was excellent too and loved that it was lightly sweet.

I ate half of everything and took the other half home in clear plastic containers. I ordered a second orchata to go. I never take food home from a restaurant. NEVER. I always leave a lot of food behind and let it get thrown away. Always. But I scrapped the plates clean off of all the food that was left because I wanted to eat it all later for dinner. It was all that good. The only thing I left behind was the massive random onion (?).

Overall, outstanding food.

The waitresses and bartender were welcoming and courteous and always ready/available.

Will definitely return.