Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    El Criollo Bar & Grill

    4.0 (346 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 8:00 PM
    Updated 3 months ago

    Order El Criollo Bar & Grill Takeout or Delivery

    El Criollo Bar & Grill Photos

    Business Info

    EL CRIOLLO BAR & GRILL ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Live music
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like El Criollo Bar & Grill

    Recommended Reviews - El Criollo Bar & Grill

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Vegetariano Frito plate at El Criollo Bar and Grill
    Rocky B.

    Absolutely loved El Criollo! We went on Saturday just as it opened and were greeted by this older woman who I believe might have been one of the owners. Her energy made me feel like I was visiting one of my Tia's. Okay so for food I ordered the Vegetariano Frito which was white rice, beans, yucca and plátano. I also ordered a Mojito. First off..I have not had a Mojito that good in years! So good I ordered a second. My entree was delicious...I mean everything on that place was yummy. The beans were perfectly seasoned. The fried yucca and plantains were crispy but not super greasy. Writing this makes me want to go back right now. It's not a Vegan restaurant but they have Vegan and Vegetarian options so it's a great place that will have something for everyone. Ambiance was nice. I guess they have dancing at night? Might have to come back for that to get my cha cha on. The restaurant is located in a strip mall so it's easy parking.

    Pechuga de Pollo Empanizada
    Daniel L.

    I'm born and raised in Miami, grew up eating a LOT of homemade Cuban food from several families. This restaurant immediately took me back to those authentic meals I grew up with. The service was excellent and the owners did so much to make sure we were taken care of. Best Cuban food in LA hands down.

    Rita H.

    I ordered to go because I was running late for another appointment but the proprietor is the sweetest. The bar has a nice variety and the food looks fresh and delicious. It's in a small space in a strip mall,so it's a little hidden. I love that they bring out tostadas (toasted French bread) and whipped butter. Reminded me of Miami.

    Ropa Vieja
    Angelina S.

    Delicious!! Amazing staff fantastic service and the best flavor! 10/10 La comida fue una delicia el servicio más amigable me sentí como en casa!

    Fricase Pollo and Pollo Criollo with the most amazing Plantains!
    Trina E.

    It was my turn to pick dinner for date night and I picked this place. We both wanted chicken and something not fried or unhealthy and to be honest, I am tired of salads! I had the Fricase de Pollo and bf had the Pollo Criollo. Both plates were delicious and the portions so generous and we needed to go boxes! The chicken on both plates was juicy and very flavorful. This was very good comfort food and we plan on going back soon. Did not have any alcoholic beverages but perhaps some day we will have to try. I almost forgot, the plantains were delicious!!! Our server Alberto was very nice and the service was good. This is not fast food. We will definitely go back here and enjoy another very good Cuban meal. :-)

    Ropa Vieja Old Clothes
    Dilenia A.

    So happy to have found this little gem close to home! Goodbye Porto's, hello to this hidden gem in a strip mall, 10 minutes from home! Have to go and try their Ropa Vieja (traditional Cuban meal) and Moro yum and their croquetas as an appetizer, omg, too good to pass up! And the prices are spot on! Such a cute "momandpop" home restaurant with the traditional food with their cafe con leche, THE BEST!!! Found my home away from home restaurant, can't wait to go back and try the rest of the meals! I'm going to be such a regular there!!!

    2 Pieces Empanadas, pretty petite but really yummy!

    See all

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    I had a delightful lunch here. The ropa vieja was so yummy. Prices are good. If you're craving Cuban food, this spot is perfect.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Natasha G.
    484
    58
    37

    8 months ago

    The best empanadas and cortadito ever. The sauce that comes with the empanadas are amazing

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Great food authentic Cuban food reminds me when I was growing up definitely recommended it

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Excellent food; excellent handmade margaritas; great latin music at a reasonable listening level.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ely F.
    213
    17
    2

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Gina M.
    188
    8
    10

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joy O.
    0
    79
    24

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Cyn R.
    0
    76
    77

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Michael M.
    140
    268
    140

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Great food and service. Definitely some comfort food , most of the dishes are 10/10, I like the green salsa they have.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 9

    El Criollo Bar & Grill Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - El Criollo Bar & Grill

    Is this the criollo that used to be in Van Nuys?

    Same owners, but this is a full bar place

    What days do they have a live band, do they still have it?

    Thank You...very much appreciated..!!!! , are used to go to the original one I believe which was at the intersection of Van Nuys Blvd...but I haven't been to this new spot in Burbank since they've been there, hopefully the food is still just as… 

    View All 4 Questions

    You might also consider

    Inkwell Tavern

    Inkwell Tavern

    4.8
    (323 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $$

    If you are looking for a spot that completely nails both atmosphere and hospitality, Inkwell Tavern…read moreis an absolute must-visit. From the moment we walked in, we were captivated by the incredible tavern and speakeasy feel. It has that perfect moody, welcoming energy that makes you want to settle in for the night. The service was nothing short of amazing, with the staff going above and beyond to make our experience top-tier. The food completely blew us away, easily earning a 10 out of 10. We decided to share a few different dishes and went with the empanadas, the burrata salad, and the Mediterranean plate. Every single item was phenomenal. The empanadas were perfectly crisp and flavorful, the burrata was incredibly fresh and creamy, and the Mediterranean plate tied everything together with such a great variety of tastes. It is rare to find a place that delivers so flawlessly on all fronts, but Inkwell Tavern genuinely exceeded our expectations. Whether you are coming in for the standout food, the fantastic service, or just to soak up that great speakeasy vibe, this place will not disappoint. I cannot recommend it enough and am already looking forward to our next visit.

    We found this place last minute to watch the final FIFA World Cup game when we were turned around…read morefrom another spot. Thank god we got turned away because this place is a hidden gem. They do have parking behind the building which seems to fill pretty quickly if they're busy, but it's easy to find parking around the neighborhood. I am not usually in the tavern scene so I was surprised that we had to order and pay at the bar, but it wasn't a big issue. My friend and I split the kale caesar salad and the macaroni and cheese. For the table, I ordered the waffle fries after being informed by the kind waitress that that was the better choice over the pretzel (which she also said was amazing). Since the place was filling up for the final, the kitchen was a bit slow, but we barely noticed with how attentive the staff were in getting us drinks and refills. When it came to food, we were pleasantly surprised with this place and is honestly the reason I'm writing this review. The first things we got were the Beef Tallow Waffle Fries, Caesar Salad, and mac and cheese. Obviously the fries were much better, however the salad was also divine but just swimming in dressing. Back to the fries, we all were mindblown with how tavern fries could be this good and had so many flavors. Even the skinny queens in our group kept snacking on them which tells you how good these were. Mac and cheese came and it was standard and creamy but not necessarily something I'd return for. The surprising thing on top of the fries that majority of us loved was the Vegan Tomato Scampi with shrimp. It was fire and had me questioning if it was even Vegan. Would definitely return here if I find my way back to SoCal from the Bay. Great unassuming place with great food and vibes. Their bathroom as well is super clean and nice! Love this place!

    Photos
    Interior
    Interior
    Peruvian Steak Stir Fry
    Peruvian Steak Stir Fry
    My Whodunnit Mocktail - lime, ginger, spicy agave, and soda - spicy and refreshing!

    See all

    My Whodunnit Mocktail - lime, ginger, spicy agave, and soda - spicy and refreshing!
    Broken Compass Tiki

    Broken Compass Tiki

    4.2
    (654 reviews)
    0.6 mi
    $$

    - Broken Compass Tiki…read more My girlfriend and I absolutely loved Broken Compass Tiki. I originally found it on TikTok, followed up with a few YouTube videos, and knew I had to check it out the next time we were in Burbank. It completely lived up to the hype. Parking can be a little challenging since it's in Burbank, but we got lucky and found a street parking spot nearby. If you don't get as lucky, driving around the block or into the surrounding neighborhood should eventually turn something up. We arrived about 20 minutes after they opened, and there were already several people inside. By the time we left, the place was filling up quickly, so it's definitely a popular spot. I surprised my girlfriend by keeping the destination a secret and just telling her we were going somewhere fun with a unique theme. She loved it. From the moment we walked in, the service was outstanding. Both the bartender and our server were incredibly welcoming. Our server asked whether it was our first visit and took the time to ask what kinds of drinks we normally enjoy before making recommendations. I really appreciated that he wasn't just trying to upsell us. Instead, he explained why he thought certain cocktails were better choices based on our preferences, and every recommendation ended up being spot on. As you'd expect from a tiki bar, the cocktail menu is heavily rum-focused, but there are also non-alcoholic drinks, a small beer selection, and wine available if rum isn't your thing. I ordered the Zombie Magic first, which was delicious and definitely packed a punch. After that, I tried the 100 Year Cigar, a Scotch-based cocktail that was perfect for slowly sipping. Both drinks were fantastic. My girlfriend ordered the Painkiller and the Navy Grog, and she loved both of them. We started with the Shut It Polly wings, crispy chicken wings tossed in a spicy Thai peanut sauce, and they were outstanding. We also ordered the Aloha Dippers with the Cajun seasoning. I paired mine with the Chipotle Citrus Aioli, while my girlfriend chose the Firecracker sauce. Both dipping sauces were excellent and complemented the fries really well. For our entrées, I ordered the Pub Burger with Irish cheddar, onion strings, and horseradish aioli, cooked to order. It was excellent. My girlfriend ordered the Shrimp & Lobster Roll, and we both enjoyed it. The only item that didn't quite meet our expectations was the macaroni salad that came with our meals. We've had some incredible macaroni salad at Hawaiian restaurants, and this one just didn't quite compare. It certainly wasn't bad, but it was the one part of the meal that didn't stand out. One thing that really impressed me was how accommodating the staff was regarding my raw fruit allergy. I explained what I could and couldn't safely eat or drink, and our server took it seriously. He made sure every cocktail recommendation was safe for me without sacrificing flavor or experience. That level of attention made me feel comfortable ordering drinks I otherwise might have avoided. The décor is also worth mentioning. The pirate-themed exterior transitions into a fun pirate-and-tiki atmosphere inside that really adds to the experience without feeling overdone. Overall, this place exceeded our expectations. The drinks were strong and creative, the food was excellent, the service was some of the best we've had in a long time, and the atmosphere was a blast. There are still plenty of cocktails on the menu that I'd like to try, so we'll definitely be back the next time we're in Burbank.

    Such a fun place! Great for a fun pirate themed night. Perfect for large party hang outs or small…read moregroups. Themed drinks and very detailed aesthetic. This place really made you feel like Captain Jack Sparrow was going to jump out at every corner. It so themed for a tiki bar, but if pirates and mermaids had a place to hang out this would be that place. From the decor to the detailed bathroom sounds and the menu item names. You couldn't escape the theme anyway and I loved it! We were gathering for a friends birthday and there was 30 of us. Couldn't believe we found enough seats for us in the back area but we did. The staff was there to keep drinks flowing and keep food coming. The portion for their poke nachos was unreal. Do i wish they put a bit more poke on the dish? Yes. But it was still one of my favorite dishes of the night. The drinks were all so cute and they had ample non alcoholic mocktails as well which were yummy. If you want a speakeasy feel (you lieterally go through a secret door in the wall) and an under the sea eperience while ctching up with friends, you can totally do it here. For my friends birthday they rang some bell and all sang happy birthday to her which was so cool. Why was the bathroom the coolest part? They literally have ocean sounds and seaguls for you to hear while using the restroom. Theres even a fan in the bathroom to make you feel like you're next to the ocean because I kept fighting that darn toilet seat cover to stay put. Such a fun night and will be back for the vibes. Special s/o to Amanda and all her crew the night we were there. They helped out with photos, drinks, and keeping food going all night. She had such a great team with her that night. Everyone was helping us out even finding us chairs and clearing tables so we could make room for more food.

    Photos
    Big Toe mug release
    Big Toe mug release
    Fish tacos with fries
    Fish tacos with fries
    Pupu platter for 2

    See all

    Pupu platter for 2
    Magnolia Corner

    Magnolia Corner

    4.4
    (144 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    We've gotten takeout from here a few times - I'm a sucker for Cobb salads - but this time we…read moredecided to come in and eat there. For a Sunday, it was pretty mellow, which I love. Our waitress was nice and attentive at the right time. We got a Cobb salad and a chicken plate. Their chicken quality is soooo good. The Cobb salad has all the right amount of toppings and they mix in the dressing, much appreciated! Every bite has the dressing on it. I sub for blue cheese dressing, and it has a hint of mint that is perfect to balance out the heaviness of the egg, bacon and cheese crumbles. I also add crispy chicken. The chicken plate with hummus and pita is also really good. It's a thin slice of chicken, cooked just right. Their fries are crispy and flavorful. Their portions are big, so it's good to share. They have a ni outdoor patio too. Music they were playing was a good mix and not too loud. Enough to be able to hear it, but still have a conversation. Overall, recommend this place for lunch!

    It has a Western curb appeal with saloon doors that greet you from the sidewalk…read more Interior reminds you of a standard bar with a cozy outside space with cafe lights, TV and games in the back. We didn't grab food but we did grab a few cocktails for a Friday after work adventure. The drinks had fun play on words for names and were charming in their own way. A good local, neighbor friendly bar not too far from the studio tours if you are looking to get off the beaten path.

    Photos
    Bar
    Bar
    Flatbread - so good!
    Flatbread - so good!
    I Got A Feeling (left), Drunk on You (m), Bottoms Up (right)

    See all

    I Got A Feeling (left), Drunk on You (m), Bottoms Up (right)
    The Snug

    The Snug

    4.1
    (230 reviews)
    2.0 mi
    $$

    The Snug really lives up to its name by being a small, cozy and friendly Irish bar. Some might…read moreclassify it as a "dive," but that would be unfair -- it's a local place, sure, and totally no frills... but I counted more than 50 bottles of Call and Top Shelf Irish Whiskies, plus just as many bottles of Bourbon, Scotch, American and Japanese Whiskies, and a quartet of Pappy Van Winkle... this ain't no dive. Still, the drink prices are very fair. Barkeep Elizabeth was friendly from the get-go, and checked on me repeatedly to make sure I had what I needed. The digital jukebox was playing lively tunes, and the daytime crowd was laidback and chatty. There's no food in this pub, but packaged snacks (chips, nuts, etc.) are readily available, and I'm told you can bring in anything you like to eat. Fantastic!! Despite being on the "road to nowhere corridor" (Magnolia Blvd. between Hollywood Way and Cahuenga), and being incredibly easy to drive past, The Snug is a welcoming little bar with a genial crowd that's very much worth keeping your eyes and GPS peeled to find. You'll be as glad as I am that you did.

    Love the Snug!! It's the best! From the owner, Tony, and the people and patrons who hang out…read morethere! The only thing they need to change is watching the World Cup in English. Watching it in Spanish is not bad, but so many of us speak English!

    Photos
    Allagash
    Allagash
    Nice selection of whiskey.
    Nice selection of whiskey.
    St. Paddy's Day countdown

    See all

    St. Paddy's Day countdown
    The Rendition Room

    The Rendition Room

    4.7
    (683 reviews)
    4.0 mi
    $$

    We've been coming to The Rendition Room for years, whether for work events or date nights, and…read morebecoming members nearly three years ago was one of the easiest decisions we've made. It's become so much more than just one of our favorite bars and every visit reminds us why we keep coming back. The biggest reason, though, is the people. Hospitality is something that's hard to fake, and the team here does it effortlessly. From the moment you walk through the door, you're greeted like an old friend. Over the years, the staff has created an environment that feels welcoming, comfortable, and genuinely personal, and that's something that's become increasingly rare. Matt, Sabrina, and the entire team are all such gems. Scott also deserves special recognition. He's a huge part of what makes The Rendition Room such a special place. Whether he's introducing a new cocktail, sharing the story behind a spirit, or simply taking the time to check in, his passion and care for every guest shine through. It's people like Scott who transform a great bar into a place you truly feel connected to. On our most recent visit, we tried the new Decade & Debauchery cocktail, celebrating The Rendition Room's 10 year anniversary, and it's phenomenal. Balanced, and beautifully executed. In a city full of great bars, they have managed to create something much harder to find, a sense of community. After all these years, it still feels just as special as the first time we walked in.

    The food was excellent the best spaghetti and meatballs I've ever had the mushroom risotto was very…read morecreamy and if you like mushrooms it's the way to go. The Ambiance was very authentic quite enough to have a conversation. Scott are barkeep was very attentive funny awesome to talk with. he made one hell of a drink. Scott's Service was excellent and there was great crafted alcohol.

    Photos
    The Room 1
    The Room 1
    The beautiful bar. A work of art
    The beautiful bar. A work of art
    The bar

    See all

    The bar

    El Criollo Bar & Grill - cuban - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...