When I first came to Chile I remember venturing into the barrio of Patronato and coming across El Gringo (at this time, it was one of the few shawarma options in the city). I always felt particularly connected with El Gringo (although I never did ask the owner if he was a gringo...). Not only because of the name but also because of the memories and that excitement of coming to Patronato for the first time.
I remember the shwarama being tasty and having extra flavor (something I was really missing when I first got to Chile). That is why, when I was in Patronato this past weekend with my partner, I suggested he get a shawarma from El Gringo. As I ventured back, unfortunately the fond memory I had made had made some of the details a bit blurry.
Although the pita was super tasty and the sauce creamy and garlic-y (just how I like it) it was the only thing I could try since I don't eat meat anymore. However, my partner was particularly disappointed with the quality-price ratio, mentioning the tiny wrap was not worth the 3mil we paid for it (especially since I took a large bit of bread and sauce).
If we are pack in patronato though, we will definitely give El Gringo another try. read more