I had not tried Peruvian food before, as we ordered, they brought out roasted corn with this yummy secret sauce, that has a bit of spicy goodness to it, we could not stop eating it, it was so good, we ordered a small to go. We ordered and the waitress was kind, attentive, and informative on their plates. I opted for the chupe de camarones, it's a creamy sauce with a bit of spice, topped with jasmine rice and a poached egg, I could not stop eating it, it was delicious. I will definitely be returning to El Mono to try some of their other plates. read more

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Taya was an amazing server and the food was outstanding. Thanks for such a great experience.

WOW FACTOR? Yes. Outstanding chicken rice soup. A bowl of this would be wonderful! HAVE AGAIN: I love the Maracuya - so good. Have the larger glass next time. Saltado de Pollo is delicious. Vainitas de Pollo is also really good, but is not available as a lunch option. Owner's attention is much appreciated. NOT HAVE AGAIN: Chica is good, but why have this when I can have Maracuya? read more

What an amazing experience! Came here for dinner and Desiree and the rest of the staff were so welcoming and helpful. They were able to seat us immediately without reservations. Big space indoor and outdoor. Come hungry!!! Every dish was amazing! To start we got the calamari and ceviche... both amazing a huge portions! Paella... yummmmmm! The steak and chicken dishes were equally as amazing along with the pesto pasta with more steak! The pesto pasta was so rich and could taste the fresh basil. We will definitely be back. Thank you, Desiree and staff for a wonderful meal. read more

First time coming here! Love the food and drinks as the environment as very peaceful! The employees were very friendly and helpful giving suggestions as asking if we had Peruvian food before. The Anticuchos mixed plate was a hit and shared for 3 people as it was delicious with every bite! The owner suggested as a new opening in Berkeley as can't wait to try it as near by my area. As gave us two bar chips whenever we come back for the free bar bite ! read more

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Love coming here to eat good food. Niueka was our server and she was friendly and attentive. Definitely get the miti miti drink!

The food was so tasty! And Taya gave us excellent dessert recommendations. The Lomo Saltado was a highlight

Excellent service. Matt went above and beyond in making sure to correct a slight inconvenience and miscommunication in our orders. Terrific customer service and communication. read more

Delicious Peruvian food in a quaint food plaza. With a bar, happy hour, choice Peruvian colorful lemonades, and live music on Fridays (this I wanna experience), El Mono will have you coming back. The lomo saltado and Peruvian corn finger food were very tasty. The resto is small but fun with beautiful traditional Peruvian decor which I appreciated. The servers were very attentive and even informed me they're opening up another location in Berkeley next month! Yesss. read more

El Mono - Lomo saltado and salty corn bar finger food - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

We had my sister's birthday lunch here. The food was delicious and our server, Taya was fantastic!

As a native Peruvian, I am a little jaded when it comes to my food in a restaurant and El Mono did not disappoint. From the beautiful smile and great customer service rendered by Isabella to the quaint atmosphere, the experience was wonderful. Their Lomo Saltado sandwich that followed after a hearty aguadito was finger-licking good. Their choice of wines was also a highlight. Muchas gracias Isabella read more

El Mono - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

It was a bit of a reach coming to El Mono but with these many reviews, we really made the effort to taste the fresh flavors of Peru. Located at San Pablo Ave. just off the Cutting Blvd. exit on I-80, we were able to get a parking spot in the private lot that is shared with other businesses. We came for an early dinner so we were able to be seated promptly. The place was spacious with plenty of tables and bar seating to boot. Frito Sampler (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Uq3u_kbGVGLjEDVU45WLog?select=pmO6Dmjr6mkhAPAel7CmTg) - These are fried starchy goodness - sweet potato fries, cassava, and plantain! The creamy cheese sauce was also superb. Lomo Saltado (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Uq3u_kbGVGLjEDVU45WLog?select=GMwqYAfuAjfUnFOEqW_2yg) - The classic Peruvian beef recipe! Taking it up a few notches, they use Certified Angus Beef here. The meat was perfectly stir-fried with the rest of the ingredients and was very tender. Best Chifa dish ever! Chupe de Camarones (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Uq3u_kbGVGLjEDVU45WLog?select=lkF4fQRmzxHI-JRynBt33Q) - Creamy red chowder with succulent shrimps... If it's not creamy enough, how about we add a poached egg on top of the rice? It was our first time having this and it did not disappoint at all. Jalea (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Uq3u_kbGVGLjEDVU45WLog?select=LqDqUDgKe1pInXK1k-gOHA) - Fried... check! Seafood... check! This was an easy choice and an excellent one at that! Shrimps, mussels, clams, fish, calamari, and some more yucca for the win - they were lightly battered, well-seasoned, and came with pickled red onions and a dipping sauce. Peruvian Paella (https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Uq3u_kbGVGLjEDVU45WLog?select=HVv63_petUFL7vrPqrkNYQ) - Also known as Arroz con Mariscos, this had seafood for days - squid, clams, mussels, and shrimps! Visually, the main difference between its Spanish counterpart was the rice - this had long-grain jasmine rice instead of bomba. Served on a sizzling platter, we let the bottom part sit for a bit so we could get the socarrat to form. This was cooked with housemade aji panca chili sauce and their special white wine which gave the distinctive flavor. Rice was precooked before everything else was added because we spotted some lumps of white rice that did not get mixed well. Despite this flaw, it still came out tasty. We just had to break down the clusters and mix it some more. There were plenty of interesting items on the menu so we really need to make another concerted effort to visit. We had a fantastic time back then so the next one needs to happen really soon. It's so long overdue that my photos got taken out in my review draft... another one sitting around that I have forgotten to post. =( We usually get the rotisserie chicken when we go to a Peruvian restaurant, but we had to pass because other options were available. We have to try it next time along with one of their noodle selections. read more

El Mono is one of my favorite places in the Bay. The staff is always so kind & accommodating but this visit was like no other. Taya is phenomenal and made feel like I was at home. She was so attentive and sincere. She also made me the best Maracuya Sour that I'd ever had. I truly appreciate her and will definitely be returning! read more

I wish I had a picture of my food, but it's GONE. I was in the mood for lobster bisque. There was not lobster bisque but they had something that was (in my opinion) even better! The dish was chupe de camarones! IT WAS SOOOO YUMMY!! I wish I had a bigger appetite because everything looked so yummy. We also tried their fried plantains (delicious) and their jugo de maracuyá which was AMAZING. Miguel and team were incredibly attentive and I felt like we were being highly catered to. I will come back and support this business. read more

This is one of the best restaurants in the Bay Area! The food tastes amazing, and the customer service is top-notch. Tuty is incredible--she really made experience special!" Thanks a lot read more

El Mono - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

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Too pricey and very basic for what they charge many better options in the area . Food was decent at that

One of the best Peruvian restaurants we tried in the Bay Area. We came here for lunch on a whim and were we pleasantly surprised! Food was amazing and our host Marlene was super friendly and helpful! The place is new and clean. We are definitely coming back. read more

El Mono - Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina and Pescado Frito - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

The best Peruvian food! And Niueka provided the best costumer service! They make your experience unforgettable. We go back all the time. We highly recommend this place! If your near please come and visit this place. read more

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I've been to El Mono twice and ordered takeout another time and have found the food to be consistently delicious. The calamari is cooked perfectly, lightly breaded with a delicious sauce. Ceviche is tasty and the paella with fried fish is so good, and presented with a sizzling flourish. We also had the saltado veggies, tuna causa and a lamb shank dish. We shared everything family style. Portions are plentiful and they have a delicious cilantro sauce that goes with everything, as well as house made hot sauce. I have yet to try the desserts because I'm always so full from the delicious food, but do look forward to trying them at some point. The juice drinks are very refreshing, service is friendly and helpful. Overall I think El Mono is a gem, I would not hesitate to go back and bring friends (so we can try more dishes!!) read more

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We came here last minute and were greeted by the staff. Marlene was our waitress and she was super sweet and nice! Food was overall great! We had the causa acevichada which is my favorite and the ceviche de pescado. read more

This is my first time here and I have had only limited experience eating Peruvian food. The parking lot is small but we were able to find the restaurant with GPS. It is located on San Pablo Avenue, in El Cerrito, right after Knott Avenue, located in the Del Norte Norte Plaza, across from the Honda Dealership. There is outdoor dining but my friend and I decided to eat inside. I made Yelp reservations for 12:30 pm on a Saturday afternoon but there was no problem as it wasn't crowded at the time. We sat in cozy booth near the door after Mayra guided us to the table. After several minutes, we were wondering where the menus were and then noticed that there was a QR code on the table to look at the menu. But then we were wondering if we had to order online but when I started looking at the menu, it was for ordering take out or delivery. So we went up to the counter and asked and Mayra said she would take our order. It was our first time here, so we had no idea whether anyone was going to take our order as 1) no menus were given, 2) no one came to ask us if we were ready to order. I checked in and got a free Chicha drink and it was very tasty! The menu says organic made from scratch, Inca Purple Corn Drink with a hint of cinnamon - believed to have healing powers and super rich in Antioxidants! It was very refreshing! My friend ordered a coffee and we also order Fried Calamari or Calamar Frito and it was a very big and delicious portion! For entrees, my friend and I had basically the same kind of meal except hers had noodles and mine had rice and potatoes. I had the Saltado de Pollo, and she had the Tallarin de Pollo. Both were hearty portions and tasty and we had to take home the leftovers! Great company, good food and service needed to be more attentive. read more

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Our server Marlene was great, made a great rec for the paella. The food was so satisfying and portions are generous.

Have been to El Mono in El Cerrito a few times now. My favorite is the roasted chicken. I get a side of plantains - with the dipping sauce it is a taste explosion. I usually get the chimichurri sauce as well for the chicken. read more

Greeted by Taya, our delightful waitress. Service was fabulous, food was delicious and special cocktails were amazing. This was my first time at El Mono however I have had Peruvian food numerous times in San Jose, bur I have to say, this was the best! The calamari and yucca fried were great starters ! We enjoyed them with our cocktails, an Inti and a Chilcano. We then moved on to our entrees, Tapado a la Pobre and the Lomo Saltado. Generous portions and awesome service! Thank you so much Taya! We shall return! read more

Friendly and welcoming team. The food was ok. The place was clean and inviting. My daughter liked her salchipapas. read more

Amazing food, ambiance, service! Really reminded me of Perú!! As a Peruvian, I love it. read more

El Mono - Maracuya and Inti - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

We ate here tonight in honor of my late friend, De Anza HS Principal! I relived my memories with you. Amazing food and service. Feels like home too. Ambiance is comfortable... I like that I am not rushed. Thank you El Mono staff and Marlene! read more

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Parking: There is a free shared parking lot with other businesses in the area, but beware the parking spots are very tight. There is also street parking available Arrival: Had a reservation at 6:15 pm on a Friday. We were greeted immediately upon arrival and we picked a table where there was a live salsa musician playing. That section was loud, exciting, and a total vibe! You scan their QR code for the menu. Manuel and his team were all super friendly and attentive. We had all of our menu questions answered, which helped us place our order quickly. Food came out in a timely manner and it was delicious! We also came to celebrate a birthday and they brought out a treat! The staff and musician sang, which made the birthday special. What we tried: (from favorite to good) * Seco de Res- The food was savory from the beans to the meat. Meat was super tender and it was a regular sized meal. * Steak N' Onions (added mushrooms and shrimp)- Had lots of flavor, good portion, and steak was juicy. * Lomo saltado- Meat tasted really good, but a little on the chewy side. The sauce was very tasteful, fries were perfect (they were between a crispy and soft texture), a regular sized portion. * Peruvian Paella- Really big portion and taste was satisfying. Had a good variety of seafood, but beware there are bits of shells throughout the rice so chew with caution. Other items ordered: * Lemon margaritas blended- 10/10 was not watered down. Happy hour is Mon-Fri from 5-7 * Maracuya- non-alcoholic passion fruit drink was really rich in flavor, but very sweet * Lucuma Ice Cream- Super rich and creamy with a caramel taste You can sign up with your phone number to receive coupons and accumulate points as well! The only bad part of the experience was that the sun was setting on a hot day directly onto the 2 tables near the window. The Patrons and the musician were SWEATING after being in direct sunlight during the visit. I hope they put up sunshades or window tint in the future to make the experience be perfect. It was our first time here and we loved it! We will be back! read more

El Mono - Left to right: Peruvian paella, Steak N' Onions (mushroom and shrimp added), Lomo Saltado, Seco de Res - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

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We came to el mono for lunch for my mom's birthday. Marlene was very accommodating and friendly as we had multiple requests for additional sauces and utensils. The cooks Pablo and Jose made delicious lomo saltado. read more

Todo muy rico la comida deliciosa y el servicio excelente de Marixa y niurka :) el ambiente agradable y tranquilo

food was amazing as always and Taya laughed at my bad jokes! The desserts were excellent, and you can never go wrong with the classic entrées read more

Taya, our server was absolutely amazing! She was friendly, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the entire meal. Her positive attitude truly made our experience enjoyable. Excellent service -- we will definitely be coming back! read more

El Mono - Tallarin Verde con Lomo and Poor man's steak - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

Tried the Peruvian corn nuts and homemade sauce extremely amazing. The chica sample was yummmy tastes a bit like hibiscus and cinnamon. Also love the ambiance. Looks so pretty inside a lot of Peruvian artwork. I love the color of the interior of the restaurant. Food was DELICIOUS! the food was so fresh. Loved everything we ordered. read more

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They might be a bit short staffed but they sat us right away, even without a reservation. Food was amazing, as always. Taya, Karina y Dani were awesome and so friendly! read more

Taya was excellent. Friendly and knowledgeable about her menu. You're coming back for this great service and food soon. read more

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Amazing! Manuel and Marlena were among hosts. Get off the highway and come to the this location. First time, but won't the last! read more

El Mono - Seafood Paella - Peruvian Near Me - El Cerrito, California

Nice Peruvian spot tucked in a small unassuming business / apartment center. The food comes out fresh and hot, The lomo saltado has good flavor and paella was pretty good not great. Lacked seafood. I would come back and try other options. read more

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Such a wonderful place to dine. The service and the food were amazing. This was our second time having Peruvian food with my partner and we are definitely fans. 10/10 would recommend! read more

Varied menú - pescado al achiote -fillet was small compared to fried filet peruano at lower cost. Papa a la huancaina. Waitress did not mention lucuma ice cream. Expensive. $50.00 without alcohol read more

I brought my parents here a few years back and have returned alone and as part of a group of six. It's an unassuming, cute little spot with a surprisingly wide variety of veggie and vegan offerings. I've had the veggie chaufa twice (with a fried egg). It's really delicious and is filling without feeling greasy or starchy. I've also had the green-beans dish and sampled some of my fellow diners' pasta-and-mushrooms entree. On my first two visits here, it was quite a while before we were able to place our orders. After that, though, the service sped up and continued apace. There was absolutely no wait when I came with the big group. All of the employees are friendly and are more than willing to explain different items on the menu to you. Whether you have questions or need family-style suggestions, the servers are patient and cheerful, and you never get the feeling that you're taking up too much time. The prices are on the high end and don't seem to take into account how much the ingredients cost. Once again, we vegetarians subsidize the meat eaters. Yes, some of the meat dishes cost significantly more than the veggie dishes, but why is shrimp so cheap here? (It seems to be costlier to add a single egg to a dish than to add a bunch of shrimp.) It's definitely a lovely and unexpected place, and you can tell the owners take pride in their beautiful, clean restaurant. read more