El Salvador Corridor: Best Pupusas in Los Angeles
Looking for the best pupusas in Los Angeles? We’ve got you. The El Salvador Community Corridor may just be the best kept foodie secret in La La Land.
When you think of comfort food in LA, what comes to mind? Late night street tacos, a quesabirria from your favorite food truck? Loaded fries? A tray of freshly baked empanadas? Perhaps a juicy smash burger or a messy bean and cheese burrito?
For those in the know, that dish might just be the pupusa—a savory, stuffed corn tortilla that’s as rich in flavor as it is in cultural significance. Let’s dive into the delicious world of pupusas, exploring their origins, history, and where to find the best ones in Los Angeles.
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What Are Pupusas?
Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran dish that consists of a thick, round tortilla made from corn or rice flour, stuffed with a variety of fillings. The most common fillings include cheese, refried beans, jalapeños and locro (a type of greens), but there are countless variations featuring ingredients like squash, mushrooms, or even spicy chicharrón (fried pork). The tortillas are then cooked on a griddle until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Typically served with a side of curtido (a tangy, pickled cabbage slaw) and a mild tomato sauce, pupusas offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. The curtido’s acidity cuts through the richness of the gooey cheesy pupusa, balancing the meal perfectly.
A note for vegans: pupusas can easily be made vegan friendly when you order a beans-only pupusa. You can also opt for spinach and locro.
The History and Origin of Pupusas
The history of pupusas traces back to indigenous cultures in El Salvador, specifically the Pipil people, who have been making variations of this dish for centuries. The name “pupusa” is derived from the Nahuatl word “pupusawa,” which means “swollen.” The traditional preparation methods and ingredients reflect the deep agricultural roots of the region, where corn has been a staple for thousands of years.
The pupusa became a symbol of Salvadoran national identity, particularly in the 20th century, as it began to be widely embraced as a beloved national dish. In fact, El Salvador officially declared November 13 as National Pupusa Day, a testament to its cultural significance.
You might also like: SoCal’s Best Kept Taco Secret: Arturo’s Puffy Tacos , A Guide to the Best Argentine Empanadas in Los Angeles
Discovering El Salvador Corridor: A Cultural Gem in LA
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, the El Salvador Community Corridor is a hidden testament to the rich cultural blend that makes this city so unique. Stretching along Vermont Avenue (roughly from KTown to West Adams), “Little Salvador” is more than just a neighborhood. It’s a living celebration of Salvadoran heritage, offering a blend of tradition, cuisine, and community.
Its significance lies in the strong Salvadoran presence that has shaped its character over the decades. The Salvadoran community began establishing roots here in the late 20th century, bringing with them a wealth of cultural traditions, cuisine, and artistic expressions that have flourished in this part of Los Angeles.
One of the highlights of the El Salvador Corridor is its culinary scene. Salvadoran cuisine, known for its bold flavors and comforting dishes, is prominently featured in the numerous eateries and food stalls that line the streets. Small shops, family-owned restaurants, and vibrant street markets contribute to warm and inclusive culinary exploration vibes.
Where to Find the Best Pupusas in Los Angeles
Los Angeles boasts some of the best pupusas outside of El Salvador. Here are a few top spots to indulge in these delicious stuffed delights:
La Pupusa Urban Eatery
La Pupusa – you have our heart, literally! In addition to a sharable pupusa pizza (!), they serve a giant heart shaped pupusa! Just outside the El Salvador Corridor, on Washington Blvd, sits La Pupusa Urban Eatery known for authentic, flavorful pupusas with “a Los Angeles twist”. This no-frills eatery offers a range of traditional fillings, but in non-traditional sizes and shapes. Be warned – the pupusa pizza and the heart shaped one both take about an hour to prepare.
Vegans take note of their hearty Bowl Vegano loaded with Salvadoran style veggies and rice & beans. Other menu standouts worth traveling for: Salvi Breakfast Wrap, loaded yuca fries, chorizo smash burger and mananera (pupusa topped with a fried egg and salsa). Pro tip: they offer party catering and gift cards! We can’t think of a better gift than the gift of pupusas 😉
Los Molcajetes
Los Molcajetes on Hoover Street might be in the heart of KTown but they sure represent the heart and spirit of El Salvador Corridor. They’ve been serving up some of the best pupusas outside of El Salvador to the people of LA since 1979. This is no mean fete in a city with some of the highest restaurant turnover in the country.
They are one of the very few places (if not the only one) in LA where you can choose between pupusas made with corn or rice masa. They also specialize in Salvadoran style tamales, pastellitos, nuegados, yuca frita, empanadas and desayunos (get the Salvi Breakfast!). The pro move is to order the big Salvi Sampler and try one of everything.
La Pupusa Loca
Situated in the bustling East Hollywood part of Santa Monica Blvd, La Pupusa Loca has earned a reputation for its generous portions and hearty flavors. Don’t be put off the somewhat negative reviews, we happen to think the lacking service actually kind of adds to the vibe.
Their pupusas are praised for their crispy edges and well-seasoned fillings. Don’t miss their spicy salsa, which adds an extra kick to every bite. Wash it all down with house made horchata and don’t forget a side of fried platanos.
The Spot Street Pupusas
Nestled by the intersection of the 10 and the 405 in the ROSS car park, The Spot serves traditional pupusas with a smile. Expect all the classic fillings and combinations. The ladies here set up at night, right next to the famed Brothers Cousins Tacos. These are the best pupusas on the west side of LA (another one is Los Cocos – see honorable mentions below).
Their locro pupusas are a standout and they offer clearly marked vegan options. This family-run street cart also serves up excellent curtido and homemade horchata that enhance the pupusa experience. Although they take cards it’s a bit of a process so bring cash.
Salsabor Restaurant
This Venice Blvd gem is a favorite among locals for its consistently delicious pupusas. Salsabor serves up a variety of fillings, including vegetarian options like spinach and cheese and calabaza (zucchini). The friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a great spot for both new and seasoned pupusa lovers.
Excellent breakfast options such as Desayuno Campestre with platanos or Calabaza Scramble served with Salvadoran cheese and beans. Come for the pupusas, stay for the seafood. Their Camarones al Mojo de Ajo are some of the best in town.
Best Pupusas in LA – Honorable Mentions
When hunting for the best pupusas in Greater Los Angeles, also consider the following venues:
- Panaderia y Pupuseria Los Cocos, Centinela Avenue
- El Pulgarcito De America, Washington Blvd
- Pupuseria Don Carlos Village, Pico Blvd
- Pupusas Y Mas, Covina
- Restaurante y Pupuseria Azucena, Huntington Park
- Las Chinamas Restaurante Y Pupuseria, Slauson Avenue
- Restaurante Y Pupuseria Lemus, South Central Avenue
- El Rincon Usuluteco Autentica Comida Salvadorena, West Adams
- Restaurante Y Pupuseria El Maná, Jefferson Blvd
- El Palmar #2 Restaurant & Pupuseria, Western Avenue
El Salvador’s Culinary Treasure
Pupusas are more than just a meal—they’re a piece of cultural heritage and a testament to the rich culinary traditions of El Salvador. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a curious newcomer, exploring these delightful stuffed tortillas in Los Angeles will offer a taste of Salvadoran history and hospitality.
The El Salvador Corridor in Los Angeles is a vibrant enclave that beautifully encapsulates Salvadoran culture and community. Whether you’re a foodie seeking authentic pupusas, a street art enthusiast eager to go mural-spotting, or simply someone looking to explore a different facet of LA, this neighborhood offers a rewarding experience.
So next time you find yourself craving comfort food in LA, make sure to seek out these top pupusa spots. Your taste buds will thank you for the journey to flavor and tradition.
Want to explore Los Angeles food scene with a local expert? Book highly in-demand LA Food Tour: Exploring America’s Culinary Frontier or Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour
Would you add any other venues to the list of the best pupusas in Los Angeles? Let us know in the comments or tag @eightyflavors on socials!
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