A Masterclass in Authentic Puerto Rican Comfort. From the moment you step inside, this vibrant eatery transports you directly into the heart of a Puerto Rican grandmother's kitchen. It is an exceptional culinary experience, paired with the kind of warm, attentive hospitality that has become exceedingly rare in modern dining. The staff here are genuinely delightful, executing a service model that is both highly efficient and impeccably clean. Operating as a curated, staff-served buffet line, the setup allows for effortless customization while ensuring pristine presentation. The value proposition here is outstanding, offering remarkably generous portions at a very approachable price point. The spread is impressively comprehensive, featuring an expansive salad bar, a dedicated dessert display, and a rotating selection of hot entrées. The technical execution of the food is flawless: * The Sides: The mashed potatoes and corn are a revelation--whipped to a light, cloud-like consistency that delivers a perfect balance of buttery richness. * The Staples: The rice is impeccably seasoned and cooked to an ideal texture, serving as the perfect canvas for the deeply flavorful, expertly prepared beans. * The Plantains: The fried plantains are a masterclass in technique, boasting a beautifully crisp exterior that gives way to a tender, caramelized interior. * The Protein: The roasted chicken is a triumph--so succulent and deeply infused with flavor that it commands the plate entirely on its own merit. With a weekly menu rotation that promises new daily variations, this establishment has deservedly earned a permanent spot in my dining itinerary during my month-long stay in town. I look forward to exploring the rest of their repertoire. read more

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I lived in Puerto Rico for three years so I know what to expect in Puerto Rican food. Came here expecting great food per reviews. The chicken and the pernil were dry...ask for fresh meat but "that's what we have" plus no white meat. Arroz and habichuelas were alright. The fideo was K. read more

Whenever I'm in the area, I love coming here. Food looks and tastes great! The place is well organized and clean! Love the fact that they play salsa and other Spanish food while enjoying a nice Caribbean meal! The serve was very friendly, professional, and knowledgeable of all the menu item. Great place for Puerto Rican/ Dominican food. read more

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The place is clean. Service very attentive with smiles. My Cuban sandwich with fried yellow plantain is a five star but I only will give a 4 star to the place till I'll eat at least one of the platers they offer. For now is a place to go. I recommend to come and give a visit!! read more

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Great hidden gem by the base. Friendly staff and service that got to know and help you decide on what to get. The food was absolutely amazing! Can not wait to come here again and try out more! read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Chuleta Kan-Kan - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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I've had their lunch buffet twice and I was pleased with both visits. I like the arroz con gandules, red beans, pernil, chicken and fried platanos. Puerto Rican sodas are served here and they got salsa music playing. For those who are frightened by buffets because of germs, don't be. This buffet doesn't have self serve and the employees behind the counter are happy to serve you and fill your plate. Clientele is mainly employees from Lackland in uniform. Price is between $14-18. read more

FREAKING DELICIOUS! Got the buffet lunch and it was so good! Even went back for a second plate, not because I was hungry, but because the seafood rice was so delicious and the chicken was so tender. The service has excellent! The staff was bursting with hospitality and I'm definitely coming back again. That seafood rice... I would buy a whole to go container of that stuff and be a happy camper. Some of the people I went with opted for sandwiches, which were so big, none of them finished. I need to go back and try the flan. read more

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Everything is definitely worth going to eat in the restaurant or take out served hot, they do not disappoint been there about 5xs

We drive almost an hour to eat here. Hospitality is great and the food is even better. Would definitely recommend the CanCan (KanKan)! Parking can be limited. read more

I'm Puerto Rican, this is the most authentic Island food you will find in San Antonio. The staff care about your experience. We got there 5 min before closing and they still made our food and sat down to eat. It's not a fancy place but do not let that fool you. Don't miss this fantastic food. read more

Ordered through Uber Eats. Took an hour for the food to be made, and then another 30 minutes for the delivery. Got the Cubano sandwich with fries, El Coqui sampler, Guava cake pastries and Tamarindo beverage. Unfortunately I didn't like any of it, everything was very bland. I really thought that Cubano sandwich was going to be amazing but even with the sauce it was bland like all the other items. read more

Food was delicious. My husband brought me here, as he has ate here with a few of his co-workers for lunch, and wanted to bring me here to try the food. This is my first time coming here, and definitely won't be the last. As mentioned the food was delicious. We came on a Friday during lunch time, and you have the option to either order through a set menu, or eat whatever is served at the buffet, which is $12.99 for all you can eat. Both my husband and I opted for the buffet, and I'm glad we did. I got the seafood rice, Puerto Rican rice, beans, fried tilapia, and fried sweet plantains, which were all delicious. My husband got the same and some other pork options they had, and he enjoyed them all. The only thing we ordered from the menu were the empanadillas (2 chicken and 1 beef) and tostones, which came with a green sauce. Both were good, however I wasn't a fan of the green oil sauce that came with the tostones, so we ate the tostones by itself, which was still good. *Note that the food being served at the buffet changes every week -- this is what I was told by the gentleman at the register. Ambiance was good. Service was great! Very welcoming and friendly. Parking is a little tight, which was the only downside, but nonetheless, I would definitely recommend giving this place a try. read more

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Great service. Great food. Always recommended. Clean always. Serving portions are always enough to share.

Service: the ladies here are always so sweet and welcoming. My husband loves coming here, he says the vibe reminds him of his family at home in NY and Puerto Rico. Ambiance: cozy, laid back. You feel right at home. It's nothing fancy, but the environment captures the essence of those mom and pop shops on the islands, let a lone those in an old city. Food: always yummy. Gives me a home cooked vibe, as if your Abuela made it for you. They have a delicious house sauce that adds a nice spice to your food. We come here often for the buffet. read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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The service is absolutely fantastic and friendly super helpful. The food was amazing very tasteful and just want I came for. Highly recommend everyone to try it out! read more

This place is located in an older strip of various stores on SW Military Dr; on the opposite side of the street from Lackland AFB. There are lots of mom & pop family type establishments there... (if you blink you might miss it). The hours on Yelp read 11-4pm and we arrived a few minutes before 3. From the outside the sign read closed. The store front windows have dark tinted windows so the place looked closed. But I could see that the pad lock was off and a peek of light was visible at the top of the tinted windows. Walking in my initial impression was it's a simple, fairly clean, no fancy arrangements... but definitely not an eye soars. I truly love Mom & Pop family establishments because they usually make you feel at home. I was greeted by Hector (I think he was the owner) and boy did he render me a welcome home brother greeting. He talked to me as if he'd known me for 20 years and I loved it. Seems this place focuses mostly on lunch time vittles served buffet style. Since it was close to closing time Mr. Hector fixed me up a generous serving of fresh yellow rice, black beans, roasted pork and some pork short ribs in a togo box. He even gave me another serving of yellow rice with more roasted pork in a small togo container. Thank you Sir!!! Hector also told me that they have various different items on the buffet on different days of the week but I was so focused on his generous servings! I can't remember much of what he said and the price was only $11.99. Driving home was a challenge because I was dying to taste the moist & juicy pork I saw him load into my container. By the time I reach the first red light I had the container opened and started eating the pork with my fingers... OMG hm hmm mmmm! PERFECT! I could not wait to get home and dive in more. Sitting down to sample my Puerto Rican lunchbox I felt so excited and as I began to eat I was completely amazed to find the pork short ribs were tender and nicely seasoned, yellow rice was cooked perfect with black beans on top and loads of moist and tasty roasted pork. My wife and I shared this lovely PR plate of pleasure and both agreed that this was the best $12 we've spent on lunch in a very long time. She actually said that by the rice & beans being cooked to perfection takes this plate over the top. I give Mr. Hector 2 thumbs up and I promise you this will be a regular place to stop and pick up some good home cooked style PR food. They offer various appetizers, popular PR plates and sandwiches but I'd suggest the buffet so that you can get a great sample of their common foods. I almost forgot to mention their home made salsa that was also very good. The taste was different but definitely good and a nice addition to the roasted pork. I've read several of the reviews and I will admit that some had me a little cautious about trying this place but I'm very happy that I trusted my instinct and not those negative reviews. Mr. Hector said that he tries to keep the price affordable and I will admit that I would not have a problem paying a little bit more. I even tried to tip him but he refused to accept and said that he doesn't like to accept tips for togo orders. There are so many good places to eat in San Antonio but but quality personalized customer service is hard to find! THANKS AGAIN SIR! read more

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This place was a quick stop for lunch and let me tell you it was absolutely amazing! The staff and owner were very friendly. I went to the front counter and ordered a Cubano. The food came quick. Once I got it, I left to eat in the car even though they have plenty of seating. The Cubano was soooo good. Amazing flavor, hot, and juicy! Highly recommended. read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Cubano Sandwich - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

My brother told us about this restaurant that had delicious Puerto Rican food so we drove an hour and they did not disappoint. My husband and mother in law loved the food . The minute they walked in said it smelled like home. The service was great the food was delicious, hot and came out fast. We will definitely come back next time we are in town. read more

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I came from California on a work trip and looked for some good Puertorican food and they did not disappoint! The staff is super friendly and patient next time I'm in town I will return thank you!! read more

This place is very delicious. I like going for the daily buffet and especially on Thursdays when they have the pork ribs on the buffet line. read more

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The food was a pleasant discovery. There is not many variety in Latin American food here so this was a wonderful find. I've had Puerto Rican food in Florida and this place was just as authentic. I had the buffet that's offered during the week for lunch and it was very good and tasted homey. Will definitely be returning. The staff was all very friendly and attentive. The aesthetic of the place was cute too, with all the traditional art as well. read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Coconut dessert - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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This place was amazing!! The food was fresh to order. We got there to late and was unable to try the flan. But I will visit again when I return to San Antonio read more

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We ordered 2 cubano sandwiches from here now let me say the food is good that wasn't the issue. My husband asked for extra extra pickles and a side order of fried plantains. Our sandwiches had 2 pickles in them and our side order of plantains well they gave us 6 pieces... the food is good but they're a little stingy with their sides or extras and the thing is we wouldn't have an issue paying for it either if they would have said it costs extra. read more

Cubano sandwich good . Recommend. Close to port San Antonio and just needed a good sandwich.

This is good (not great) Puerto Rican food. For the price it's a great value and I recommend it. There is a lunch buffet for $13. I did not try the buffet, but the waitress told me it changes daily, but always has at least 2 meat dishes, 2 rice dishes, and a few sides, plus a salad bar. When I went, the buffet had roast pork, roast chicken, white rice, arroz con gandules, beans, fideo, and madurus. A variety of domestic and foreign sodas are available for $3. I had the Cubano sandwich $13.25 which comes with a side of tostones. The sandwich was huge. It's a tasty chopped pork sandwich, but as a "Cubano" it's a bit of failure. But if you are not looking for authentic, it was a delicious sandwich and a bargain. The fried pork chop $17 came with rice, beans, and tostones. My friend rates it a solid 4 stars. The Isla Vieques (fried tilapia) $15 with a small side salad, arroz con gandules and tomatoes was very tasty. It had a perfect cornmeal coating. Interior seating is no frills. 4% service charge for credit cards. read more

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Below average puertorican food. Best thing we had were the tostones. Service is good but I don't think there is a puertorican in that kitchen. I had carne frita, waaaay overcooked, so much that it gutted my mouth. My husband was not impressed with his Cuban sandwich. It's so har to find good puerorican food in this town ;( read more

Family owned and operated restaurant. This restaurant offers authentic Puerto Rican food with friendly service, and it is super clean. It is located in a small shopping center and offers a lunch buffet, or you can order off the menu. If you visit during lunch, as soon as you enter, you will be greeted with the amazing food aroma that will lure you to the employee served buffet. 1000% recommend this restaurant! read more

El Coqui is located a few miles south of 90 under several Lackland AFB walking bridges. It scared me at first as I was driving down SW Military thinking I the road was going into the base, but nope, the base is located on both sides of the road tho. Don B. gave rave reviews of El Coqui so when we were planning our UYE First Friday Lunch Bunch, he ended up choosing this location over another that we originally planned. It was a last minute decision. Wow, getting me out of my comfort zone going to a part of town I probably haven't been since I was a small young child. We weren't the only ones there waiting for El Coqui to open... there was several large parties that came in with us and right after us. Since it's located practically on base, the restaurant is filled with military men and women. The place is small so get there early if you don't want to wait for a table. Service was excellent... The owner and co-workers all worked as a team to make sure glasses were filled, plates were cleared, and food was stocked on the buffet. The buffet was small and simple... three types of rice: white, arroz con gandules, arroz con mariscos (mussels); two types of beans: red and black; plantains, roast pork pernil carving station; fried fish; canned vegetables, salad; flan... a few others options that I can't remember. The hit of lunch was that "Red House Sauce", let's smother it on everything! if you ever find yourself in the area, SW SA, I'd defiantly recommend stopping by. read more

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This was one of those days where I just felt like eating something different. Most folks would probably just pass this place and think nothing of it. The outside isn't as inviting; but what awaits inside is worth it. I took my dad as well, he was skeptical. Both of us enjoyed our food and the help from the server/cashier. We will be back to try new things. Give this place a chance. They even scored a 100% on their health score. read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I absolutely love supporting small businesses! Especially, when you can tell the family puts in some hard work to go the extra mile. The location might be the only drawback; however, the food and the atmosphere is great. The employees and friendly and attentive and the cost is worth the value. Did I mention, the food is awesome?! Try the buffet, or order from the menu.. whatever you are comfortable with! I recommend this place for delicious PR food! read more

El Coqui Restaurant - The Buffet - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

I'm going to be brutally honest and up front given that I'm Puerto Rican myself and this place was touted by multiple people as "the best Puerto Rican restaurant in San Antonio." The Food: I had a chicken breast mofongo and purchased 10 empanadas for work, 6 beef and 4 pizza. I should've listened to the red flag that popped up when I asked about the juices on the menu, and the lady directed me to CANNED GOYA JUICES. *Sigh* Frozen fruit pulp mixed with water is fresher than canned Goya juices. As far as the empanadas...my co-workers started saying how they were empty with no filling. So I called the restaurant and informed them whoever made the empanadas needed to put some more filling inside...well, the lady says they purchase pre-made frozen "Kikuet" empanadas...welllll, that pretty much sums up this place. Gordon Ramsey would have a field day here. Lackluster food purchased pre-made and sold within a profit margin. Location: It's a small restaurant in a small confined shopping center with limited parking, which is even more limited when you consider the state of the gravel. The holes and "hills" in the parking lot makes it look like there's moving tectonic plates underneath. Inside you'll find it's a weird setup, almost 90's vibes with the decoration and the tables/chairs. Maybe some other dishes are made fresh to order, but I'm not sure about the ingredients used given the pattern of pre-made items. I'll have to check out the other spots around town to see if they follow this pattern. read more

Is this place open ? I checked the times before I left and it said open 12-4 drove all the way down there and they were closed.

The menu items may be fantastic but the Monday buffet was miserably bad. Poorly seasoned pork and chicken with decent rice and beans. Desserts were even worse. Great service. The food actually made my girlfriend and I sick....So that was the first and last time we'll be there. read more

OMG...I was sooooo full leaving this place after lunch today. So, typical hole in the wall restaurant that was amazing! Parking lot can get crowded and has limited spaces but I made my own spot on the side. Lunch buffet was tasty and Thursday is rib day. They also had a choice of yellow or white rice, black or pinto beans, green beans, plantains, chicken tenders and a carving station. They also had a small dessert area and a small salad area. The owners/mangers were super friendly and very down to earth. Seat yourself with lots of tables that can also accommodate groups. Pay at the register and they accept CC. Close to base if you have limited time during lunch! I will be back! read more

Really good Puerto Rican food! Very casual laid back restaurant with no frills. Come inside and seat yourself. We came in for the weekday lunch buffet. With tax and no drinks, the total was around $55 for 5 of us. The buffet is not a large selection, but man was the food good! Today's selections on the buffet included 2 types of rice, green beans, plantains, roast chicken, stewed pork, and lechon-the star of the show! It is not a self serve buffet. There is a person behind the buffet who scoops you what you want. The lechon is at the end of the line and is carved with an electric knife. I'm not eating meat the moment, but the others in my party said the lechon is so good and moist. I asked the cashier, and she said they cooked it for 7 hours. There's is also a station with a basic side salad and 2 types of desserts. This is self serve. read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Dessert choices - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

So I've been here twice. I didn't write my review for my first visit because quite frankly it was rather a disappointment. I met up with some coworkers here for our first visit and we all decided to try the buffet out. My husband is from Puerto Rico, I've been to the island a few times and my MIL has also taught me how to cook the food so I'm familiar with the flavors. So when I didn't get any of those flavors or even a hint from the Arroz Con Gandules or the Pernil, I was a little taken back but mostly disappointed because I know the food always has flavor! They didn't have flan for the dessert tables at the time. It was basically frozen mini cake desserts, thawed. The kind you see at a Chinese buffet. A huge let down. I had ordered toastones and they were fried perfectly!! I was hoping for some mayo-ketchup sauce with garlic, but many that's my families staple ‍. Regardless, the owner, I'm presuming, was incredibly warm and inviting. Service was great! When my family from PR came into town a few months later, they wanted to come here but I said no. Thankfully, their stubbornness brought me back and I'm glad they did. I decided to order the MoFongo con Carne Frita and this is what I was looking for! The MoFongo was full of that garlic flavor, roasted and cooked to perfection. The Carne Frita's were seasoned fabulously! It was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I enjoyed this meal very much! The portion was generous! Enough to feed 2 people. Sorry, I didn't take any pics of the food! I wanted to dive right in and completely forgot about it midway through! Everyone enjoyed their meal and said it was reminiscent of home. My MIL got the buffet and said it didn't disappoint either. Maybe the day I went with my coworkers was an off day. Everyone has those, right? But I'm glad I went back! I'll definitely come again to order the mofongo! read more

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Great food and great service. Will be back for sure. The place was crowded but when you are comfortable and looking forward to the food the little wait is worth it. Great buffet as well. read more

Everything about this place is awesome... every dish I have tried has been extremely delicious. To top it off today my husband went there to get us some mofongo de camaron and when he went to the door the young lady that was leaving said sorry we are closed, he was disappointed, THEN Hector to the rescue... he invited him in, the young lady made our orders and we just finished having our dinner... and it was superb! Excellent food and outstanding customer service...that's what I'm talking about!!! Try this place you won't be disappointed, if I could give it 10 stars I would... read more

Great food and outstanding service. They have excellent Puerto Rican food and the atmosphere is very Latin

Excellent Family Puertorrican Food Restaurant. Owners made food so delicious, your mouth will melt with the taste. My Family and I were taking care off immediately and get seated by the owner. Place is really clean and beautifully decorated with views of PR. I am definetely coming back..! read more

El Coqui Restaurant - Mofongo with Seafood! Mofongo con mariscos! - Puerto Rican Near Me - San Antonio, Texas

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