We stumbled upon this place after shopping at the Citadele outlet mall. We were craving colombian good and this one was very close. The location is not the best but that doesn't mean anything when it comes to food for us and a good experience. First able the place was not busy but the owner (seemed like the owner) was with other two guys watching soccer and too busy to tell us where to sit, finally a waitress came out and said we could seat anywhere. The AC was not working right and it was super hot, the restroom was not clean, and the place itself looked like it needed a throughly clean up. The empanadas were good as well as the arepas, as far as the main entrees they were ok and portions decent. We all ordered the bandeja paisa and the steak was chewy and on the tougher side. I don't think we would come back here. read more

Amazing food and service. I recommend this place as is one of the few with very authentic food options! I recommend their empanadas and their bandeja Paisa, and their tamales, pretty much everything is good here, enjoy it! read more

Food was great, I was obsessed with the empanadas. Definitely Going back tomorrow morning for more. read more

El Molinito - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

Great food fast delivery & presentation Thank you & look forward to another purchase read more

My first encounter with Colombian food. Oh, what should I expect? What am I getting myself into? *Begin Sidebar* I really need to stop trying all these new places because I have like two dozen reviews in draft still! *End Sidebar* I came here because I was looking for something new to yelp. I should have stuck to my salad regiment because I'm such a fatty now...thanks a lot yelp! =/ Anyway, I digress... El Molinito is located in a shady strip mall that appears to seldom see traffic. You get a sense of Tijuana...but cleaner. Parking is available in abundance. As I walked in, I noticed there were only two patrons in the dining area. This was right before noon. I was greeted by a lady who spoke to me in Spanish, but she did address me in limited English. Like prior reviews have stated, she was not Colombian, but Mexican. I ordered the Molinito Combo because I wanted a broader taste of what Colombian food is all about. It has Chicharrones, Lengua en Salsa, Sobrebarriga Sudada with white rice and salad. Chicharrones: 4/5 As stated earlier, this is my first encounter, so whether Colombian Chicharrones are supposed to be as hard crisp as these were is unbeknown to me. I really liked the flavor as they oddly tasted like Japanese chicken karaage! I delighted in the fact that they are not as greasy as Mexican chicharrones. I did not care for the texture being as hard as it was. Lengua en Salsa: 4/5 Whoa, this tongue was super tender and required very little chewing. The problem with this was it didn't taste much like the red sauce it was stewed in, however, those potatoes were pretty flavorful. I think this is tomato-based but I cannot confirm that. Sobrebarriga Sudada: 2.5/5 Alright, this mystery meat is forcing my lazy arse to Google what this is. Apparently, it is supposed to be flank steak. I beg to differ. It looked and tasted more like pork, but it had the texture and look of a super big rectangular thin slice of chicken thigh meat. It was extremely stringy and did not taste like the yellow stewed potatoes that it was served with. There were tons of small diced onions in the sauce. White Rice: 3/5 Soft. Fluffy. Buttery. Salad: 1/5 This was more of an afterthought and merely cut up iceberg lettuce drowning in ranch dressing. Some pieces of lettuce were starting to brown as if it were day old. I also purchased a can of Colombiana Soda, but I still have yet to it. I don't know what to expect of this soda but I suppose it's Colombia's answer to the Peruvian Inca Kola. Its reddish-orange color differs from the golden color of Inca Kola. Final thoughts: Well, this was an experience. Nothing really exotic or strange here but I have to say that I although I was not full from this meal, I didn't really feel like eating anything the entire day/evening. I had a blah feeling in my tummy...again, not that the food was bad or anything... I suppose I should try Bandeja Paisa, Colombia's "national dish" next time... El Molinito: 3.5 stars (rounded up to 4) read more

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I'm a Colombian in the exile and yes I miss Colombian food, a lot! sometimes my friends and I get collective nostalgia and start running around trying to get our "fix" El Molinito is a good "fix" Not as good as the real deal, but good enough to tame my demons ;) We went there to watch the game Colombia - Bolivia, I called to make a reservation to make sure we ha a big table NEXT to the tv * Note: the tv is not very big! we got there everything was nice and ready, we order a picada for 4 (yes we were 4 but we end up leaving with boxes) others ordered bandeja paisa and lentil soup with liver (not my choice!) the Picada was great! they have Aguila (YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!) and a good selection of juices (jugo de lulo, de mango,but they didn't have curuba.. :'( ) Overall it was pretty good, No Colombian workers, which is pretty weird. I'll definitely will go back there :) read more

El Molinito - Picada for 4 (more like for 8) - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

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Overdid muy decepcionada con la comida de este lugar , nada fresca , todo estaba frito con aceite viejo y quemado aparte tuvimos que comer lo que había porque traen un menú y no había nada de lo que estaban ofreciendo en el , aparte pagamos 105 dólares por una comida que tuvimos que llevarnos a tirar , los chicharrones secos que cuando los mordías no podías ni tragarlos , los patacones son recalentados y fritos con aceite quemado igual que la yuca , y la papa la verdad no se cómo un restaurante puede vender este tipo de comidas read more

Tengo años viniendo a esta lugar y La comida esta muy buena Pero la MESERA es bien sangrona no se toma el tiempo para agarrar la orden en las mesas muy mal el servicio no vuelvo a este lugar read more

A small Colombian restaurant near the Citadel Outlet Mall. After a few hours of shopping we decided to come here and try it. There is plenty of parking which is good for LA. Food is ok! We tried the pandebonos and luckily they were freshly baked and were good, the empanadas were mainly stuffed with potatoes and bland. Our main meals were bandeja paisa and grilled chicken, both meals took awhile despite us being the only customers at the time. The AC was not working and the ceiling fans barely made a difference making the place feel hot. The restaurant could look more clean as well. I would not come here again. read more

I really wish this restaurant was better, there aren't many Colombian restaurants in socal but I'd rather take a flight to Colombia than EVER dine here again! The service was absolutely HORRIBLE, the waitress was extremely rude with a terrible attitude until it came time for the check. So much so that we didn't even want to dine there anymore because she ruined the evening. We were not given water despite requesting, the food took forever, the pandebonos came burnt, the eggs were raw, and the mango juice was made with mango biche which made it extremely bitter, instead of sweet, and she refused to switch it for another juice telling me she would charge me for the mango regardless. I was left extremely disappointed after trying to have a nice dinner and this place left a terrible impression of Colombian hospitality and food to my friends. I really hope the owner hires staff that embody Colombian culture and service for a better experience because great service and attention to detail can go a long way! read more

Consistently great home cooked meals. Their aji is bomb af and their empanadas are even better

I was craving empanadas, so I made the drive to El Molinito. I walked in to the dining area part of the restaurant, there's two entrances, but no signs directing you to the main entrance, I awkwardly make my way to the main entrance, walking by tables of people having lunch. I approached the cashier area where a young girl greets me. I ask her about the empanada fillings, she doesn't know so she asks a woman walking by, who replies they're sold out (bummer) so I ask about arepas de choclo, they are also sold out! I ask for something comprable, she recommends the arepas de queso, I ordered 2 plus an order of plantains and cream. My order took forever! when it finally came out the young girl repeats my order and says "2 arepas, correct"? I reminded her I also ordered the plantains, she looks confused and says she didn't put the order in, asking me if I still wanted them (no apologies) I asked how long it would take and she said another 4 minutes, I've already waited forever so what's another 4 min, she places the order and walks away, instead of charging me. A few minutes later the plantains come out, the young woman hands me the bag and says "thank you have a great day" I remind her that she hasn't charged me, so she asks her mom/owner to charge me, the mom tells me it's $7.99 but I need to spend $10 to pay with a debit card then walks away??? I'm left standing there puzzled, the young girl whispers something to her mom, the mom comes back takes my debit card and runs my card, she then walked away, after a few minutes she comes back and hands me a receipt for an even $10!? my total is $7.99, she opens the cash register and hands me $2 cash, offering no explanation whatsoever, umm okay... Overall the woman who I presume is the owner/mother of the young woman had a terrible attitude, the food took forever, the place is a small and outdated typical whole in the wall, the slow and poor service definitely turned me off. The food was good and served hot, maybe a bit too hot for the styrofoam though, the plantains melted the styrofoam box. read more

El Molinito - Whoops! The food is so hot it melted the styrofoam! - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

My favorite place to get Colombian food. Big portion and super nice people! The food is the best quality and good pricing.

Nothing like a culinary journey to Colombia!!!! That probably didn't make any sense at all!!! That's the state it puts me in!! I happen to be Mexican but love to "go out there" when it comes to the culinary part of my life. So far, this hasn't been my favorite dish! I love how this restaurant offers this green salsa that tastes really really fresh!! I really recommend this place!! read more

El Molinito - Picada for 2 - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

The empanadas were so yummy and fresh. The drinks were a big portion size and refreshing, great portion size for the hungry. Hostess was polite and made sure we had everything we needed. Prices were fair and reasonable. Would recommend. read more

El Molinito - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

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Absolutely have not lost their touch!! A place to relax, to talk to your date, to enjoy the Ambiente!! As you walk in you are treated as if you walk in to someone's house, 'welcome, please take a seat, may I offer a drink'? The food is delicious, the plates are big, full of yummy Colombian treats. Such as yuca, papas, morcillas, patacones, the salad and vegetable are a generosity treat. The waitress, outstanding service!! She does need help!! Nevertheless, she did not forget us, she looked on us over and over. Very pleased with her customer service!! In addition, their specials where delicious. My hubby fell in love with the Empanadas. read more

First time ever trying Colombian food. Very pleased. This place is a great place to experience Colombian food. Very authentic. Service is great. Will definitely be coming back... read more

El Molinito - Also very tasty - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

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This Colombian restaurant is as authentic as it gets I swear I felt like I was at home and my mother was cooking for me. Veryy good . Huevos Perricos on point with the arepa con queso y hot chocolate is comfort food. Gracias read more

Definitely worth the drive from the South Bay Area! Nice cozy spot. Very good portions with more traditional home style dishes and flavors. Prices are very reasonable. Very attentive customer service. Would definitely come back here!! read more

Love this place...when I'm missing Colombia I come here and feel at home! Food is delicious and the service is great!

Best Colombian food in LA county. My mom's side of the family all came here from Colombia a little over 30 years ago and we have all been going to this place forever! Never disappoints. read more

Definitely good traditional Colombian food. The serving sizes are the typical large servings so you get your money worth. The service was fast and good despite only having one waitress. We'll be back! read more

So sad to see thos place has 4 stars. The waitress was so friggin rude. She practically just tossed everything to me instead of handing me plates and drinks. She had a super short temper. The food was ok, although to be fair it was my first time eating Colombian food. Very bland. The only thing that saved it was adding the green salsa to EVERYTHING. the mango drink was super thick and after a few sips, was no longer a delight. Definitely would not go back. read more

The best Columbian food I have ever tried, and I just love this place!! My co worker recommeded me this place so I came with my dad. We had a good experience and I am surely planning on coming back. The moment you walk in you are seated immediately. I have been here a few times and I never have to wait to be seated. Brownie points for that! No one likes waiting :) I've been helped by two different waitresses and they have both been really nice, welcoming, and helpful. Ask them for food descriptions or just suggestions and they will be sincere. The food here is literally on point, from their drinks to their entrees to their desserts. My parents and I have tried all the juices and we've been very satisfied. Natural fruit juice made everyday- not too sweet and not bitter- just perfect. I love their fajitas! It's a must try! And their pan de bono is delcious, you definitely need to order this. It's a soft sweet little bun bread, you'll be craving more later. For prices here I want to say it's leaning more towards to the expensive side but it is not necessarily expsensive. And the portions are huge. let's leave it that.. Overall if you are in area, try this legit Columbian cuisine! You will not regret. read more

I've been to only a few colombian restaurants and this one wasn't my favorite but I did enjoy their Picada. Their morcilla could be fresher and the service could be ALOT better. Chicharron was overcooked.. Price is affordable but this place could improve on a couple of things.. read more

So good buenísimo mucho sabor buena atención buena música a tiempo autentico delicioso

I love this place! As a Colombiana all the food is delicious. I gave only 4 stats because there should be Colombians working at a Colombian restaurant. My opinion & I'm sure most Colombians would agree. To answer previous question of how can a Colombian restaurant run out of Colombian soda, it's because Colombian products are imported. So running out is expected especially a very small place like this. The solution: they have lots of choices. The food is great & always gives great memories of Mi Tierra Querida. read more

Being a Colombiana who is so FAR Away from her "Mother Land", I have to admit that I absolutely Love this restaurant!! The food is soo Delicioso!! I highly recommend it to anyone Colombian or Non Colombian. With the small amount of Colombian restaurants available here in Southern Cali that are good and worth the drive to eat at, I don't mind at all that there are Not Colombian staff working there. The waitress who works there is very nice and attentive that's all that matters to me, that and that the food is good and authentic. The flavor is great. I've been to other Colombian restaurants in the Los Angeles area and while they have great Ambiance, their food was lacking in flavor, Not this place. It's delicious. My mother drives from Corona just to buy their Empanadas!! That's how good it is! She never learned how to cook when growing up in Colombia, before getting married, then leaving to come to America with me, so we both really enjoy getting our Colombian eating/dining experience here at this place or when we go back home of course. Their prices are great too! They even sell Arequipe and cafe and other yummy foods from back home. I will remain forever a fan and customer of El Molinito!! read more

The hubby and I were here for breakfast they were just opening. We were greeted nicely and our order was taken right away. We ordered (2) Bandeja Paisa and (2) Empanadas (1) Maracuya. Our Empanadas were out first they were hot and crispy and perfect with the green sauce. The Bandeja Paisa is a huge portion it was delicious. It's a meal that will keep you full all day. My overall experience was great food was out fast and everything was as good as expected. Will definitely be back again. As I type this review I'm craving more Empanadas lol read more

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I live in NJ where we have a lot of colombian restaurants. came here with my boyfriend not expecting much bc it doesn't look colombian at all. but we were blown away with the food. It was just like my mom's food. The food was excellent from the hot chocolate to the rice it was greatttt. Definitely read more

Born in Colombia raised in Queens NY, always look for that home cooking. Would give this place a second visit and my recommendation. Not a luxurious place but good enough. Bandeja paisa pollo empanizado, sancocho .. all good. read more

I'm Colombian and can honestly share with you El Molinito has the best prepared and quality Colombian food anywhere in Southern California. I've tried all the other over the years and know when I want good Colombian food, El Molinito's won't disappoint. The owners and staff are very friendly and attentive, the portions are huge and the prices are very reasonable. Don't let the modest exterior appearance fool you, it's truly a wonderful find and certainly worth experiencing. Oh, don't miss out on their homemade empanadas, there fantastic! We don't mind the 180 mile r/t drive from the San Diego area, the food is that good and everyone is so friendly. read more

I will say is OK Good food. Good costumer service They closed kinda early at 9pm And the place is kinds small besides everything else is ok read more

Great service, delicious Colombian food as expected,Recommended to all my Colombian and of course anyone else who loves good food

Wow!! My family and I are regulars and have never had a bad meal. The empanadas and aji sauce are delicious, the arepas de chocolo delicious, the pan de bono delicious, I could go on and on. I've introduced many co-workers to this restaurant and their empanadas have become a staple at our potlucks. So great to have found a good Colombian restaurant! read more

This is hands down the best Colombian food I have eaten in California, the Picada is the best! The service is always great and everything is authentic, empanadas are absolutely wonderful prices are great for the amount of food you get! Would always recommend Very homely ambiance and tv from colombia reminds my parents of home read more

Yummy! The best Colombian food in town. As a Colombian born, I've been in search of home tasting food , El Molinito didn't disappoint . A small casual location with a good and positive ambient that one can truly enjoy. Highly suggest the empanadas to get you going. The picada for two was plentiful with generous portions for at least 3. In short for those Colombian food aficionados this stop is a must. Don't forget your liquidado de guanábana along with a Colombiana. read more

They have really good empanadas . Place is traditional like any other small business . I believed the owners are Colombians cause the place has the Columbia flag Plus of the menu and dishes . Place is ok and food is good . They serve good portions . read more

El Molinito - Special salsa . - Colombian Near Me - Pico Rivera, California

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This is the best colombian restaurant I have had and I have been to many all around southern California. The food was perfectly priced and the quality was great. The mango juice was so fresh, the arepa was perfect. The food came out super fast and we had great service! read more

Great food great service specially Rosita her smile is always welcoming. I normally order the lengua en bistec but can't go wrong with the appetizers. read more