my favorite dish here is the Fettuccine A La Huancaina. i love this place! the people that work here are always so kind. they give you complementary bread and 2 sauces. read more

El Rocoto - Fettuccine A La Huancaina - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

Anniversary dinner last night was great as usual. Saw many one or two star reviews. Wondering whether owners have shifted their attentions to their new Seafood bar in Huntington Beach? Been a customer for over 25 yrs. Gotta say the aji green salsa is still good. But not as good as it used to be. Same yummy rolls. Ordered my usual since we're only here a few times a year now. Back when I was working in Bellflower, I was here every Monday for lunch. Tried most things in the menu. Ordered: Ceviche mixto- tangy, not spicy unless you bite into the yellow habanero. Which was so large I thought it was a bell pepper! A mix of shrimp, scallop, squid, mussel & white fish. It's still a fav. Tallarin mariscos- pasta with mixed seafood in a soy sauce based sauce. Off menu and still very good. Lomo saltado- hubby ordered this. Said it was good as usual. Unsure about other comments regarding toughness of meats. Decor has changed a bit. Half wall divides length of restaurant. Possibly to create a sense of intimacy in this one large room. We will still come back. Not for nostalgia but because we still enjoy the food here. There's a possibility previous reviewers have a misconception about restaurant life. Not sure they've notice the price of groceries in general have increased. Most entrees $20 +. Similar to other restaurants. Gone are the days of $12-15 entrees. Realistically need to consider prices of gas too. Cuz foods arrive in trucks. Also finding and keeping good chefs/staff is hella difficult. Hopefully the owners can balance their skills amount three restaurants. read more

El Rocoto - 8/26-Tallarin mariscos (off menu) - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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first time trying this spot that my boyfriend and his family frequents and so glad i got to try more authentic peruvian dishes than just lomo saltado! the restaurant has a homey feeling to it with a decent amount of seating/tables and very nice staff. we started out with complimentary bread with two different types of sauces (the green one tasted like the sauce you get with lomo saltado and the orange one tasted like some kind of spiced tomato creamy sauce). - cebiche mixto: 10/10 so many different varieties of fresh seafood and love the citrus tang and added sweetness from the sweet potato plus great texture from what i think were corn nuts -tacu tacu especial: 9/10 bigg portion with savory tender meat with the creamy sweet rice? that really paired well together - pescado macho: 9/10 also big portion of very tender fish and a good assortment of other seafood with rice covered in a creamy sauce would love to come back and try their other dishes! read more

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I can't believe it's been almost 10 years since I last visited El Rocoto! A former colleague and family was in town this week so I decided to take them here as they love Peruvian food. Needless today, this family owned business still operates with excellent and friendly customer service. Our server was very attentive, made a couple of rounds to check up on us. We ordered the following to share together: Pescado a lo macho: Shrimp, squid, mussel, scallops, and octopus with aji Amarillo creamy sauce on fish fillet. Quick a filling fish and delicious. Plenty of food to go around. Pollo Saltado: Stir fry chicken with onions, tomatoes, French fries, and rice. The chicken was cooked well and seasoned well. I love the sweetness of the cooked onions. Lucuma ice cream: Delicious creamy flavor to end the evening! Huge portions so you're getting your money's worth. Flavorful fishes and not too greasy. The parking can be packed especially on weekends but you can park in surrounding areas. Since we came on a weeknight, it wasn't crowded and no issues with parking. This delicious hidden gem is quite a drive from where I live but totally worth the drive whenever it's about meeting up with folks for a delicious meal. I will definitely be back. :-) read more

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Random dinner / date night pick ! Immediately walking in we were greeted and sat , the host was very friendly and helpful when it came to trying to figure out where to order . The baked fish however wasn't on the menu but recommended by the waitress and she did not disappoint, the flavor was absolutely amazing and blended so well . The LOMO SALTADO is my go to when coming to a Peruvian restaurant and it also did not disappoint, filling and very flavorful . I would definitely come back to try some other things on the menu . Over all experience 10/10 clean environment, friendly host , delicious food . read more

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Have not been here for quite a while. First thing we noticed was the divider in the restaurant which to us makes it a little bit smaller but does not affect much it's just a preference, some people like it the new way some people like it the old way. :-). Our server was very friendly during our arrival. Once we were seated we placed our orders. Chouffa de marisco and the fried calamari. And for starters we got the Papa's Rianna's. The Papa's Rihanna's were good. The chouffa de marisco was to be honest, not very flavorful. It actually was on the Bland side. The calamari some seem very chewy in some of it seemed just right. Not sure why. One of my biggest pet peeves is having my water glass filled. Once we got the food we never saw the waitress after that. She was working a large group that was having a celebration and a few other tables but did not even look our way. I ended up going to the person working at the cashier and ask for water after a very long time. Even after that it took a while for them to bring our water to the table. Then we had to flag someone down to ask for the check and nobody came so I ended up bringing it to the cashier and paying their. I asked for change for a five so I could leave a tip. That became a little bit of a project as well. And we left a minimal tip and we are good tippers but the lack of service was just really hurt us. The food was just okay but not as good as the other Peruvian placement that we go to. We unfortunately won't be back. read more

El Rocoto - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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The food was delicious, and the portions were huge....definitely worth the money! Everything was flavorful without being greasy. The warm bread with the dipping sauces was such a tasty and unique touch. The atmosphere was calm with upbeat music, and the service was incredibly friendly and accommodating. We tried the recommended dishes, and they did not disappoint. Will definitely be back! read more

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I've been here now three times and I love it. Their chicha is very tasty and bold. I love their calamari and usually we run into the same hostess she's very kind and friendly even when my grandma is constantly bugging her about when we are sitting down and others too. She keeps her composure and is kind to everyone to props to her for that. The waiters are very kind and funny. It's always busy when I go here and the decor is nice. read more

El Rocoto - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

Came to visit this family-owned restaurant (Chef Jorge Chan) as I was curious about Peruvian cuisine. We ordered the cerviche (Mixto Cebiche), soup (Chupa De Camarones), Arroz con Pollo, and Tallarín Verde w/ beef steak to share for two people. The mixed cerviche comes with big chunks of fresh halibut, and plenty of shrimp and octopus. The sour and tangy flavor is perfectly balanced the glazed sweet potato and Peruvian corn and corn nuts. Definitely a must-try if you like cerviche! The soup (Chupe De Camarones) has a thick and creamy (shrimp chowder) texture, with plenty of peas/carrots pieces, fried fish, and a scrambled egg on top. Very hearty and just perfectly seasoned. We ordered the regular size and the portion is plenty enough even for two people to share. The specialty courses Arroz con pollo (rice cooked with cilantro sauce with chicken) and the Tallarín Verde (pesto spaghetti/parmesan cheese with breaded beef steak) are just as delicious as all the other dishes. The pesto spaghetti is al dente, and the pesto flavor is just devine! If you like cilantro, you cannot go wrong with the Arroz con pollo. Both of these dishes come in big portions, plenty to share for two people. Good service as our waitress was very attentive. Great value considering the cost. Good atmosphere, and plenty indoor seating. Parking in front of the establishment can be crowded, but there are also plenty of parking spaces in the surrounding area. If you are craving for Peruvian food, this is the place to be! Also since this is family-owned, please come and support your local small businesses. read more

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El Rocoto was my go-to Peruvian restaurant in college and has served me well for many years! Parking can be tricky since they share a lot with other restaurants, but the service is consistent and I never have to wait too long for a table. Their arroz con mariscos is a must-order! I prefer this to Spanish/Cuban paella, but that's just me. Their alfajores are also delicious. read more

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Stopped here on a whim. Food was delicious, the ceviche was my favorite. The lomo saltado was made with quality meat and it did not disappoint. My husband ordered the tallarin plate and he really enjoyed it. They serve bread with your meal and my son liked it so much we ordered seconds. The service was great, our server suggested what dishes to try and we were pleased with his suggestions. The restaurant was clean and the lights set the vibe for a great meal. We'll definitely come back again. read more

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Go early so you dont have to wait. We try to make it once a month and we have something different each time. Our server, Jorge, was so attentive and gave a great recommendation. We had the seco de carne and lomo Saltado. Soft but upbeat Spanish music playing in the background to create such a great atmosphere. read more

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I used to like this place. I came in 4 people were eating. Me being the 5th. Two other walked in 7 min after me, sat down the waiter rushed to table obviously mistaken me for a white man I am Italian I speak Spanish Italian and multiple other languages. Only to hear the short stocky waiter say, I am here for my people first in Spanish. Weird flex! Lost a good costumer and someone that frequent your establishment often. I have no hate in my heart or life I employee 40 and more people all races sizes and character. Mind blowing. read more

Service was spot on, my jameson & seven served fast and stiff. The tacu tacu seafood was hit of the night, the oxtail was over salty. Everything else was tasty and made for a great family dinner....but the bill? $167. read more

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A friend and I met up for lunch. We sat down right away. Staff was very friendly and welcoming. We ordered a ceviche mixto and shrimp with rice. My ceviche was ok. It needed more flavor or spice. Just felt like it needed more of something. Shrimp rice plate was good. Bread and sauces are always a hit. The restaurant is very popular and busy. Family friendly environment and nice and clean. I'd come back but not for the ceviche. read more

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The server Jorge made our families experience so memorable!! Thank you for the amazing food and service for our big group. The tacu tacu especial was delicious and tasted authentic as well as the lomo saltado and seco! read more

El Rocoto - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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El Rocoto is one of those places that doesn't need to be flashy to be good .. it just is. The food is clearly made by people who know Peruvian cuisine, not a watered-down version for mass appeal. The lomo saltado is the standout: tender beef, perfectly sautéed onions and tomatoes, and that balance of savory and comforting that makes you keep going back for "just one more bite." Portions are generous and meant to be shared (or enjoyed slowly). The space itself is cozy and unpretentious it feels like a neighborhood spot where the focus is on the food, not trends. Service was attentive without hovering, which I really appreciated. It's both family-friendly and date-night approved easygoing enough to bring kids or parents, but still intimate enough for a relaxed dinner with someone special. Prices are on the higher side for brunch/lunch, but the quality and portion size justify it. This is the kind of place you bring someone when you want them to experience real Peruvian flavors, not just take Instagram photos. I'll definitely be back to try more of the menu read more

Casual , Peruvian food spot . I was there for lunch, my server Claudia was sweet and provided the kind of warm service I was craving. The menu has all the Peruvian known staples but I went with tallarin verde and Papa a la Huancaina. Something I don't see or cook often and It was yummy , reminds me of my family home cooking Glad I stopped there, I will be back read more

El Rocoto - Tallarin Verde & Papa a la Huancaina - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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The food was amazing we had a group of 10 people and we had no complaints about the warmth and flavors of the food. The chaufa and lomo saltado was my favorite forsure id always recommend that to anyone trying this for their first time... Service and ambience was basically flawless as well don't forget about the free breads you get with your meals as well ‍ read more

El Rocoto - LOMO SALTADO CHAUFA MARISCO Jamaica Drinks Bread etc... - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

Delicious and authentic food. The ambiance is nice, the tables are a little bit of a tight fit but overall we enjoyed our family lunch there. Service was good, even for a busy weekend. Sangria was 10/10 and the traditional causa was my favorite! read more

The food was excellent. All the food was mouth watering . They took time to explain the menu, if where a new to the restaurant. It's very modern looking place and cozy. I would return, for the great food. read more

El Rocoto - Seafood ceviche. - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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Parking was easy in the plaza. Service was decent. I got the Tallarin Verde with Grilled Chicken. I the pasta bland, chicken was just okay. My friend got the fried rice and she found it bland. Prices were up there, not worth it imo. read more

El Rocoto - TALL S POLLO - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

Top tier food! The food is always delicious. Service was excellent. Ambiance was nice and clean.

Came here for 2 Birthdays. We loved it so much the first time we came again. We really enjoy the Peruvian food here. The staff is always welcoming and accommodating. It's not a big place. Very intimate. You can never go wrong with their most popular dishes, their Saltados. You can choose steak, chicken, or seafood. Comes with French fries and white rice. Food is delicious. read more

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Wow! This place was incredible. Jonathan was our server; he was knowledgeable, kind and friendly. We also had a secondary server who was also fantastic but I didn't catch her name. It was my first time but the others had been before and raved about the delicious food. We came for my brother in law's birthday; they even gave him a galleta/ cookie for dessert. The restaurant was cozy and authentic with Peruvian decor; also lots of space for our large party. Our family enjoyed many of the appetizers and main plates including pulpit a la parilla, various sashimi, tallarin verde, tacu tacu de mariscos (especially flavorful) and I had the fettuccine Huancaina, which was absolutely incredible. Our family shared and enjoyed every plate we tried. I don't think this place is hidden; it's been here for many years and it's a gem! Best birthday dinner we've had in a long time. Thank you, El Rocoto! read more

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I stopped in, as I was walking towards Kabuki for dinner... was intrigued by the fact I'd not noticed this Peruvian restaurant here before and walked in. I was initially excited... Jonny was my waiter and initially I was greeted with a welcoming smile. As I was seated and looked at the drink menu, I chose a red sangria and Jonny was happy to take my order. After my drink arrives, on the second request for any questions or an order, I advise I will continue to look through, that I'm a non-meat eater and new here. Jonny comes back for the 3rd time to take any questions or an order, and he kindly reviews a few options with me.... I finally decided on "Papas Fritas", on the menu for $6. To make a seemingly simple story short, I get my food and eat. As im finishing, Jonny asks if I'll have any other items and I politely declined. The 2 starts comes from the last 5 minute of my experience... so a simple order from the menu turns into an item I was charged for that was not on the menu - I was told it was a "special request", yet I'd never been here!?? Jonny didn't come back ....so the Second Gentleman / waiter that went to ask Jonny about my order, they were only 10-16 feet away and I kindly reminded them - that "item was not on the menu", because Jonny seemed confused and to refute my original request for Papas Fritas, as I looked on to the conversation with him and the other man, about my incorrect bill. This was a strange and uncomfortable experience and from what I gathered, I was "inconveniencing" Jonny for my small order, when the menu is quite highly priced. And perhaps he attempted to get over on me for "inconveniencing" him. I will not be back, sadly, as I love Peruvian food, and I was simply testing the waters for a future dining experience with the family. Nope! read more

El Rocoto - Ordered Papas Fritas but got charged for an item that wasn't even on the menu - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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I went recently with my family, and it was all of our first time. When ordering, we had questions about the items on the menu, and our server was not informative at all. Very bland and short answers, no personality. It certainly came off as rude. I ordered the quinotto lomo, which came with much more quinoa than meat. It was priced at $30, and I should've gotten more meat for that. In my opinion, the service was okay, and the plates are overpriced. read more

This was our second visit, and once again we were impressed. During our first visit, the generous portions left us completely satisfied. This time, I enjoyed a perfectly prepared lamb dish while my wife had an excellent seafood entrée. The flavors were bold and well-balanced, and even the coffee was great. I've included photos to show the quality. We'll definitely be back!" Your positive experience really shines through - with a bit of polishing, other diners will get a much clearer picture of what makes this restaurant special.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ read more

El Rocoto - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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Quality of food and service needs improvement.. For the past few years now, this location has been a hit or miss. I've had poor Lomo saltado, inconsistent proportions on the same dish ordered, but never bad enough to the point of leaving a bad review... Last night my cousin and I placed a to-go order, and we were very disappointed. The papa a la huancaina was given to us cold and the potato was hard. My cousin ordered more food, but honestly I don't even remember her eating it... The food might be better dining in, but it definitely isn't worth it for takeout. read more

Solid Peruvian food. The flavors are pretty good. You can find better in the area, but this is convenient and central. Service is good and place is clean. read more

Amazing Ceviche... with crunchy calamari... customer service was top notch and the Peruvian famous drink is a must try the Pisco Sour.

First time eating here, and now we are hooked. The food is amazing and service exceptional. Ruth was our server and her recommendations were great!!! Great vibe and enjoyed Pisco Sour drink!!! Recommend everyone to come and enjoy Peruvian food here!!! read more

I was greeted with friendly service and the host recommend a very delicious pasta dish. The dining area seems very cozy with a chill vibe. I ordered take out - lomo saltado and the pasta dish. So good! Iced been here 3 times since. read more

Amazing service by Jonattan!! Amazing food! Amazing vibe, and amazing chelada drinks! 10/10! Jonattan went above and beyond to find out what drink I was asking for and delivered. I love coming here! read more

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My bf took me here a couple times. Very nice Peruvian restaurant in Cerritos areas. Gonna be a wait if you visit during Holidays. The food is great and they have a variety of options. However, in our most recent visit, We had a conflicting feelings about this place. Ambience: Very nice decorations inside, spacious, can handle large parties up to 20 people. Food: Lomo Saltado: usually the quality looks just like in photo, beef is not dry, sauce is good and onions are cooked perfectly. It was Bomb.com when I first visited the restaurant in 2023, However when we visited on a Saturday night recently , during peak time, the restaurant was crowded, the beef was overcooked, and onions were undercooked. Food took forever to arrive . Im understanding that the restaurant gets crowded can affect the food quality, however, the server on that night didn't check on us at all. We appreciate that the Manager had taken action. Wishing the food here is more staple. Corn soup: it was good and shirmp is fresh. Im still giving them a high score due to Management's professionalism and for other times that we visited food was really good. read more

El Rocoto - Lomo Saltado and Soup - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California

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Glad I went to try this place out. For context, I took my grandma out to lunch on a Sunday afternoon. The place wasn't very big and located in a strip mall with lots of other eateries so the parking wasn't super easy. Nonetheless, our wait was minimal (8 minutes max), and we were eager to try Peruvian food. I had been years ago to Don Felix, I think it was called, near Silverlake many years ago. That was my only comparison for Peruvian food. The server was great with helping us choose and explaining the various dishes. Warm bread and butter are brought to the table. We ordered lomo saltado and carne a la pobre (I think) plus an anticucho de pollo. To drink, we got the sangria and the agua de maracuya. The flavors were all very tasty. Prices are up everywhere. For an appetizer, two beverages and two plates it came up to close to $100. I wouldn't come here on a date per se, but it's a nice place to go to with a friend or your family. Seating is a little tight seemingly to try to get more people in. read more

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I was a big fan of this place for years but lately their food has been terrible. Two Lomo Saltados for $65 and the rice was dry and cold and the meat was hard. Very unfortunate to see this place take such a drastic decline in the quality of food. read more

This place was only okay overall. Went on a weekday and the restaurant was nearly empty and service was pretty slow. The flavor in the pasta dish was a little bland and the potatoes in the lomo saltado were not the best and pretty soggy. The meat was good, but I have had lomo saltado many times and other places just do it better imo. Again nothing was bad necessarily just average. read more

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Jonattan was our server and he was great. I had the parihuela salvaje and it was delicious.

The service was attentive and the food was yummy! Portions are big, so come hungry or bring a friend. read more

El Rocoto - Pollo a lo pobre - Peruvian Near Me - Cerritos, California