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    Sol Food

    4.2 (5.9k reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Sol Food Photos

    Business Info

    SOL FOOD ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Loud
    Casual
    Good for kids
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Sol Food

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    Sabrina H.

    We finally made it here (thank you Bad Bunny) and it did not disappoint. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was surprisingly empty on a Tuesday afternoon for lunch[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] and we ordered the bistec sandwich and pollo al horno plate. We also tried the ponche, which was very refreshing on a sunny day out. The bistec sandwich was so flavorful! The thinly sliced steak was seasoned well and super tasty with their pink mayo. We got the side of plantains with our chicken, one garlic and one sweet. The chicken itself was juicy but the key is to add on the house Pique hot pepper sauce that they have at every table. 10/10 would absolutely come back to try other things on the menu! Their coconut flan sounded good too. Where Bad Bunny goes, I will follow.

    Pork chops
    katrina a.

    Great food! Love the vibe! Very laid back comfort food! Service is amazing with very nice staff. Don't want to sit and eat, no problem! They have a take out restaurant next door for easy take out orders.

    Cubano
    Sandee L.

    Sol food was popular even before Bad Bunny's visit. I tried the Cubano and the veggie deluxe. The veggie sando surprisingly was so much better than the Cubano. The veggies were full of flavor and it was a hearty sandwich. Honesty, the ham in the Cubano looked very grey and tasted kind of off (I think it was past its prime). I was hungry though and doused it with that damn good vinegar sauce. Shortly after my tummy was churning.

    Pudin de Pina (Bread Pudding)
    Stephanie H.

    While in San Rafael, my husband noticed this business was busy in the morning, so we decided to stop at Sol Food for lunch on our way back home. You order at the counter then find a table. If you're ordering for to go, you'll have to go next door; they have a separate space for to go orders. We got lucky and I saw there was one table available after ordering. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was pretty loud/lively inside when I was there with people chattering.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food was pretty good. I tried one of their specials, Arroz con Pollo (chicken and rice). I also ordered Caldo de Pollo con Fideos (a chicken soup), Pudin de Pina (bread pudding), and a Coco-Parcha Smoothie. The chicken in the soup was pretty dry. The drink was so tart! I was expecting a bit of tartness from the Passionfruit, but it was too sour for me to handle and I couldn't drink more than a quarter of it. The people bringing out the food forgot one of my items, but the person working the cashier was very friendly and helpful. Definitely a good option for food and glad I tried it!

    Camarones a la diabla
    Rucha S.

    One of the best dining experiences we've had in the area. There's almost always a line when we visit, but it moves surprisingly fast and never feels frustrating. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant uses community-style seating with shared tables, which adds to the lively and welcoming atmosphere.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff is consistently friendly and helpful. The ordering process is simple--you place your order at the counter when you enter, find a seat, and the food is brought out shortly after. Despite how busy the restaurant can get, the food arrived quickly. On this visit, we ordered the Mariquitas, Tostones con Mojo, Camarones a la Diabla, and the Sándwich de Pollo. Every dish was excellent. The portions were generous, the ingredients tasted fresh, and everything was packed with flavor. The Camarones a la Diabla had just the right amount of spice, while the sides and appetizers were equally enjoyable. What stands out most about Sol Food is the consistency. Great food, friendly service, reasonable wait times, and excellent value for the quality and portion sizes. This has become one of our favorite spots, and it's a place we make sure to visit whenever we're in town. Highly recommended.

    Andrea Y.

    Finally made it and I'm glad we did! A friend told me about this place. Very busy on a Sunday night with a short wait as guests did keep rolling in. They ran out of the Rotisserie chicken (which must have been very popular) but we tried other dishes. Next time I wanna the Cuban sandwich [[HIGHLIGHT]]Bustling inside, Puerto Rican music filled the room and loud chatter was in the air.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Loved the bright green colored building and colorful decor inside![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] If you go to the Bodega next door, you can see how many people are busting their tails in the kitchen, wow!

    Pork chop
    Jared H.

    I ordered the pork chops and they were scrumptious! They were pan fried, seasoned well, and included rice, salad, pickled onions, choice of black or pink beans, and choice of fried plantains or Puerto Rican fries. I chose the pink beans and Puerto Rican fries. The Puerto Rican fries were very similar to regular fries, but made with different potatoes. At the table there was a homemade hot sauce that had a strong vinegar and chili taste. It accompanied the pork chops perfectly as it provided acidity and spice to the dish. Service was good as the workers were friendly and helpful. Ordering is at the counter and the food is brought to the table by servers. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It was extremely crowded during lunchtime and it was difficult to find an open table.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

    Pollo Al Horno
    Adriana F.

    Sol Food is a must to visit when you're in Marin! Serving authentic Puerto Rican food with a variety of combination plates, sandwiches, salads, etc. It's so good even Bad Bunny had to visit! My personal favorites are the Bistec Encebollado and Pollo Al Horno from the combination meals. It comes with salad, rice, beans, and plantains or P.R. fries. The combination plates are a great portion size, well-rounded, and feel like you're eating homemade, comfort food. I've also eaten the specials of the day, which were great. You really can't go wrong with ordering a combination meal or sandwich from the menu. Everything is fantastic! The service is always friendly and quick. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant is popular, so you'll likely need to wait in line, and the seating is family style/communal.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] It's one of my favorite restaurants in San Rafael. We dine here frequently and every time it's consistent and delicious. Thank you as always, Sol Food!

    The soup with the collard green
    S P.

    The Caldo Gallego broth itself was flavorful and comforting, and I did enjoy the taste. However, the description says it includes collard greens, and my bowl had almost no greens in it -- honestly, this one small piece was the only green I could find. I asked the waiter if I could get more greens, but he told me it was "cooked to order" and didn't really offer a solution. He also wasn't very friendly, which made the experience feel disappointing. Good flavor, but the portion didn't match the description, and the service could have been better. For a soup that specifically lists collard greens, I expected more than one small piece.

    Fried Chicken
    Patsy L.

    I heard about this place from friends & coworkers. Not to mention, all the hype that it's one of Bad Bunny's favorite Puerto Rican restaurants in the Bay Area. There's always a line. If you're ordering for take out, they have a storefront next door taking orders. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The inside was spacious but packed.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Service was good. Apparently, they're known for their chicken & smashed plantain. The chicken & shrimp were delicious. Unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of the smashed plantain. It was a lot of food. I was really full. I seldom rave about drinks but the limeade was SO good! I would go back just to order the limeade! It was THAT good! The glass it came in was huge too. I highly recommend the chicken dish & limeade!

    Bistec encebollado
    Kim T.

    It's been years since I have been back at Sol Food and it was just as good as I remember. You need to make sure your whole party has arrived before you can get seated. You order at the counter and they will take you to your table. I like starting off with the te helado because it's very refreshing. A friend ordered the mariquitas as an appetizer and it was so good. I love a plantain chip. My go to order is the bistec encebollado. I used to get it with the sweet plantains but they only offered french fries or savory plantains. With whatever you get, you need to throw the hot pepper sauce on everythingggg. It's the best thing ever.

    Tiffany S.

    Got the plantain crusted shrimp plate, and my partner got the bistec plate - I think next time I'll try the shrimp with sauce instead! For drinks we tried the regular mango tea, and the mango tea with lime. Personally liked the lime one more. Also got a coconut flan as dessert and it was so custardy! Loved it. Would come back again!

    Collar popped
    Kit P.

    This is my third time here its always unplanned once every one and a half years that I dine here. I had stewed veggies, with rice a salad and sweet plantains. There wasnt enough protein for me so I also ordered a cheeky side of pink beans. I think plantains are one of the best things on this planet, I will be making them very often when I get my apartment. Good food, not very authentic so I've been told, but its decent so every once in a while I'm not mad at it.

    Cubano

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    Review Insights

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    8 days ago

    The food and service is always great! Can't wait to make an excuse to go Sol Food again real soon.

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    15 days ago

    I love the chicken meal! I've been getting it for years. The place is fun to eat at and the service is always very friendly. So delicious!

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    Sol Food Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Sol Food

    Do all diners need to be present before they will seat you?

    Hi Marin, Not sure how they operate during the holidays. Give them a call;)… 

    If this place really has outdoor dining can you please post a picture of it?

    No outdoor dining in the San Rafael Location. Nice outdoor seating in Petaluma Location.… 

    What vegan options you have?

    My daughter is vegan and she gets the platter with rice, beans, salad and plantains.

    Do they still deliver?

    They do deliver, but only to a small radius around the restaurant.

    Are dogs allowed? The description says Yes, but when i called, the person said there's only indoor-dining.

    Mill valley used to have a little outdoor seating, never in San Rafael. We were there a few weeks ago and Mill Valley was 100% " to go" orders only, so no seating at all.

    Do they now offer dine in?

    Yes they do.

    I know some places are starting to do dine in- is this an option at Sol food?

    We stopped by on Saturday and all food was take out only.

    Do they offer outdoor seating?

    No, unfortunately they don't.

    What is the difference between the much loved Sol Food and the new Viqtor Food? The last time we were there they gave us the new menu for Viqtor Food and indicated that the original location on the corner of 3rd and Lincoln would now be Viqtor?

    Looks like they have a different menu?

    Are they open New Year's Day?

    Their website says they'll be open on New Year's Day for their normal business hours. What a great way to start off the new year!

    Can you buy pique sauce at the restaurant or only online?

    Yes as well as the garlic vinaigrette for the salad

    Are you open on Labor Day?

    Are they open today - Thanksgiving 2018?

    Hi Terri. Thank you for contacting us! We are closed today, but will be open tomorrow regular… 

    Are they open this Monday?

    Yes. The only day they are not open is Christmas

    Is sol food Open today on Christmas?

    They are closed today ?⛄️??

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    (53 reviews)
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    I had the pleasure of meeting Chef Erick to discuss his management approach and culinary…read morephilosophy. We also discussed his upbringing in NYC and his long history in the Bay Area's challenging culinary scene. This conversation happened before I had the opportunity to taste the succulent Puerto Rican dishes on his menu. Chef Erick is a truly humble and professional culinary artist. He lets his cooking do the talking, allowing his ingredients and timely combinations to showcase his superb culinary skills. From our conversation, I learned that he genuinely cares about the quality of his ingredients. While we talked about his experiences cooking for all kinds of tables in the Bay Area, from VIPs and celebrities to daily blue-collar San Franciscans seeking standout meals, Chef Erick answered at least five phone calls. He diligently coordinated with his local suppliers to ensure he, and in turn his customers, would have access to nothing but the best ingredients during the upcoming weekend rush. Most Puerto Ricans, including those adopted (see Chef Anthony Bourdain's memoirs), know a Puerto Rican restaurant is truly judged by the quality and flavor of its Pernil. This slow-roasted pork shoulder or leg is marinated in a robust herb paste. Many Puerto Rican families guard their herb paste recipes as closely as The Coca-Cola Company guards its Coca-Cola recipe. Pernil is the centerpiece of holiday feasts and family celebrations. That's why I chose this menu to celebrate meeting Chef Erick. Without hesitation, he prepared for me--someone born and raised in Puerto Rico--his masterfully concocted pernil with arroz con gandules and a side of maduros fritos. I have to say, this was the best Puerto Rican food I have tasted in all of California, from Santa Rosa to San Diego. I have visited all the restaurants in the Bay Area: El Coqui, both Sol Foods locations, Parada 22, and Lola's Lounge in Sacramento. I admit, this is the best and most authentic plate of Puerto Rican cuisine I have enjoyed in 16 years exploring Latin Cuisine Restaurants in Northern California. If you like Puerto Rican cuisine and have not tried Puerto Rican Street Cuisine, you must add this restaurant to your "must-visit" places in California. Thank you to Ceci, all the cooks, and Chef Erick for helping me relive the experience of proper, authentic pernil y arroz con gandules like my abuelita used to make for us on "la lomita" in Hormigueros, Puerto Rico!

    This has the best Puerto Rican food I have had- including in Puerto Rico! The carne was wonderfully…read morespiced, perfectly medium, and full grain meat through each chunk. The amazingly sweet and ripe plantains finish out a very generously portioned meal.

    Photos
    Pernil and yellow rice..Authentic, flavors and texture right on point! I like my pernil a little more dry and chunky.
    Pernil and yellow rice..Authentic, flavors and texture right on point! I like my pernil a little more dry and chunky.
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    Casa Borinquena

    Casa Borinquena

    4.7
    (74 reviews)
    14.5 mi

    I went to Casa Borinquena the other day for the first time and WOW I've really been missing out…read more The menu is small but mighty. Everything sounds delicious but the sample plates pack the most punch. I love plantains so having those figure prominently, with delicious rice and plant based chicken, is perfect. The service is incredibly fast and easy, and being at Saluhall, you get to take advantage of other vendors and a full a bar. It felt a little quiet on a Friday night but places like Casa Borinquena definitely make it a destination for me. Go now if you've been waiting. Casa Borinquena is not to be missed.

    Wepa! Casa Borinquena is anything but boring. Puerto Rican vegan food with all the flavors is far…read morefrom your typical mall food. Saluhall has two floors of food options. Definitely go upstairs and explore Casa Borinquena. If you're wondering what Market Street has to offer, duck inside IKEA. There are many seating areas. Yes, in addition to IKEA's viral food court, there's so much more. Saluhall opened with all-vegan vendors but things have shifted back to meat and dairy. Case Borinquena is the last standing all-vegan stall. This is Caribbean soul food and it's so good. If you're looking for a salad or something light, this is not for you. This food will fill you up and leave you wanting more. Loaded Tostones is pumped up with nacho-ish toppings. Served with a thick and tasty mama sauce. I was dunking everything into that sauce. I opted for the side of tostones because I was craving the crunchy plantain. It was crisp perfection! Lulu's Famous Pastelillo filled with vegan beef or chicken was another winner for me. The dough was fried perfectly and I loved the chicken filling flavor. Chef's kiss. Coquito cake is on the menu! If you love eggnog, get this right now. I want to return for the sampler plate. At $20, it's cheaper than a flight to Puerto Rico. Pro-tip: first hour of parking is free!

    Photos
    Some of our menu favorites
    Some of our menu favorites
    Casa Borinquena
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    La Guagua

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    La Guagua on Merchant St, family owned Latin spot that takes you across multiple countries on one…read moremenu. Tres leches torrejas for breakfast, soaked right through, platanos maduros with queso and black beans on the side, the whole plate is just warm and satisfying. Chicken croquetas were crispy and well seasoned. Outdoor seating only but they have heaters and the vibe is relaxed, feels like a neighborhood spot that actually cares. Coffee is sourced from Vasquez, a SF Latin American roaster, the cortadito alone is worth stopping in for. 5 stars, this is what Vacaville needed, come early on weekends

    The food is exceptional. You'll find many different Latin dishes on the menu here. I had ordered…read morethe Bandeja Paisa, a solid platter of different meats paired with beans, rice, fried egg, plantain, avocado and pickled onions. As for the meat; two slices of skirt steaks seasoned differently, a sausage and a fried piece of pork (lechón I believe). I have traveled through latin america for months and the flavors are spot on. I am impressed and will be recommending La Guagua. The service here is warm and an order at the counter style making it an easy casual dining experience. The lady was patient with me taking my time to examine the menu with speculation and curuosity. She affirmed my choice in my order aswell. The lady at the counter is all smiles. ¡Gracias a todos!

    Photos
    Menu 3/23/2023
    Menu 3/23/2023
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