About
LA PUPUSA URBAN EATERY
Salvadoran Street Food with a Los Angeles Twist
The city of Los Angeles is one of the great food capitals of the world. With its diverse neighborhoods, cultural melting pot, and a thriving culinary scene that spans from the food trucks to the finest of fine dining, it’s easy to spend weeks (if not months) eating your way through LA and still only scratch the surface. But when it comes to authentic Salvadoran street fare with a California flair, there's one place we can’t stop talking about—La Pupusa Urban Eatery.
A Taste of El Salvador in LA
Tucked into Washington Blvd, La Pupusa Urban Eatery is more than just a great local eatery—it’s a destination. A place where food is celebrated as art, tradition is honored, and bold flavor is served up in every bite. Whether you’re already a fan of Salvadoran cuisine or have yet to dive in, this family-run spot is the perfect introduction.
It was founded by Juan and Stephanie, a duo driven by their passion for food, their Salvadoran heritage, and their dream of sharing it with the city they love. And from our first visit, it was clear that they’re not just in the business of feeding people—they’re in the business of connecting people to culture, and doing it with heart.
Latin Comfort with a Creative Kick
One of the reasons La Pupusa Urban Eatery stands out so clearly among LA’s crowded culinary scene is its ability to bridge the gap between traditional and modern. Yes, you’ll find classic Salvadoran dishes here—made with time-honored recipes and bursting with authenticity—but you’ll also discover a uniquely Los Angeles twist to many of the offerings. That means innovative ingredients, elevated plating, and fusion flavors that still pay homage to their roots.
This isn’t rushed food or mass-produced Latin fare. This is slow-crafted, cooked-to-order street cuisine, the kind you’d find off the backstreets of San Salvador, reimagined for the West Coast palate. It’s exciting, it’s comforting, and it’s done with precision.
Menu Highlights You Can't Miss
There’s no shortage of flavor-packed options here, so come hungry and ready to explore. Here are just a few of our must-try dishes from our visit:
La Mañanera
A true breakfast of champions, this hearty pupusa is loaded with eggs, chorizo, cheese, and beans. It’s got that savory bite and rich flavor that’ll fuel you for the day ahead—and make you rethink what breakfast food can be.
Loaded Yuca Fries
These thick-cut yuca fries are crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and absolutely smothered in toppings. Think tangy slaw, crema, salsa, and cheese—all working together in glorious harmony. It's a street food staple turned comfort food gold.
Pan Con Pollo
If you’ve never had this sandwich before, get ready to be blown away. Tender, seasoned chicken served on soft bread with fresh toppings and house-made sauce—it’s bold, filling, and beautifully balanced.
Pupusa de Loroco y Chicharrón
This is where tradition sings. Loroco (a Salvadoran edible flower) and savory chicharrón (pork) are folded into a hand-pressed corn masa pocket, grilled to perfection, and served with curtido and salsa. If you’ve never had loroco before, it’s herbaceous, floral, and adds a unique earthy note that perfectly complements the rich pork.
Plátanos Fritos
Sweet, ripe plantains, fried until caramelized on the edges and served with crema and beans. It’s simple, it’s perfect, and it’s one of those dishes that always brings comfort with every bite.
Carne Asada
Thinly sliced grilled steak, marinated with love and charred just right. A classic Latin dish that’s elevated here with attention to detail and flavor layering. Pair it with rice and beans for the full experience.
Mamasota Pupusa
The name says it all. This oversized pupusa is stacked with multiple fillings, packed full of meat and cheese, and served with all the proper accompaniments. It’s bold, rich, and more than enough for one—but we won’t judge if you keep it all to yourself.
More Than Just Food
Beyond the incredible eats, the real standout at La Pupusa Urban Eatery is the warmth of the people. This is a family-run spot, and they treat every guest like part of the crew. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’ll get friendly, helpful service and a genuine passion for the food that’s contagious.
You’ll also notice how much pride Juan and Stephanie take in every detail—from the fresh masa pressed daily to the colorful, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates Salvadoran culture. They’re not just sharing food—they’re sharing identity, memory, and tradition with every plate.
Final Thoughts
La Pupusa Urban Eatery is exactly the kind of place that makes us love the LA food scene so much. It’s where street food becomes something spectacular, where heritage meets hustle, and where every meal feels like a celebration. You don’t have to book a plane ticket to El Salvador to get a taste of something truly special. Just head over to Washington Blvd and let the flavors speak for themselves.
Come hungry. Leave full. And don’t be surprised if this place becomes a regular stop anytime you’re in Los Angeles.
Aired on July 7, 2023
Updated July 9, 2025
Pastelitos de Pollo
La Mexicana Pupusa
Deep Fried Bananas with Vanilla Ice Cream
La Pupusa Urban Eatery Food
Loaded Yuca Street Fries
The Breakfast Pupusa - La Mananera
Plantains
Sopa de Borrachos with Udon Noodles
BRING FLAVOR HOME!
For menu, hours, delivery, reservations or gift cards please call 213-749-4573.
Diet-friendly, vegan, gluten free or organic meals may be available.
Images courtesy of La Pupusa Urban Eatery