Los Barrilitos — Restaurant in Linden

What are pupusas? From the Nawat language meaning fluffy, these are masa dough cakes crossed between tamales and quesadillas filled with meat, beans, cheese, or vegetables, then griddled until golden brown and crisp. They are popular, especially in Salvadorian and Honduran cuisines. Located on East Linden Avenue in Linden, some of my colleagues placed an order for takeout at Los Barrilitos (little barrels) yesterday. Their online menu, primarily in Spanish with some English, consisted of a variety of breakfasts, appetizers, sandwiches, empanadas, dinner entrees, desserts, and specials of the day. As first-timers, it would have been great to have a picture of the meal on the menu to get an idea of what’s being offered. We decided on small chicken soup, maduros (sweet plantains), bean and cheese pupusa, rice, and pupusa special consisting of meat, bean, cheese, and loroco flowers. Upon arriving at this family-owned establishment by the Carbajal brothers, Marlo and Jose, parking could be a challenge depending on the time of day, as it’s small. The interior has an old-school vibe. We were welcomed by one of the staff, and our order was ready. The pupusas were pretty big in size, tasty with the right flavor, and not too greasy. They were traditionally accompanied by a vinegary cabbage, carrot, and onion salad called curtido. The salad is typically lightly fermented, kind of like sauerkraut. The price was economical for the amount ordered. Overall, we enjoyed our meal, as they are a popular, affordable meal perfect for a family feast but also quick enough for a snack, lunch, or dinner on the go, which we...

I had a very disappointing experience picking up a takeout order today. I placed my order 40 minutes in advance, hoping it would be ready when I arrived. When I got to the restaurant, I waited patiently as the staff helped other customers. One of the workers asked if I had placed an order—I told her I was there for a pickup and gave her my name. She didn’t check anything and went on to help someone else.

When another employee became available, she asked who was next. I raised my hand, but a few men behind me called out their orders and were helped before me. I politely let her know I had been waiting and asked if she could check on my order. Her response was that she was “trying to help everyone one at a time,” which made me feel dismissed. I had to return to work, so I asked her to cancel my order.

I left feeling upset and disrespected. Customer service should be more attentive and fair, especially when customers are clearly...

My English is not all that well , but there are two young ladies - that kinda run the place - that have so much patience with me . They have kinda taught me some of the lingo ....lol, but enough of that . Let’s talk about the food . I’m ADDICTED to their PUPUSA’s - this place makes excellent food , food that you would pay much more anywhere else . I’ve tried other spots in LINDEN and ELIZABETH , that cannot even come close to the food here .. so if your like me , and feel kinda shy about entering a Spanish place with Spanish speaking people —-DONT BE !! Please come try this place — you will not be disappointed.. The other day I ordered my food at 9:40pm and picked it up at 10:00pm , near closing time - they actually took the time to make my food fresh, despite Of the time and the owner just happend to be there . Very nice guy . I really enjoy coming here I hope you do...