El Caracol Mexican Food — Restaurant in Philadelphia

This place is the quintessential "hidden gem"! You wouldn't know it was there unless you knew it was there. It's TINY, so take out might be the way to go, but I've sat down to eat a handful of times. The process are reasonable, not Fairmount prices like other Mexican restaurants a couple blocks north. They didn't always have a server, but they are polite and quick at getting your food out. If you like hot sauce, this place has a legitimate one. It starts out a little fruity and seems like they forgot the heat, but after a few seconds, it hits and builds and builds! Maybe the best burrito I've had, definitely the best torta. I just wish they had milanesa, but the "grilled cheese" torta with pollo is amazing. The cheese is so crispy and there are just enough of all the toppings. I can't wait to go again! Hint, it's very close to Love City Brewing....

I've been here 3 times and the first 2 experiences were great. The food was amazing and the service was pretty good. Unfortunately my 3rd experience was extremely disappointing. I ordered a chicken & cheese quesadilla and some chips and queso like I always do. I walked back to my house and when I opened the bag that was supposed to be my quesadilla was drenched in some sort of sauce and the worst part is that it wasn't even a quesadilla. It was just a box with chicken and a crazy amount of sauce. I don't want to point fingers but I feel that the waitress was the problem here. She clarified with my 3 times what I wanted and each time I said the same thing. She even asked me if I said chicken & cheese quesadilla. I never understood why restaurants put the people who struggle understanding English in the front. No hate but I'm...

I'm a native Texan and I am in HEAVEN. I just moved in down the street and this place is AMAZING. El Caracol serves up authentic dishes that are incredible and oh man I'm gonna eat so much. My husband ordered the camerones a la diabla (deviled shrimp) and they are gloriously garlicy. Add the orange sauce for extra spicy. I ordered the burrito mojado (wet burrito) with carnitas (it's the most delicious braised pork) and I could not stop eating it. The green salsa on the burrito is the perfect medium spicy. I cannot say enough good things. I am so thankful El Caracol is near me. It's small but this place is a must try. If you don't like it we...