El Rinconcito Restaurant & Bakery LLC — Restaurant in Upper Darby

Hands down the best Ecuadorian restaurant in the entire U.S. I just stumbled upon an absolute gold mine. The vibe is electric—warm, welcoming, and full of life. Don’t let the humble exterior fool you—this place delivers.

The food? Next level. Authentic Ecuadorian flavors with just enough of an American-friendly twist to make it approachable for anyone. The bakery is phenomenal, the coffee is on point, and the overall energy is just unmatched.

Sadly, some of the negative reviews seem more like local bitterness than honest feedback. I’ve been to 48 states, eaten all over, and I can confidently say: this place is legendary.

They serve something called empanada de queso—which doesn’t translate well, but trust me, it’s a cheesy bread you’ll dream about for days. I would drive two hours just to eat here again. This spot is a force to be reckoned with. If you’re anywhere nearby, make the trip. You...

I have had a couple of excellent meals here. Yesterday, to celebrate a milestone event in my life, I stopped in at close to 2:00pm. There were plenty of employees. Only six tables were occupied. I was told at which table to sit, first in Spanish, then in English. I waited. Fifteen minutes.

Then I left. As I was leaving a young man approached and asked what I wanted. What's the deal? Do I order in front or at the table?

The entire El Rin experience had lost its appeal by the time I was offered an opportunity to order. No one else had a problem getting attention from wait staff.

When told, in Spanish, which table to go to, I did not understand. Was that the employee signal to ignore me? I'm not 'one of them'?

Maybe I'll try again next year. Probably not. With fentanyl junkies aggressively panhandling adjacent to the front door, maybe I'll write this place...

I’ve been driving all around Philly for an affordable Spanish food place. I’ve went to maybe 10 different places and all of them had their flaws. So, I came across this place an I was skeptical only because it wasn’t Puerto Rican or Dominican style food.. but when I came here, I bought white rice and beans and grilled chicken with tostones and salad.. the plates were HUGGGEEEEE AND THE FOOD WAS AMAZING.. this is hands down one of the best Spanish food places I’ve had since moving to Philly since 2015.. I totally recommend this place wholeheartedly.. if I can give 10 star...