Lechonera DMV — Restaurant in Woodbridge

I'm an avid foodie looking for ways to support our local business especially during Hispanic heritage month. I've been following this food establishment within the upcoming weeks right before their grand opening in Elkridge, MD. Therefore, last week, I decided to give this spot a try but initial attempt left me with nothing to try sadly. The line was extremely long! Only to announce we've run out of lechon this evening (my main reason for going).

Nonetheless this was a new week with another attempt to finally score some lechon. I waited for about 35 mins in the 🌧 rain while people were shivering from the wind chills. As I arrived to the food truck to finally - with mounting exciting to place my order. The cashier announces we may be out of lechon...My heart sanked once again with utter disappointment; this is the only reason to come here. Cashier shouted to one of the cooks...are you sure you don't have any?!?! The cook confirmed he did but I had to wait another 45 mins for it to be ready. I retreated back in my car to seek comfort from the declining temperature as it continued to rain. During the waiting period, I kept myself entertained talking to girlfriends...and simplying killing time. The cashier calls me to share with me the order is finally ready. The food packager kindly takes my bags to the car. We had a pleasant one to two minutes conversation and it is off to the races to get home. The smell is invigorating and all I can imagine is tasting the lechon.

I purchased two individual meals containing: lechon and arroz con guandules, smoked half chicken with guenitos, tembleque, and limber. The lechon has an incredible taste! I was utterly disappointed with the chicken; it was not thoroughly cooked. It was raw in the middle. I was super delighted with the lechon! I will be back again for that and longaniza. El moro de gandules taste very similar to my dad's. I'm 100%...

We were only in the area getting gas when we caught a whiff of the smoke billowing out of a smoker across the street. We chose to go check it out and we were so glad we did

The whole set-up is an interesting-cool food truck eatery. You order from a well decorated converted short bus. Attached to the bus is a whole separate smoker that is open so you can see the variety of meats that are available on the menu (whole pig rotating on a spit, Ribs, whole chickens, sausage). They also provide 4 folding picnic tables set under a tent in the parking lot, with Puerto Rican music playing on their speakers. Considering it's a parking lot, they've done a great job offering an option to sit and eat.

We ordered two of the bowls which come with rice & beans, Yucca (not fried, which is how we're used to getting yucca), plantains. The sausage has a great mix of different flavors, with pork, seasoning, and either peas or lentils. We had differing thoughts on the lechon as one person at the table thought it was a bit too salty, but others thought it was still good and tasty. We also ordered a half rack of ribs. These were not fall off the bone, but they were still very tasty with its smoky flavor, seasoning and bbq sauce, plus they were also very meaty.

I also have to give mention to the team that works there. They were all very friendly and welcoming. They took the time to explain everything on the menu. Came to our table a couple of times to bring some sauces, make sure everything was okay, and to tell us when they're open (Fri, Sat, and Sun). He explained Fri was a smaller menu that varies with what they have, then Sat & Sun is their full menu.

I highly suggest...

Let me tell you, my recent experience with Lechónera DMV was nothing short of spectacular! Their lechón was, as expected, absolutely divine. Tender, juicy, with that incredible authentic flavor and perfectly crispy skin – it's the real deal. And yes, their limber was a delightful surprise the kids loved it!

However, while everything was fantastic, the arroz con gandules truly stole the show for me. The gandules were tender, and the sofrito was clearly made with love. It was the kind of arroz con gandules that takes you right back to abuela's kitchen – simply unforgettable.

And let's not forget the guineitos! They were so tasty – perfectly cooked, with a wonderful texture and subtle sweetness that complemented the other dishes beautifully. It was clear that every element of the meal was prepared with care and attention to detail.

Beyond the incredible food, the service was warm and welcoming. You can feel the passion they have for their cuisine.

If you're anywhere in the DMV area and craving authentic Puerto Rican flavors, Lechónera DMV is an absolute must-try. Prepare to be blown away by their lechón, fall in love with their limber, and be completely won over by their phenomenal arroz con gandules and tasty guineitos. I'm already planning my next visit! ¡Mil gracias,...