Hello dear
Welcome to El Caracol Cafe
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, El Caracol Cafe is a delightful culinary oasis that specializes in authentic Latin cuisine, particularly Salvadoran delights. From flavor-packed pupusas to irresistible nachos layered with cheese, every dish here showcases freshness and quality. Customers rave about the warm, welcoming service and the vibrant murals adorning the walls, creating an inviting atmosphere. The horchata and carnitas burritos are must-tries, elevating the dining experience. This hidden gem boasts a genuine mom-and-pop charm, making it a beloved spot for both locals and newcomers eager to explore the rich tapestry of Latin flavors.
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About
El Caracol Cafe
Welcome to El Caracol Cafe, a hidden culinary gem nestled in the heart of Vancouver at 5190 Victoria Dr. This delightful cafe takes you on a savory journey through authentic Salvadoran cuisine, with each dish crafted to tantalize your taste buds. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped by the vibrant murals that adorn the walls, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
One of the cafe's standout features is undoubtedly its nachos; reviewed as the best in Vancouver, they're generously layered with cheese and topped with a superbly zesty hot sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Partner this with their carnitas burrito, which is filled to the brim with rich flavors, or the traditional pupusas, and you have a feast that celebrates the essence of home-cooked Salvadoran meals.
Customers rave about the attentive service, with many noting the friendly demeanor of the staff. The cafe offers a down-to-earth vibe that instantly makes you feel at home. As noted by Robert M, the cleanliness and warmth of El Caracol Cafe make dining here a pleasant experience, despite meals being served in takeout containers.
When it comes to pricing, you won't break the bank here. For just $7.50, indulge in a baleada, a delightful cheesy bean-filled tortilla that promises both satisfaction and value. You get a large serving that could easily become your new favorite lunchtime go-to.
Whether you're a Salvadoran cuisine aficionado or just venturing into new culinary territories, El Caracol Cafe invites you to savor their delicious offerings. The combination of fantastic food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes this cafe a must-visit for anyone in the area. Don’t keep it a secret; come and uncover the magic of El Caracol Cafe for yourself!
For inquiries, you can reach them at +1 604-325-3461.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Had a great time visiting this little gem. Had a horchata, carnitas burrito, traditional pupusas, and nachos which were all very good! Lots of cheese on the nachos and in the burrito, great hot sauce too! Great rice & beans with the burrito combo ”
“ Second time I have been there this year, each time the waitress was very friendly and the food was good. The restaurant is very clean and has murals painted on the walls. The only thing I didn't like was the meals are served on takeout containers. Other than that it still gets 5 stars. ”
“ This hidden gem is an amazing mom and pop shop with authentic food. The enchiladas were awesome. The chicken was moist and we also had the nachos which were layered properly with cheese. If you're in the area check it out ”
“ Very happy we stopped in here today. We aren’t super familiar with Salvadoran cuisine so we tried a few things to share: nachos, baleada, and of course Pupusa’s! The nachos were unreal - I might say the best nachos I’ve ever had! They were messy but so so good. Baleada is like the yummiest cheesy bean filling in a flour tortilla which on its own could be super filling - for 7.50. Pupusas are large and so we had one each - very delicious and fresh-tasting. Recommend the pork bean and cheese pupusa. The counter service is great and has that very down to earth friendly vibe. Will definitely be returning ”
“ The absolute best in Latin Cuisine here in Vancouver. Words can't describe how much I enjoyed eating here. The customer service from back to front is 5 star. I almost don't want to share this place with anyone. It's like a diamond you have found and want to keep a secret. The nachos are heavenly! ”
“ I’ve been going here for SO long. It’s my favorite spot and was away for a bit and am SO happy it’s still here! The guy before doing the cashier and stuff was so attentive and the new girls now are so straight up and proper. Ppl gotta understand how hard they work cause yo it gets crazy, why, BECAUSE ITS SO LEGIT! Literally the best pupusa spot in the lower mainland! Other places are 9’s but yo, they ain’t cheap with ANYTHING they give you! Literally feels like when my mom would make Pupusas and I’d pig out. The cabbage stuff is so damn yummy n the sauce WITH the jalapeno stuff now. Gives it that extra kick! My homies mom n my mom make the best I’ve ever had and yo this is basically the same! It’s ridiculous. And then the pollo guillado is so damn yummy! Basically all I get cause they’re so freaking yummy jus leaves you eating til you can’t no more! Truly the best spot and you guys don’t know what and WHO they have to deal with so damn have patience n cut them some slack as if they gotta be perfect for you when u get there. This place like family when you build up n get to know them and you will NEVER be disappointed and only one time something happened to my meal there n I said something n dude they gave me a new full plate with no charge of the plate! And I was almost half done n didn’t mean to be an annoying custi like that it’s just they even realized and felt bad for their mistake! Place is full of REAL love and care and you become the man of food knowledge jus putting it out there to ppl! Never has disappointed any person I told bout it n I’m 100% sure you’ll be satisfied. My big unc always got the soup hahaha damn summer eating soup like a Mexican man this is the spot! Corner spot too! Inside is like the places in Central America too. Just an extravagant of excellence! hahaha place cheers you up! ”
“ From the moment we walked in, we felt welcomed. Very warm atmosphere and friendly staff. Some of the best Ceviche I've had and truly the best Mole in the lower mainland (very hard to find). Always order the Papusas! Finally, the photos do NOT do this place justice, come for yourself and find out how amazing this place is. We will return again for sure! ”
“ The food is always good, service can be chaotic at times. Limited seating. Overall a very good place to grab eats. ”