As I walked into El Gringo for probably close to my thousandth meal there I was quickly met with the smell of salsa and a low heat emanating from the kitchen. I chose to sit downstairs when they offered and quickly sat at a small table with the my friend I had come with. When I looked at the menu I scanned over my options. The variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas all stared up at me. I settled on a carnitas burrito packed with beans, guacamole, tomato, and sour cream packed inside. Along with my meal I asked for a side of rice. My friend decided to something called a Mexican Pizza.
The wall adjacent to our table had been lined with local artists and photographers work. Most if not all of it was available for purchase. These mostly included shots of the Hermosa pier and various other beach-themed pieces.
The food arrived quickly and we began to dig in. The burrito I ordered was absolutely stuffed with ingredients as well as flavor. The flavors in each bite blended perfectly. The carnitas was grilled so it maintained its juicy interior while also having a well textured outside. The rice that came alongside my main dish is some of the greatest spanish rice I have had. Although some days the rice is less flavorful than others, it still holds a high ranking when compared to other similar sides.
Now while the burrito I ordered was delicious, it is a bit standard for a mexican restaurant. The specials on the menu are where the restaurants signature dishes. This list include soups and tacos, but by far the dish with the most personalty is the Mexican Pizza. It consists of a fried tortilla covered in ground beef which in turn is topped with sour cream, beans, onions, enchilada sauce, and cilantro. This mountain of food is an amazing dish to eat alone or as it is usually eaten, with friends. Each layer of the magnificent beast is chalk full of flavor and just about as dense with toppings. Despite already finishing my burrito I couldn’t help but finish off the pizza for my friend.
The meal came to be about $15 for each of us, including tip. Although you could get away with a cheaper meal depending on how much food you’re looking for. El Gringo has multiple locations in the south bay; we visited the one at 2620 Hermosa Ave. in Hermosa Beach. They offer pick up and catering at 1(310)-376-1381 (also the Hermosa Beach location). For their menu and any additional information visit their website at elgringo.com