El Cochinito

Tucked along Sunset Boulevard in the heart of Silver Lake, El Cochinito has earned a devoted following for its authentic Cuban cooking and warm, family-run atmosphere. This unassuming spot has garnered serious acclaim—including recognition for serving one of the world’s best Cuban sandwiches—a distinction that’s sure to raise a few eyebrows in Miami but feels entirely earned once you take your first bite.

The menu centers on lovingly prepared Cuban classics, with slow-roasted pork taking center stage. Their famous Cuban sandwich arrives perfectly pressed, loaded with tender roasted pork that releases its garlicky essence the moment you bite through the crispy medianoche bread. Thin-cut pickles and a generous swipe of yellow mustard bring the whole thing together. Beyond the signature sandwich, don’t miss the ropa vieja—shredded flank steak so tender it practically melts, swimming in a savory tomato sauce fragrant with onions and bell peppers.

The portions here are generous and meant for sharing. The pollo empanizado comes as a massive, thin-pounded fried chicken breast that’s impossibly crispy and brightened with a squeeze of lime. Pair it with the maduros—sweet plantains that arrive gorgeously caramelized and golden. For dessert, the flan is nothing short of perfect: jiggly custard swimming in sticky caramel that’s worth every calorie.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch, settling in for a casual dinner with friends, or looking for somewhere to catch a game, El Cochinito delivers the kind of honest, satisfying cooking that keeps regulars coming back. The platano batido—a thick, creamy banana milkshake—makes an excellent finish to any meal or a sweet treat on its own.