Balompié Cafe #3

Like a moth to a flame, we descend upon all pupusa spots. One place we love is Balompié Cafe #3 near Bernal Heights. The casual spot decorated with soccer scarves offers pupusas with common fillings like chicharron, loroco, and cheese, and specialty pupusas, including shrimp, ground beef, and carne asada. Grab a seat by the window and you’ll hear the welcomed slap of pupusas coming together while you wait. They’re served hot with ideal crispy cheese edges and sides of oregano-heavy curtido. Order them with casamiento (rice and beans) and fried plantains that are caramelized and crispy. 

photo credit: Carly Hackbarth