If you’ve ever been to El Salvador, you know that pupusas are everywhere. They are the heart and soul of Salvadoran street food and a must-try dish when you visit – especially if you’re planning to surf El Salvador or check out the waves at surfk59. But what exactly are pupusas? Where do they come from? And most importantly, where can you find the best ones near El Zonte? Let’s dive in!
What Are Pupusas?
Pupusas are thick, handmade corn or rice tortillas stuffed with a variety of delicious fillings. They originated in El Salvador and have been a staple of Salvadoran cuisine for centuries. Traditionally, they are filled with cheese, beans, chicharrón (pork), or a mix of all three – called a revuelta. You can also find more adventurous options like shrimp, fish, or the beloved loroco, an edible flower native to Central America that adds a unique, earthy flavor.The Pupusa Experience in El Salvador
One of the best things about visiting El Salvador is that you don’t have to go far to find pupusas. Nearly every town, village, and roadside stand sells them, each with its own spin on the fillings, masa (dough), curtido (fermented cabbage slaw), and sauce. You can get them made from two types of masa:- Corn masa – The traditional base, offering a rich and slightly sweet taste.
- Rice masa – A softer, silkier option that many locals (myself included) actually prefer!
How to Eat Pupusas the Right Way
Forget the fork—pupusas are meant to be eaten with your fingers! Here’s how to do it right:- Wash your hands. Always.
- Take some curtido (fermented cabbage slaw) from the big jar often already on the table and place it on your plate next to your pupusa.
- Drizzle the red sauce—usually also on the table—over the curtido.
- Tear a piece of the pupusa with your fingers, scoop up some slaw and sauce, and enjoy!
Pupusas are an ancient food, deeply rooted in Salvadoran tradition. The use of fermented foods like curtido connects to a long history of natural preservation methods that enhance both flavor and nutrition. Fermented foods are packed with probiotics that support gut health, making pupusas not just delicious but also a nod to the health-conscious cooking of the past.
One important thing to remember – pupusas come off the grill extremely hot, and they do not cool down quickly! If you’re impatient, you might want to break them apart a bit to let the steam escape or even open them in half if they aren’t overstuffed. But if you dive right in, be prepared to burn your fingers.
The Best Pupusa Spots Near El Zonte and K59
Geisy’s in El Zonte
If you’re staying in El Zonte, Geisy’s is the most convenient and well-known spot for pupusas. Located right on the main road leading to the beach, it’s easy to find. The pupusas here are solid – but be aware that they aren’t always open! Sometimes they take a rest day on Tuesday or Wednesday. Since pupusas take time to cook, don’t come starving – come before you get hungry so you can enjoy the experience of watching the ladies work their magic on the griddle.
Geisy’s is also a great place to sit and eat. Since pupusas are generally $1-$2, many surfers love to fuel up here before their next surf el salvador session. The restaurant has tables, making it a fun and social spot to eat alongside other travelers and locals.
Erika’s in La Libertad – The Gold Standard
If you’re willing to take a short drive, the most consistently excellent pupusa experience is at Erika’s in La Libertad. From the perfectly cooked masa to the flavorful fillings, the tangy and fresh curtido, and the well-balanced sauce, Erika’s pupusas hit all the right notes. The only downside? They usually don’t open until around 5:30 PM. But trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Erika’s has tons of seating and is extremely welcoming. You’ll also notice the strong religious decorations throughout—there’s a holy presence in the air. Maybe all that praying is the secret to their amazing pupusas because Erika’s pupusas come out blessed! On a scale of 1 to 10, Erika’s is an easy 10/10. Personally, it’s the only place I really want to go for pupusas. Their sauce is the best, their masa is the best, and their fillings are the best – simple as that.
When in Doubt, Try Them All!
Throughout El Salvador, you’ll find that each pupusería has its own specialty. Some places have the best sauce, while others nail the curtido or have the perfect masa texture. Experiment! The best way to find your favorite pupusería? Try them all!