On the corner of Industrial and Mission, an unassuming restaurant nestled in your average drugstore and salon plaza, Pupuseria Y Taqueria Los Cocos stands out as a gem for those in pursuit of authentic Central American flavors. Los Cocos is a woman-owned and run Salvadorian restaurant near Hayward Highland. It would be a great time to support this business during Women’s History Month.
Wide picture windows line the front of the restaurant, creating a welcoming and casual atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, the scent of freshly prepared masa, sizzling pupusas, and spices greet you.
The interior is designed with an open concept, spacious, and slightly retro vibe. The bright yellow and green seats add the perfect pop of color to pair with the 80’s music for that subtle vintage-hip hop granny core.
Ordering is simple: the menu is in Spanish with English translations. Orders can be made to-go or for dine-in. Cash, card, and /mobile pay are accepted. Once ordering at the counter, you may select a table and wait for your food to be served. While you wait, why not enjoy a deliciously smooth house-made horchata, or a tangy Agua de Tamarindo? Other drinks from Central America also grace the menu.
The Monarch Times tried their best pupusas, nachos, and tamales salvadoreños. The food is served within 10-15 minutes for a party of 4 to 7. Nachos are hard to mess up, and Los Cocos proves this point with rich guacamole, thick salsas, well seasoned carne asada, and house made tortilla chips. Definitely a crowd pleaser among both picky and flexible eaters.
The pupusas are chicken and cheese, chicharron with beans and cheese, and the classic: beans with cheese. The pupusas had the perfect golden-brown color and slight crunch of the masa, complimented by the warm and hearty filling. The filling of the pupusa, meat or not, was filled to the brim, making every bite memorable. For a little zest, Los Cocos provides salty and tangy curtido to top your pupusa!
According to Co-Editor Catherine Escoto, the tamales salvadoreños, spicy chicken enveloped in corn masa and wrapped in a plantain leaf, makes her “eyes roll back.” The spices and sauces of the marinated chicken brings the tamale to life with intense savory flavors. The corn masa helps even out and balance the dish. Overall, the food puts a smile on anyone’s face within that first bite.
In short, Los Cocos is an icon in Hayward for its inviting atmosphere, perfectly grilled pupusas, and fresh masa that brings a smile to anyone’s face. Whether your taste is akin to Central American cuisine or you’re a first time taster, Pupuseria Y Taqueria Los Cocos promises a culinary journey that’s well worth the visit.
