Gloria's Cafe

Standard but tasty Salvadoran cuisine. Nothing makes it particularly stand out, but everything we’ve gotten has been consistently good at standard prices. And their happy hour is all day on Fridays, which is a nice bonus.

Came here on a Friday for dinner on a whim. There is happy hour all day Friday with great deals on drinks. We ordered strawberry margaritas and pupusas which were all delicious! The staff was super friendly and you could tell that people come here often as regulars were being greeted by name. Super excited to come back to this neighborhood gem

We love the vibe, the music, the service and the food was absolutely delicious. The staff came by several times to make sure we were loving the food (we were). Huge portions: I brought home extra pupusas and ate them the next day - still delicious. It was my first time at an El Salvadoran restaurant, and this place makes me have love for the country. Lots of families, couples and singles. Everyone will feel welcome. Excellent value.

Fantastic food in a great atmosphere. Service was great, like Mom taking care of her loved ones. Carne adobada had generous, tender cuts of beef hard to beat for taste and quality. Homemade tortillas a great compliment. Pescado frito is absolute heaven. We'll be back!

Excellent food! Seafood soup and carnitas plate are both great. Service is great. Easy parking. Highly recommend!

The cocido was so flavorful and HUGE, the beef and broth were healing. The staff was really attentive. I’m excited to come back !

Stopped by for dinner upon a recommendation and this place is so worth it. The pupusas were fantastic, the 7 Seas soup was divine. The pitcher of margaritas was great. Service was fast, food was well prepared.

I went here with some friends and we all cleaned out plates by the end of it. We all ate from the Salvadoran menu and it was delicious. Next time I will be sure to get extra chicharrón and plátanos, they were my absolute favorite. We sat in the outside patio that had twinkle lights and lots of space. The service is friendly and supportive, only thing I would say is the margarita pitchers could have been poured a little stronger. I will definitely be returning!

When most people think of the City of Angels; they think of glitter, glitz and glamour (well, this is more so through the eyes of tourists - us locals know better).  Although this star studded VIP lifestyle is indeed available - there is also an essence of 'home' and community in the city: mom and pop shops, businesses that feel like family and restaurants/bars that know you by name. The latter is exactly what you will find at Gloria's: a Mexican and Salvadorian eatery/bar in the Culver City adjacent neighborhood of Palms. Gloria's is the epitome of family and this translates to everything from the vibe to the food. Gloria's holds real estate in a small strip plaza on Venice Blvd which means parking can be a nightmare but there is a small lot available directly in front. From the exterior, Gloria's looks like a dive absent of bells and whistles but as we all know too well: dives are usually the best! In fact, Gloria's was featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive Ins and Dives" hosted by Guy Fieri but quite honestly  - that guy annoys me to no end so it wasn't his frosted tipped hair and backwards sunglasses that introduced me to Gloria's; but my boyfriend who has been singing the praises of this establishment for YEARS. The time came when I finally got to pop my Gloria's cherry and I was welcomed into a small but charming eatery complete with booth and table dining, a bar area with a live fish tank and outdoor patio area. There is something about Gloria's that feels like walking into your Mexican grandma's house with that essence of, "Come eat! Come eat!" Gloria's simple has great energy. I was already sold and I haven't even eaten yet! The menu at Gloria's is a beautiful melding of Mexican and Salvadorian dishes and my boyfriend and I had to start with a couple of pina coladas ($9) and some chips and guacamole to start ($10.95). For our dinner, my boyfriend went with the Chimichanga plate (chimichanga of your choice served with beans and rice - $18.95) while I went with the Enchiladas Suizas (2 enchiladas  - I chose chicken and cheese , topped with green salsa, guac, sour cream served with rice and black beans - $18.45). My satisfaction with Gloria's was on a hot streak because the pina colada was perfection and not light on the alcohol. But the chips and guacamole is where it is at! Holy moly, Gloria's! This is the guacamole of dreams and I could bathe in a tub of it. Well, no, but I could EAT a tub of it! That is some damn good guacamole! If the pina colada and guac were any indication - plus my boyfriend's undying devotion - I knew the plates were going to be mind-blowing and I was not disappointed. First of all, Gloria's does not play in regards to portions as these servings are large and in charge! But the starring role is held by the food itself as Gloria's effortlessly offers at-home style, slow simmered flavors that are both comforting but elevated. My Enchiladas Suizas were PERFECT with ooey gooey cheese and tender chicken. The green sauce was a heavenly chorus accompaniment and there was more of that famous guacamole! Downright excellence on a plate! I had a bite of my boyfriend's large-sized chimichanga and it was equally divine. The amount of south of the border food options in LA is seemingly endless but I am telling you that Gloria's is at the top of the top. I have been thinking about the food non-stop since my dining experience. An insider tip: make sure to ask for a bottle of Gloria's very own habanero hot sauce. I'll take 10! This hot sauce could run every hot sauce company on your grocer's shelves out of business because it is that good.  In case you are wondering if Gloria is real... She is and can often be seen working the floor. Gloria's is the trifecta of family atmosphere, large portions, and amazingly delicious food that will leave you dreaming it about days later. Who needs the glittery upscale version when you can have food that has you feeling at home? But don't take my word for it... or Guy Fieri's or my boyfriend's... run to Gloria's and give them a try.

The service was fast and friendly, and the inside of the restaurant is cute. It is very small from the outside, a bit hard to locate, but there's plenty of room inside and it feels very cozy. The pupusas were delicious. There was a great amount of amazing melted cheese, and the jalapeños cheese pupusa had a nice spicy kick that I really enjoyed. The curtido could have used a bit more vinegar; the taste was a bit muted, but it still added a nice crunch when combined with the pupusa. The strawberry margarita was delicious and tasted like they use fresh strawberries, but I don't think there is much alcohol in the drink. It was still refreshing on a warm day. I will be back for the pupusas again!

This was some of the best Salvadoran food I've ever had. I ordered the special Plato Típico, and every item was outstanding--the handmade pupusas were fresh and flavorful, the plantains perfectly cooked, and the beans and rice were excellent. On top of the great food, the customer service was warm and attentive, making the whole experience even better. enjoy Be A Proud American Peace/Love

I once knew a woman named Gloria. She was a terrible cook. So I was hoping for the best coming here. After going inside, it turns out Gloria must be from El Salvador. The vibe totally feels South America. I went for the pupusas...revuelta and spinach & cheese. Yum! Tasty. I recommend throwing the curtido on top and pour all the sauce over everything. Enjoy.

I live a block away and it took me about a year to stop in. I've missed out so much! I searched Yelp looking for a un plato de pescado and there are several on the menu. House Special Pescado in a garlic sauce sounded like a winner. Definitely the protein I wanted. I think I'll try the Seven Seas Soup with Fish, Shrimp, Crab Legs, Octopus, Calamari, and Scallops later this week!

The service was very friendly & walked the perfect balance of letting us be to chat & catch up with our friend group while still checking in on us. The vibe is definitely cute li'l hole-in-the-wall spot. The chicken tostada was yummy, very fresh, & frankly HUGE for something listed under the appetizer section! And the tajin-rimmed margarita was a tasty little treat. I'm very glad we stumbled upon this place. I've officially added it to my "tasty approved" list!

I dined in here a while ago and their Salvadoran breakfast and it hit the spot. I also ordered delivery from them and got their pupusas which could use a little bit of seasoning because sometimes when I've gotten it, it was a little bland. Their soup was also good!

Gloria's Mexican Food is an absolute gem! The food is always fresh, flavorful, and made with love--you can truly taste the authenticity in every bite. The portions are generous, the prices are fair, and the service is consistently friendly and welcoming. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down to enjoy a full meal, Gloria's never disappoints. Hands down one of my favorite spots for great Mexican food. Highly recommend! Ps William is the absolute best thank you sir

The service is wonderful. Everyone we encountered was so nice. The food is very good. It's a mix of Mexican and Salvadoran food. Street parking only & it's located on Venice so parking can be tough depending on the time of the day.

Gloria's Cafe is a cozy spot for authentic Salvadoran comfort food. The Seven Seas soup is perfect for warming up--rich, flavorful, and satisfying. For a true taste of tradition, the Plato Típico is a standout. It offers a generous variety, including a perfectly cooked pupusa, crispy yuca frita, savory chicharrón, tangy curtido, sweet plátanos fritos, and classic rice and beans. The portions are filling, the flavors feel homemade, and the menu is a great introduction to Salvadoran cuisine. A welcoming place for a hearty, comforting meal. Plus the owner William is amazing person.

Food: I ordered Mexican food so this review is about that - enchiladas and pinto beans (refried), rice and margaritas. The lemon margarita was OK - had a pitcher, wasn't too strong, but light and refreshing (though would recommend something else if you're looking for a buzz). The food came out somewhat quickly and I thought it tasted good/I enjoyed what I had. Basically what you'd expect. Didn't really have any complaints. The chips and salsa were fine as well. Apparently Guy Fieri had been there, some items are marked with "food network" logo. Service: Fast and attentive. No complaints. Ambiance: It's a little on the smaller side but still has a few comfortable booth and fine for what it is. Good casual dining and still comfortable. I'd be back for sure, it is a nice little hole in the wall with decent food that is worth a stop.

Was in the area and in the mood for some good Latin food. I'm so glad I decided to check out Gloria's. I experienced delicious food and great customer service. I wasn't sure what I wanted so I got platter that offered variety Everything came out piping hot. The pork was tender and well season and the papusa was yummy. I would return.

I love my delicious pupusas! My husband isn't a pupusa fan, but he loves their enchiladas and other Mexican & Salvadorian dishes. Everything here is always fresh and flavorful! William is super nice and makes everyone feel welcome, no matter how busy he is. Definitely recommend this place! Sinnia and Randy Wellington

If you are looking for a place that gives you the real deal, this is it! The food is amazing, the employees are amazing, the atmosphere is on point!

Amazing soup! I highly recommend it to anyone who loves rich, flavorful, and comforting food. The broth was perfectly seasoned, full of depth, and so satisfying with every sip.

I use to love Gloria's but it has gone downhill post pandemic. The prices are high for what you get. They nickel and dime you for everything. They charge for chips, salsa & tortillas. $25 fajitas and you only get 2 tortillas and a spoonful of watered down guacamole.

It's taken me a minute to post this review as life has kept me extremely busy but I had to leave review about my last lunch visit. I now work and the area and was excited to go back after visiting a couple of times for dinner. I don't know what specifically happened during this lunch visit but I believe some cleaning supply touched the food packaging. It was either my chips or beans that tasted like Faboloso. When I called back to let them know, the lunch worker who checked me out apologized and said to call back at 3pm to speak to the manager or owner. I called back and the "manager or owner " downplayed my whole experience and said they do not have cleaning supplies near food. Whatever the case was, I know my food was tainted and he didn't care.

Gloria's continues to serve with excellent service and the most delicious, authentic Mexican and Salvadoran food. I've brought multiple friends here and all have enjoyed the laidback atmosphere and quality food. I will continue to come back! Thank you, William!

I think everything about this place is perfect. It's a small and casual Latin-style restaurant with a very friendly and attentive staff, and plenty of satisfying dishes. I recommend trying anything off the Gloria's specialties menu, especially the Carnitas Plate. The cuisine is primarily Salvadoran, but they also have a menu specifically for Mexican dishes. When I last went there, they had a great happy hour (all day on Fridays). You can't go wrong with this place; there will be something for everyone. I have been back many times, and it never disappoints. They've definitely won a loyal customer.

Don't walk ...run to this local Culver City institution..you won't be disappointed. My aunt and I went for lunch over the weekend and couldn't wait to try this spot that was also featured on the Food Network Our server Jose was so nice and walked us through their robust menu of some of the top hits for first visitors to try We settled on the signature house beef stew and Salvadorian platter. Both came with generous portions and the food was flavorful and definitely tasted home made. Jose also kept refilling our tortilla chip basket and different house salsas for us to try I can't wait to go back to try their seafood dishes that have kept this local find busy for almost 30 years! Go go go and ask for Jose

Enjoy this spot and appreciate that there is a kitchen for small bites! In addition to coffee/beverages. Bummed to hear that they have cut their hours.

Decent food but a bit pricey in my opinion. Then again it's LA and I was only visiting.

The owner is the most kindest senor I have ever encountered! He went above and beyond to make my family's Christmas meal a special one!! Thank you senor and dios lo bendiga para siempre!

Everything, from service to food to ambience. One of the best in Salvadorian/Mexican Restaurants in WLA!!

We loved Gloria's! Everything was delicious and so glad we stumbled on this place. The carne asada plate was unreal, the taquitos were delicious, and the chicken & cheese pupusas were sooo yummy. Hoping to be back soon!

AMAZING ! Good portions and great flavors, lovely decorations on the inside and staff are friendly. One of my favorite place

Delicious fresh food. Friendly casual place. Terrific drinks. Love this place. Affordable yummy meals.

Been coming here for years and the food, the service, and the owners are amazing! They treat you like family and always go out of their way to make you feel welcomed and appreciated! The food is off the charts incredible and the portions are made for a big appetite! I would % recommend this restaurant to anyone! The Bistec Encebollado is my favorite!

Overhyped. Not accommodating. They sell beans yet can't assemble a bean taco. Offered me a potato taco. Foolish. Won't be back.

This place is the best! My boyfriend and I tried it on a whim and were very happy with what we found. Reasonably prices and healthy portions. All day happy hour on Friday's and decent taco Tuesday special. I mentioned I was vegan and the next time I was in they added a potato taco to the menu. Really extremely kind and attentive staff. Their hot sauce is also SO GOOD, my boyfriend and I each bought a bottle of it and use it constantly. Cannot recommend this place enough.

Love everything here. Mole Chilaquiles and Tacos are a must. Service is quick and friendly. Really hard to find parking here though.

We love Gloria's. The ambience is not what you come for! Service is very good and staff is super nice and friendly. We love the fundido and it is addictive! Guacamole is tangy and delicious. Chips are okay. The enchiladas,tacos, and the carnitas are to die for. Margaritas are refreshing and strong. We will definitely be back!

We buy Salvadoran tamales every holidays! Unlike other tamales they are moist chicken or pork tamales. Mexican tamales are too dry for us.

Not the best nor the worst pupusas I've had. The items I had other than pupusas were really good such as the yuca con chicharon. The pupusas themselves are super doughy and not enough filling.

WOW!!!! I'm absolutely blown away about how delicious this place is. Was looking for a good spot for Papusas and this place hit the spot. Easily a 5/5 spot. All of the staff was extremely friendly. I'm coming back next week.

The tamales are amazing. They are different and wrapped with banana leaves. The service is great.

The food was delicious. I ordered the popusa plate and let me tell you, the portions were large enough for two people. Everything I had was fresh and flavorful. I also had a michelada. This was a great find.

Everything was great, food, service, and price. Plus it is a nice atmosphere. Definitely worth going

Delicious food!! The service is amazing. Fantastic place to eat with your family and friends. Their is nothing but great

Food was great, service was excellent, and what beats sitting outside on a nice LA afternoon? Warning: they only give you three taquitos in the appetizer, but you will want more.

Pork in pupusa was rancid. Not very good. I had ordered Mexican food before and it was good.

Gloria's is a cute spot! Snuggled on Venice blvd in LA, the food here is full of flavor. The staff were pleasant and attentive. I can't wait to go back and try a few more Salvadoran food! There were so many yummy options to choose from. Definitely try the signature Carne Adobaba. Juicy, tender, melt in your mouth good!

Small restaurant that packs a punch. Great service and the seafood soup was delicious! If you're in the area I recommend stopping by.

Guys this place is legit! I'm not kidding! Chicharrón was crispy on the outside and super tender inside. Meat full of flavor, salted perfectly. Yucca is moist and creamy. Not dry. And the side of pickled cabbage spiciness was just right to balance the pork and yucca. Pupusas are delicious. Light and not overly stuffed with cheese. Not greasy and chewy. A real treat! Just disappointed that they don't have my favorite Panes con pollo. Maybe in the future.

Food is pretty good here. But paying $18.95 for a very thin chicken steak does not justify the price point. LA Caravana in Pasadena much better and bigger portions

Obsessed. Ever since we saw this restaurant featured in Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive Ins and Dives, Gloria's has satiated our comfort food cravings at this local neighborhood spot. We usually get the 7 Seas Soup or the Carne Adobada. We're never disappointed by the depth of flavor and hospitable staff. The decor is quaint and feels like home - especially if you sit in the wooden booths where you can enjoy privacy with your family and friends. Gloria makes special guest appearances too - which is always a treat. She has a very welcoming presence.

Gloria's is one of my favorite places in LA. I kid you not I've been here like over a dozen times in 2024 already haha. I just love it here. The food is fantastic definitely try the pupusas, the chicken steak if you're looking for a healthier option, and you can't go wrong with a margarita. I love everyone that works here. They all treat me like family and I just love how warm and fuzzy it feels. Reminds me of home. On any given night Gloria's can either be slammed or just busy enough but never dead. Thankfully their service is super quick!

Our family loves coming here for a great dinner experience. The customer service is great. They have great Happy hour specials and more than anything the food is really good.

Thanks to Covid, we've been watching a lot of Food Network. DDD was in our neighborhood so of course we have to try it. We've enjoyed several meals here. Every so often something was missing. Today we received the WORST customer service possible. - Called in an order at 2:08pm - Mrs. Gloria said that it'd be 20 minutes - We arrived at 2:21pm and let her know we were there. We waited in the car. Another 20 minutes go by and Mrs. G tells my bf that it'll be another 10 minutes. Very confused as to why she'd say that our food would be ready in 20 minutes to begin with. - Food was ready at 3pm - we drove home hungry and looking forward to our meal. - unfortunately my bfs meal was a total mistake. He ordered chicken fajitas well done. No beans. No dairy. He received a burrito with beans. That's all that he needed to see yo know that he could not eat that. - called Gloria's to let them know of the mistake and the gentleman on the phone apologized and said he'd ask Mrs. G what happened. Excuse me? I just told you what happened. You messed up the order. I just need you to correct it please. The reason I'm only giving Gloria's 4 stars is because of the lack of concern with Covid. As the owner, Mrs. G is responsible for setting an example. If Mrs. G can't wear a face mask properly, what else is being done incorrectly. *** My immunity is compromised due to chemo and this lack of proper face wear lets me know that I'm not safe coming to this establishment. To be clear the food has been good but when it's not what you ordered it makes the whole experience frustrating.